<subtitle num="01" heading="Office of the Secretary"> <chapter num="01" heading="Procedural Regulations"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Contested case” means a proceeding before the Department as provided under the Administrative Procedure Act, State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Secretary” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If a unit of the Department is authorized to conduct hearings, the head of that unit or the unit head's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Procedural Regulations — Promulgation of Regulations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless otherwise designated by statute, these procedures will be followed with respect to the promulgation of all regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Regulation Adoption and Declaratory Rulings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Secretary of the Department. The Secretary of Agriculture is responsible for adopting the regulations of the Department. He shall review, and approve, disapprove, or revise the regulations of all units within the jurisdiction of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Adoption of Regulations. New, amended, revised, or repealed regulations shall be proposed and adopted on a regular or emergency basis, as prescribed by the State Documents Law and the Administrative Procedures Act.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Petition for the Adoption of Regulations.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Who May File. Any interested person may file a petition with the Secretary, requesting the promulgation, amendment, or repeal of any regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Form. The petition shall be in writing and shall contain a brief statement of the regulation, or reference to the regulation, amendment, or repeal which is sought, and a statement of any proposed amendment. The petition should contain a brief statement of reasons in support of the proposed regulation or change and shall contain the name, address, and telephone number of the petitioner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Submission, Consideration, and Disposition. The petition shall be filed with the Secretary for his consideration and disposition. The Secretary shall either deny the petition in writing, stating the reasons for his denial, or initiate appropriate regulation-making procedures according to his decision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Petition for Declaratory Ruling.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Who May File. Any interested person may file with the Secretary a petition for a declaratory ruling with respect to the applicability to any person, corporation, property, or statement of facts of any statute or Departmental regulation pertaining to the Department's activities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Form. The petition shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Be in writing:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Contain a detailed statement of the facts which are applicable to the regulation or statute in question;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Pose the question of whether, and in what manner, the stated regulation or statute applies to the facts contained in the petition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Contain the name, address, and telephone number of the petitioner; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Contain a statement by the petitioner, under oath, that the facts contained in the petition are true to the best of his knowledge, information, and belief.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Submission, Consideration, and Disposition. The petition shall be filed with the Secretary for his consideration and disposition. The Secretary shall consider the petition and may issue the declaratory ruling requested. The Secretary shall notify the petitioner in writing of whatever action he may decide to take, stating the reasons for his decision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The Secretary shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Set the date and place of all hearings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Give notice as provided here;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Preside at all hearings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Receive all views and data, either written or oral, pertaining to proposed action of the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Procedural Regulations — Contested Cases."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notice of Agency Action.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In a contested case, the Department shall give reasonable notice of the agency's action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The notice shall state:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The facts that are asserted or if they cannot be stated in detail when the notice is given, the issues that are involved;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The pertinent statutory and regulatory sections under which the Department is taking its action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The sanction proposed or potential penalty, if any, as a result of the Department's action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The opportunity of the recipient of the notice to request a hearing, specifying:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>What, if anything, the person shall do to receive a hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>All relevant time requirements; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The direct consequences, sanction, or potential penalty, if any, of the recipient's failure to exercise in a timely manner the opportunity for a hearing or, if a hearing is scheduled, the recipient's failure to appear at that hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Request for Hearing.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person may request a hearing by mailing or delivering a clear written request in the manner and within the time frame specified in the Notice of Agency Action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A request for hearing shall be considered filed on the date that the request is actually received in any office of the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Default.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department may issue a default order if:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The recipient of the notice fails to exercise in a timely manner the opportunity for a hearing; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A hearing has been scheduled, and the recipient fails to appear at that hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>On motion filed within 15 days after the date of the default order, the Department may, on good cause shown, vacate or modify the default order and set the case in for further proceedings as appropriate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department may issue a default decision and order, and impose the proposed sanction if:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The recipient fails to file a motion within the time frame specified in §C(2) of this regulation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The motion is denied.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Hearings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall preside as hearing officer at all hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Unless otherwise specified by law, the Department shall notify all parties to a contested hearing at least 10 days before the scheduled hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any party to a hearing may be represented by counsel. The party or his counsel shall notify the hearing officer of the name, address, and telephone number of the counsel at least 5 days before the date of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Before the hearing and upon the specific request, in writing, of any party, or his counsel, the hearing officer may furnish at his office, for inspection or copying, any documents or other material relating to the matter at issue, or mail copies of the material upon request to the party. The cost shall be borne by the requesting party.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The hearing officer may provide a stenographer or furnish an electric transcription device for any hearing. Any party may request a copy of the proceedings of the hearing at his own expense.