The Department may acquire a conservation easement or a fee simple or other interest in any land described under § 5-1502 of this subtitle. The Department shall establish criteria for acquisition of conservation easements and of fee simple and other interests in lands, including a priority system that considers: The ecological uniqueness of the land; The presence of rare, threatened, or endangered plants or animals or diverse communities of plants or animals; The threat to the land by development; Whether the land is in the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area; Whether development of the land will adversely impact water quality or unique natural habitat; Whether a natural area has been designated by the State or submitted by a county for designation as an area of critical State concern under § 5-611 of the State Finance and Procurement Article; and Whether the land is forestland, nontidal wetlands, or tidal wetlands. The Department annually shall consult with the counties of the State: For suggested acquisition of lands; and To coordinate the acquisition projects under this subtitle.