# Natural Resources (GNR)

## Title 5. Forests and Parks

### Subtitle 9A. Rural Legacy Program

#### Section 5-9A-02

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) "Application" means an application to the Rural Legacy Board to designate a Rural Legacy Area.

(c) "Board" means the Rural Legacy Board.

(d) "BPW" means the Maryland State Board of Public Works.

(e) "Grant agreement" means an agreement between the Board and a sponsor to implement a Rural Legacy Plan in a designated Rural Legacy Area.

(f) "Land trust" means a qualified conservation organization that:

  (1) Is a qualified organization under Sec. 170(h)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and regulations adopted under Sec. 170(h)(3); and

  (2) Has executed a cooperative agreement with the Maryland Environmental Trust.

(g) "Priority funding area" means an area designated as a priority funding area under Sec. 5-7B-02 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(h) "Program" means the Rural Legacy Program established by this subtitle.

(i) "Rural Legacy Area" means a region within or outside a metropolitan area designated by the Board as rich in a multitude of agricultural, forestry, natural, and cultural resources.

(j) "Rural Legacy Plan" means a plan accepted by the Board for acquisition of easements and fee interests in Rural Legacy Areas.

(k) "Sponsor" means a local government, group of local governments, or a land trust.

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Md. Code Ann., Nat. Res. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)