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>At any contested hearing, a representative of the Department or other moving party shall present the case for the party first, and the other party or parties, or counsel for them, may cross-examine each witness for the Department or other moving party. The other party or parties to the hearing shall thereafter present evidence, subject to cross-examination. The parties and the Department shall be permitted to present additional evidence at any time during the hearing, and shall be permitted to present oral arguments at the close of all the evidence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The hearing officer, at his discretion, may postpone the hearing for any reason upon request of any party, his counsel, or Department official.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Failure to appear at the hearing at the time and place designated in the notice, or designated by the hearing officer in the event of postponement, shall be deemed a default on the part of any party, other than the hearing officer, and the hearing officer may take the action set forth in the notice without further hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Within 30 days after the hearing record is closed, the hearing officer shall prepare a written decision and mail it to the last known address of each party. The 30-day period provided in this subsection is directory and no penalty shall incur if this time limitation is not satisfied. The mailing date of the hearing officer’s decision to a party constitutes notice of the decision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Review by the Secretary.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided by law, a person aggrieved by a decision of a position or unit within the Department after a contested case hearing or default decision that is subject to judicial review under the Administrative Procedure Act, may file a written statement with the Secretary requesting review of that decision setting forth the nature of the complaint and the relevant facts and argument.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The aggrieved person shall file the written statement with the Secretary within 30 days from either the date of the written decision issued under §D(9) of this regulation or any default decision. The time restrictions imposed by this subsection is mandatory and any written statement filed beyond 30 days may not be considered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Secretary may require the aggrieved person to pay the costs of compiling the record of the decision to be reviewed, including the cost to transcribe testimony, if any.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Within 90 days after receiving the complete record, the Secretary shall investigate any claim made in the written statement, review the record, issue a decision in writing, and send a copy to each party. The 90-day period provided in this subsection is not mandatory; however, any delay beyond the 90-day period operates as an automatic denial by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The Secretary may affirm, reverse, or modify any written decision issued by any position or unit within the Department, including any default decision. The decision of the Secretary shall be the final agency decision or action for purposes of judicial review under the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A party aggrieved by the final decision of the Secretary may file a petition for judicial review with the appropriate circuit court as required by the Maryland Rules of Civil Procedure.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Administrative Procedure Act. In addition to the foregoing regulations, the Administrative Procedure Act in the State Government Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, shall govern the practice and procedure in all hearings and appeals.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-103; State Government Article, §10-206; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May, 1967</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended as an emergency provision effective April 4, 1978 (5:8 Md. R. 588); adopted permanently effective July 14, 1978 (5:14 Md. R. 1138)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02D, E adopted as an emergency provision effective December 19, 1977 (4:27 Md. R. 2099); adopted permanently effective April 7, 1978 (5:7 Md. R. 524)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective August 15, 2006 (33:18 Md. R. 1502); revised permanently effective December 18, 2006 (33:25 Md. R. 1952)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective June 6, 2016 (43:11 Md. R. 635)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Distribution of Funds for the Maintenance of Drainage Systems for Agricultural Land"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Cost Sharing."> <text>The Secretary of Agriculture may provide up to 50 percent of the cost necessary to maintain drainage outlet systems for the draining of agricultural land constructed pursuant to Article 25, §§52—59 (Public Drainage Associations) and §§169—218 (Public Watershed Associations), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Requirements for Application for Cost Sharing."> <text>An association wishing to be considered for cost sharing pursuant to this chapter shall make written application to the Secretary as provided by the Department and shall conform to the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each association shall be active with a currently elected board of managers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Each association shall have adopted and implemented an operations and maintenance program which provides for the regular maintenance of that association's drainage outlet systems.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Each association, upon application for assistance, shall submit an operations and maintenance plan for the maintenance of drainage outlet systems, for which cost sharing is requested. This plan shall include cost estimates and shall have been approved by the local soil conservation district in the year of application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Each association shall submit a written commitment indicating the source of the funds to be matched.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Each association shall have the continuing duty to keep all drainage improvements in good repair.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Criteria for Allocation of Cost Sharing Funds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Cost sharing for the maintenance of drainage outlet systems for agricultural land will be limited to the control of vegetation and removal of channel obstructions as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Control of vegetation will be limited to control of herbaceous growth or removal of shrubs or small trees which do not exceed 4 inches in diameter at breast height.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Movement of earth will be limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Cleaning of sediment traps or construction of sediment traps as is considered necessary by the soil conservation district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Removal of material which does not change the original design of the channel, or constitute a major channel reconstruction or realignment. The original design shall be maintained and removal of material may not exceed 6 inches below the original design grade of the channel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Placement of soil shall be as specified by the soil conservation district.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Secretary may provide funds for use in each county based on the mileage of ditches in each county applied for by associations and approved by districts as compared to the total mileage applied for in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Associations which have received funds in prior years will receive a lower priority for cost sharing purposes than those which have not. A higher priority may be given where other funds, above the required 50 percent, are available from other sources such as county cost sharing funds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>In establishing priorities for the purpose of cost sharing for drainage outlet systems, the Secretary may consider other criteria which will promote the control of vegetation, the removal of channel obstructions, and debris from drainage outlet systems for the draining of agricultural land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Secretary may provide funds through a soil conservation district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Funds are allocated for use within 12 months of the date made available to the association. The association will verify to the Secretary the expenditure of State funds and the amount of local matching funds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Work for which funds are provided shall be verified by the soil conservation district for compliance with the district approved operations and maintenance plan. Any change from the plan must be approved by the soil conservation district.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103 and 8-602, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 6, 1978 (5:20 Md. R. 1501)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .02C and .03A, B amended effective February 15, 1982 (9:3 Md. R. 222)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03E-G adopted effective February 15, 1982 (9:3 Md. R. 222)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Approval of the Secretary of Agriculture for the Giving Away of Live Animals as Prizes"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Permission of the Secretary."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary of Agriculture is responsible for approving the giving away of a live animal (vertebrate) in the following cases when given:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>As a prize or an inducement to enter a contest, game, or other competition; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>As an inducement to enter a place of amusement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>As an incentive to enter into a business agreement when an animal is offered for the purpose of attracting trade.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Approval for giving away a live animal is not required when the animal is given away:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>As an agricultural project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For a conservation purpose;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For slaughter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Requests for Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Requests for approval to give an animal away shall be submitted in writing to the Secretary and shall provide details which clearly describe the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant's efforts to provide the animal with a sanitary environment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The type of food the animal will be provided and at what intervals the animal will be fed and, when appropriate, watered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>What effort the applicant shall make to ensure that an animal is kept healthy and in good condition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The locations and dates where the giveaway is to occur, for example, the location of the fair and when the fair will take place; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>When appropriate, a description of the container that the recipient will be provided to transport the animal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless the applicant provides all of the details required under this regulation, the Secretary shall deny the request.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Approval of Requests."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In deciding whether to give an applicant permission to give an animal away, the Secretary will judge each application on a case-by-case basis depending on the needs of each animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>To receive the Secretary's approval of the request to give away live animals, the applicant shall comply with the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant shall treat humanely all animals to be given away;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicant may not give an animal to a person who does not want it;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The applicant shall take steps to ensure that the animal is kept healthy and in good condition, including but not limited to the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Provide the animal with a sanitary environment, for example, that the container holding the animal is cleaned regularly and maintained in a sanitary condition,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>When appropriate, provide potable water to the animal, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Feed the animal nutritious food in sufficient quantities;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The applicant may not give away an animal that is not in good health;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The applicant shall inform the recipient of an animal that the applicant will care for the animal until the recipient leaves the event in which the giveaway is occurring, for example, the fair;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The applicant shall give the recipient or winner a coupon which may be used to redeem the animal at the time the recipient or winner departs from the event, for example, the fair;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>For each recipient of an animal, the applicant shall provide written instructions on how to care for the animal and, when appropriate, a suitable container to transport the animal; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The applicant shall permit the Secretary or the Secretary's agent to examine an animal that is to be given away.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the Secretary approves the giving away of an animal, the approval shall be in writing and retained on the premises where the animal is to be given away.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Violations.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §D(2) of this regulation, if a person violates the terms of an approval, or provides inaccurate information to the Secretary, an approval may be revoked after a hearing as provided by regulations of the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department may summarily suspend its approval if it finds that the safety or welfare of an animal under the applicant's care requires emergency action and promptly gives the applicant:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Written notice of the suspension, the finding, and the reasons that support the finding; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An opportunity to be heard.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Criminal Law Article, §10-610, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 15, 1979 (6:12 Md. R. 1052)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective July 6, 1992 (19:13 Md. R. 1203); January 2, 1994 (20:26 Md. R. 2028); August 12, 1996 (23:16 Md. R. 1176)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective August 12, 1996 (23:16 Md. R. 1176)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Public Information Act Requests"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter sets out procedures under the Public Information Act for filing and processing requests to the Department of Agriculture for the inspection and copying of public records of the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Policy."> <text>It is the policy of the Department to facilitate access to the public records of the Department, when access is allowed by law, by minimizing costs and time delays to applicants.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Act” means the Public Information Act, General Provisions Article, §§4-101—4-601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Applicant” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(b), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Board” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Copy” means any form of reproduction using a photocopying machine or other reproduction technology, including a paper copy, an electronic copy, a printout, or an image.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Custodian” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(d), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Indigent” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-206(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Metadata” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-205(a), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Official custodian” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(f), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“PIA Coordinator” means the Department employee who is responsible for accepting requests for public records.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Public Access Ombudsman” means the official appointed under General Provisions Article, Title 4, Subtitle 1B, to resolve disputes under the Act.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Public record” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(j), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Reasonable fee” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-206(a)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Working day” means a day other than Saturday, Sunday, or a State holiday.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Secretary as Official Custodian."> <text>Unless otherwise provided by law, the Secretary is the official custodian of the public records of the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Who May Request Public Records."> <text>Any person may request to inspect or copy public records of the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Necessity for Written Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the custodian shall make public records of the Department available for inspection by an applicant without demanding a written request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The custodian shall require a written request if the custodian reasonably believes that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Act or any other law may prevent the disclosure of one or more public records to the applicant; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A written request will materially assist the Department in responding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Copies. If the applicant requests one or more copies of any public records of the Department, the custodian may require a written request.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Contents of Written Request."> <text>A written request shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Contain the applicant’s name and address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Be signed by the applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Reasonably identify, by brief description, the public record sought.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Addressee."> <text>A request to inspect or copy a public record of the Department shall be addressed to the custodian of the record. If the custodian is unknown, the request may be addressed to the Secretary or the PIA Coordinator.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Response to Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Custodian’s Initial Responsibilities.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the custodian decides to grant a request for inspection, the custodian shall produce the public record for inspection:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Immediately; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Within a reasonable time period, not to exceed 30 days after the date of the request, if that period is needed to retrieve the public record and conduct any necessary review.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the custodian reasonably believes that it will take more than 10 working days to produce the record, the custodian shall indicate in writing or by electronic mail within 10 working days after receipt of the request:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The amount of time that the custodian anticipates it will take to produce the public record;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An estimate of the range of fees that may be charged to comply with the request for public records; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The reason why it will take more than 10 working days to produce the records.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the custodian decides to deny a request for inspection, the custodian shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Deny the request within 30 days after the request; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Immediately notify the applicant of the denial.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a request is denied, the custodian shall provide the applicant, at the time of the denial or within 10 working days, a written statement that gives:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The reason for denial, including, for records denied under General Provisions Article, §4-343, Annotated Code of Maryland, a brief explanation of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Why denial is necessary; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Why the harm from disclosure of the public record would be greater than the public interest in providing access to the information in the public record such that disclosure of the public record would be contrary to the public interest;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The legal authority for the denial;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Without disclosing the protected information, a brief description of the undisclosed records that will enable the applicant to assess the applicability of the legal authority for the denial; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Notice of the remedies available for review of the denial.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If a requested public record is not in the custody or control of the person to whom application is made, that person shall, within 10 working days after receipt of the request, notify the applicant:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That the person does not have custody or control of the requested public record; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the person knows, of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the custodian of the public record; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The location or possible location of the public record.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Any time limit imposed by §§A—C of this regulation may be extended:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>With the consent of the applicant, for an additional period of up to 30 days; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the period of time during which a dispute initiated by the applicant is pending before the Public Access Ombudsman.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Notice to and Consideration of Views of Person Potentially Affected by Disclosure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless prohibited by law, the custodian may provide notice of a request for inspection or copying of any public record of the Department to any person, who in the judgment of the custodian, could be adversely affected by disclosure of that public record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The custodian may consider the views of the potentially affected person before deciding whether to disclose the public record to the applicant.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Electronic Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §§C and D of this regulation, the custodian shall provide an applicant with a copy of the public record in a searchable and analyzable electronic format if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The public record is in a searchable and analyzable electronic format;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicant requests a copy of the public record in a searchable and analyzable electronic format; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The custodian is able to provide a copy of the public record, in whole or in part, in a searchable and analyzable electronic format that does not disclose information that is exempt from disclosure under the Act.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The custodian shall provide a portion of the public record in a searchable and analyzable electronic format if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Requested by the applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The custodian is able to do so by using the existing functions of the database or software program that contains the searchable and analyzable data.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The custodian is not required to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Create or reconstruct a public record in an electronic format if the public record is not available in an electronic format; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Release an electronic record in a format that would jeopardize or compromise the security or integrity of the original record or of any proprietary software in which the record is maintained.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The custodian may remove metadata from an electronic document before providing the electronic record to an applicant by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Using a software program or function; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Converting the electronic record into a different searchable and analyzable format.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Public Record Destroyed or Lost."> <text>If the custodian knows that a requested public record has been destroyed or lost, the custodian shall promptly:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notify the applicant that the public record is not available; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Explain the reasons why the public record cannot be produced.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Review of Denial."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the custodian denies a request to inspect or copy a public record of the Department, the applicant may file an action for judicial enforcement under General Provisions Article, §4-362, Annotated Code of Maryland, without pursuing the remedies set forth in §§B and C of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the custodian charges a fee of more than $350 under Regulation .15 of this chapter, the applicant may, within 90 days after the date the fee is imposed, file a written complaint with the Board under General Provisions Article, §4-1A-05(a), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The applicant and the custodian each may contact the Public Access Ombudsman to resolve, under General Provisions Article, Title 4, Subtitle 1B, Annotated Code of Maryland, a dispute relating to requests for public records.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Disclosure Against Public Interest."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Denial Pending Court Order.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If, in the opinion of the Secretary, disclosure of a public record of the Department otherwise subject to disclosure under the Act would do substantial injury to the public interest, the Secretary may temporarily deny the request and seek a court order allowing continued nondisclosure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A temporary denial shall be in writing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Circuit Court Review.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within 10 working days after the denial, the Secretary shall apply to the appropriate circuit court for an order permitting continued denial or restriction of access.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Notice of the Secretary’s complaint shall be served on the applicant in the manner provided for service of process by the Maryland Rules.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The fee schedule for copying and certifying copies of public records of the Department is as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Copies.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The fee for each copy made by a standard printer or photocopying or scanning machine with the Department is 25 cents per page.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The fee for each copy made otherwise shall be based on the actual cost of reproduction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Certification of Copies. If a person requests that a copy of a public record be certified as a true copy, an additional fee of $1 per page (or if appropriate, per item) shall be charged.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Minimum Fee. No charge will be made if the total fee is $10 or less.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notwithstanding §A of this regulation, if the fee for copies or certified copies of any public record of the Department is specifically set by a law other than the Act or this regulation, the custodian shall charge the prescribed fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the custodian cannot copy a public record within the Department, the custodian shall make arrangements for the prompt reproduction of the record at public or private facilities outside the Department. The custodian shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Collect from the applicant a fee to cover the actual cost of reproduction; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Direct the applicant to pay the cost of reproduction directly to the facility making the copy.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Before copying a public record of the Department, the custodian shall estimate the cost of reproduction and either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtain the agreement of the applicant to pay the cost; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Require prepayment of all or a portion of the cost.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Search and Preparation Fee.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §F of this regulation, the custodian may charge a reasonable fee for time that an official employee of the Department spends:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>To search for requested public records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Review requested public records for inspection and copying; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>To prepare public records for inspection and copying.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The custodian shall determine the fee under §E(1) of this regulation by multiplying the employee’s salary, prorated to an hourly basis, by the actual time attributable to the search for, review of, and preparation of public records for inspection and copying.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The custodian may not charge a fee under §E of this regulation for the first 2 hours spent searching for and preparing a public record for inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Waiver or Reduction of Fee.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The official custodian may waive or reduce any fee set under this regulation if:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The applicant requests a waiver; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Either:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The custodian determines that the waiver or reduction is in the public interest; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The applicant is indigent and files an affidavit verifying the facts that support a claim of indigency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In determining whether a fee is in the public interest, the custodian shall consider, among other relevant factors, the ability of the applicant to pay the fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>If the applicant requests that copies of a public record be mailed or delivered to the applicant or to a third party, the custodian may charge the applicant for the cost of postage or delivery.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Time and Place of Inspection."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An applicant may inspect any public record of the Department that the applicant is entitled to inspect during the normal working hours of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The inspection shall occur where the public record is located, unless the custodian, after taking into account the applicant’s express wish, determines that another place is more suitable and convenient.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-103; General Provisions Article, §§4-101—4-601; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: August 17, 1981 (8:16 Md. R. 1367)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.08, .10—.16 amended effective April 4, 1988 (15:7 Md. R. 852)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17 adopted effective May 6, 1985 (12:9 Md. R. 814)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.17 repealed and new Regulations .01—.16 adopted effective February 10, 2020 (47:3 Md. R. 172)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Cost Sharing — Water Pollution Control Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>This chapter explains the State's cost sharing program to assist eligible applicants in implementing certain agricultural practices which will lessen water pollution caused by nutrients, sediment, animal wastes, or agricultural chemicals. Under this program, grants are made to farmers for the primary purpose of conserving soil and water resources and for protecting or restoring the environment for the public benefit.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Best management practice” means a conservation or pollution control practice that manages soil loss due to farming practices or manages animal wastes or agricultural chemicals so as to minimize movement into the surface waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“County Soil Survey” means a report developed by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service, for each county which identifies soil types.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Critical condition” means a condition on land where there is or there may be a high potential for the movement of pollutants from nutrients, sediment, animal wastes, or agricultural chemicals into the waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“District” means a soil conservation district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Eligible cost” means a capital expenditure for installing, purchasing, or constructing a best management practice or fixed natural filter practice, including, but not limited to, the cost of pollution control equipment, animal waste facilities, water control structures, diversion facilities, sediment basins or grade stabilization structures, establishing permanent vegetative cover, or a contour, strip-cropping, terrace, or conservation tillage system of farming. It does not include the cost of land or interests in land, or the costs of operating or maintaining best management practices.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Fixed natural filter practice” means one of the following practices:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The planting of riparian forest buffers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The planting of riparian herbaceous cover;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Tree plantings that are:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>On agricultural land; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Outside a riparian buffer;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Wetland restoration; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Pasture management, including rotational grazing systems such as livestock fencing and watering systems implemented as part of the conversion of cropland to pasture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Geographic area” means a watershed or major portion of a watershed which contains or has a high potential for containing priority areas.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Improved conservation benefit” means an improvement in the condition of the soil, water, or other such natural resource of the State, and includes, among other beneficial effects, improved water quality, improved soil health, reduced soil loss, and restored wetlands.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Natural resource concern” means the expected degradation of the soil, water, or other resource base to the extent that the sustainability or intended use of the resource is impaired, and includes, among other concerns, soil erosion, soil quality degradation, water quality degradation, and excess water.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Nutrient management plan” means a plan prepared by a State-certified nutrient management consultant to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal waste, fertilizer, biosolids, sewage sludge, or other plant nutrients in order to prevent pollution and to maintain the productivity of the soil. Requirements for plan content, recommendations, maintenance, updates, and record keeping are further defined under COMAR 15.20.08.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, partnership, corporation, trust, or other business enterprise which as an owner, landlord, or tenant, participates in the operation of a farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Pooling agreement” means a written agreement between persons approved by the Secretary, to perform best management practices and which is intended to solve a mutual pollution problem on different farms.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Priority area” means an area where a critical condition exists.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Project” means a project to prevent or control agriculturally related nonpoint source water pollution by establishing best management practices on a farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Waters of the State” means both surface and underground waters within the boundaries of the State subject to its jurisdiction, including that portion of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundaries of the State, the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, and all ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, public ditches, tax ditches, and public drainage systems within the State, other than those designed and used to collect, convey, or dispose of sanitary sewage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Program Eligibility — Priority and Geographic Areas for Water Pollution Control."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who operates a farm in a priority area as designated in this regulation is eligible to apply for financial assistance for one or more projects under the State's cost share program for water pollution control.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The following geographic areas within this State are identified by watershed name and watershed segment number because they are likely to contain priority areas for water pollution control:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The following watersheds in the Middle Potomac River Basin:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Double Pipe Creek (02-14-03-04);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Upper Monacacy River (02-14-03-03);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Catoctin Creek (02-14-03-05);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Lower Monacacy River (02-14-03-02);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Direct drainage to the Potomac River between the Monocacy and Shenandoah Rivers (02-14-03-01);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The following watersheds in the Upper Potomac River Basin:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Antietam Creek (02-14-05-02);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Conococheague Creek (02-12-05-04);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Seneca Creek Watershed in the Potomac River Washington Metro Area (02-14-02-08);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Deer Creek Watershed in the Lower Susquehanna River Basin (02-12-02-02);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The Sassafras River Watershed in the Elk River Basin (02-13-06-10);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The following watersheds in the Chester River Basin:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Miles River (02-13-05-02);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Wye River (02-13-05-03);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Middle Chester River (02-13-05-09);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Upper Chester River (02-13-05-10);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The following watersheds in the Pocomoke River Basin:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Nassawango Creek (02-13-02-05);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Lower Pocomoke River (02-13-02-02);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Manokin River (02-13-02-08);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Upper Pocomoke River (02-13-02-03);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Dividing Creek (2-13-02-04);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The following watersheds in the Choptank River Basin:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Upper Choptank (02-13-04-04);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Lower Choptank (02-13-04-03;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Tuckahoe Creek (02-13-04-05);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>The following watersheds in the Nanticoke/Wicomico River Basin:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Lower Wicomico (02-13-03-01);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Nanticoke River (02-13-03-05);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Marshy Hope Creek (02-13-03-06);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Wicomico Creek (02-13-03-03);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Transquaking River (02-13-03-08);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>The South Branch Patapsco Watershed in the Patapsco River Basin (02-13-09-08);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>The following reservoir watersheds:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Loch Raven (02-13-08-05);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Prettyboy (02-13-08-06);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Liberty (02-13-09-07); and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>All watersheds in the Patuxent River Basin (02-13-11-xx).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>State Cost Share Funds Shall be Made Available Only in a Priority Area.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A priority area is an area:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Within a geographic area located within 1,000 feet of the surface waters of the State where critical conditions exist;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Within a geographic area located more than 1,000 feet from the surface waters of the State provided a severe agricultural pollution problem exists;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Outside a geographic area located within 1,000 feet of the surface waters of the State where critical conditions exist; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Outside a geographic area located more than 1,000 feet from the surface waters of the State provided a severe agricultural pollution problem exists.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In determining the existence of critical conditions, the Department shall place emphasis on evidence that water runoff is carrying or has the potential to carry any pollutants from nutrients, sediment, animal wastes, or agricultural chemicals to the waters of the State. In addition, the Department shall consider the following criteria in designating a priority area:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Whether the area has a serious soil loss due to sheet, rill, gully, or wind erosion;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Whether the area has severely eroded soils as designated by erosion symbol 3 in the county soil survey;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Whether the area is designated as a land use capability class IIIe or higher, including all areas in class C slopes or greater, as designated by the county soil survey;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Whether the area is included in a land use capability subclass S, as designated by the county soil survey; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Whether critical conditions exist near the surface waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The following documents are incorporated by reference. They are available for review at each soil conservation district office. These documents are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Soil Survey of Allegany County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Soil Survey of Anne Arundel County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Soil Survey of Baltimore County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Soil Survey of Calvert County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Soil Survey of Caroline County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Soil Survey of Carroll County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Soil Survey of Cecil County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Soil Survey of Charles County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Soil Survey of Dorchester County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Soil Survey of Frederick County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Soil Survey of Garrett County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(l)"> <text>Soil Survey of Harford County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(m)"> <text>Soil Survey of Howard County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(n)"> <text>Soil Survey of Kent County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(o)"> <text>Soil Survey of Montgomery County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(p)"> <text>Soil Survey of Prince George's County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(q)"> <text>Soil Survey of Queen Anne's County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(r)"> <text>Soil Survey of St. Mary's County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(s)"> <text>Soil Survey of Somerset County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(t)"> <text>Soil Survey of Talbot County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(u)"> <text>Soil Survey of Washington County;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Soil Survey of Wicomico County; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(w)"> <text>Soil Survey of Worcester County.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A landowner who engages in an agricultural operation is eligible to receive cost share assistance for the preparation and the implementation of a nutrient management plan project provided that landowner is a State-certified nutrient management consultant or uses technical assistance from a private State-certified and licensed nutrient management consultant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Any nutrient management plan project shall comply with the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the person is using commercial fertilizer, as defined by Agriculture Article, §6-201(f), Annotated Code of Maryland, the plan shall be based on both nitrogen and phosphorus as limiting nutrients; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the person is using animal manure, the plan:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>May be based on nitrogen as the only limiting nutrient if developed before July 1, 2004; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Shall be based on phosphorus as the limiting nutrient in accordance with COMAR 15.20.07.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A person receiving cost share assistance for nutrient management plan development shall implement the plan in accordance with deadlines set forth in COMAR 15.20.07.04.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Procedures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may apply for cost sharing funds for a project on a Departmental request form provided by each local district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Upon request by the applicant, the district shall complete a project technical determination form which shall include an approximate project cost figure. For projects other than nutrient management plans, the district shall recommend whether a critical condition exists on a farm. Cost figures for nutrient management plan development may be calculated by a State-certified and licensed nutrient management consultant using State-designated flat rates.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The district shall forward both forms to the Department for review.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application Review and Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department to Approve or Disapprove an Application.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the Department approves a project, it shall base the amount of State cost sharing on:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The existence of a critical condition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Water quality improvements to be achieved, with consideration given to the cumulative effect of other projects on the same body of water;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Excepting riparian forest buffers, riparian herbaceous cover, wetland restoration, or pasture management, the estimated reduction of soil loss;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The estimated reduction of pollution from animal waste;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The estimated economic benefit to the participating farmer from use of the best management practice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Use of the most cost-effective best management practice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>For pasture management, the applicable rate established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>For the planting of multiple species of cover crops, the rate shall equal or exceed the rates paid for the planting of a single species of cover crop.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall disapprove an application for any of the following reasons:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The applicant seeks to reestablish agricultural practices which have deteriorated due to the negligence or mismanagement of an applicant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The applicant seeks funding for a conservation practice that does not:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Address a natural resource concern identified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Result in an improved conservation benefit;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The application is incomplete or does not comply with these regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The applicant's land is not a farm or is not used for agricultural purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The application is for a farm where a critical condition does not exist;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The application is for a project which is already under construction; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>No available funds.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 30 days, the Department shall notify both the applicant and the district if an application is approved, and the applicant shall be notified of the estimated State cost sharing amount for the project and the applicant's required matching amount.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Technical Assistance by the District."> <text>Upon application approval and notice by the Department, the applicant shall request the district to prepare or approve all design, construction, maintenance, or other plans for the project. The district shall provide any necessary layout and construction supervision. The district shall prepare a technical report along with its final estimate of project cost and send it to the applicant and to the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Cost Sharing Agreement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After a technical report of the project has been submitted to the Department by the district, the Department, with the approval of the Board of Public Works (when proceeds of State bonds are used to finance the State share), the district and the applicant shall execute an agreement. The agreement, among other things, shall obligate the applicant to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Establish, construct, or install one or more best management practices in accordance with district technical specifications;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maintain the best management practice for its expected life span;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Bind any successor in title for the life of the project as specified in the agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Provide any required funds for the project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Grant the Department, if it requests, a security interest in any equipment, structures, or similar items purchased with State cost sharing funds.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before the Department executes a cost sharing agreement with a farm tenant, it shall obtain the consent of the landlord to the terms and conditions of the agreement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Project Establishment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After all parties execute a cost sharing agreement, and upon notice to the local district by the applicant, an applicant shall begin the approved project.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The applicant shall be responsible for all steps in completing the project, including, but not limited to, obtaining any necessary permits and the services of contractors, or obtaining any necessary materials or equipment to complete project construction.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The applicant shall provide the Department with a copy of the nutrient management plan immediately upon its final preparation when submitting a claim for payment for cost share assistance.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Project Supervision."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A district shall periodically inspect the construction or installation of any project to ensure that it complies with district technical specifications.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An applicant shall agree to allow district, Department, and U.S. Department of Agriculture—Natural Resource Conservation Service representatives reasonable access to the project site for the purpose of site inspection and for reviewing the applicant's project records.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In order to verify implementation of the nutrient management plan project, the applicant shall agree to allow a Department representative access to the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Project site; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Applicant's project records.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Distribution of Cost Sharing Funds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who executes a cost sharing agreement shall do all of the following before making a claim for payment to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person shall document all eligible costs on an itemized statement and submit it to the district for approval. Each itemized cost shall be supported by payment receipts or unpaid invoices from vendors. Each receipt shall be signed by the person who executes a cost share agreement and certified that each cost is true and correct to the best of that person's knowledge;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each payment receipt or unpaid invoice shall show the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Vendor, or vendors names;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Type of material, labor, or equipment used on the project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The unit cost paid for the item, the total amount paid to the vendor, and the date payment was received.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The total amount of any claim for payment shall be shown clearly on a separate line on the face of the receipt. If receipts include items which were not used on the approved project, a person shall delete those items and adjust any total on the receipt.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After a project has been completed, a person shall complete a departmental claim for payment form, which is available from a district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The district shall certify to the Department that the project meets all applicable standards and specifications. The district shall also certify to the Department that a person's claim for payment properly represents all eligible costs. Only a State-certified nutrient management consultant may certify that a nutrient management plan meets all applicable standards and specifications.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Department shall distribute cost sharing funds only after it has determined that the project or best management practice has been established, or in the case of equipment, structures, or similar items, that it has been received and properly installed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Distribution.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>General Rule. The Department may distribute cost sharing funds for a project up to 100 percent of eligible costs, subject to the restrictions in §E(2)—(4) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Single Projects Other than Animal Waste Storage or Treatment Projects. The payment made under this program for a single non-waste storage or treatment project not covered by a pooling agreement may not exceed $150,000, and the payment for a single non-waste storage or treatment project covered by a pooling agreement may not exceed $200,000.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Animal Waste Storage or Treatment Projects.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The payment made under this program for a single animal waste storage or treatment project may not exceed $200,000.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The total payment made for all animal waste storage or treatment projects located on a farm or farms that a person owns or operates or in which the person has a controlling interest may not exceed $450,000 whether the person installed the project or a predecessor-in-title installed the project. This rule does not apply to an animal waste storage or treatment project that is no longer subject to an active agreement with the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The payment for an animal waste storage or treatment project:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Shall address an existing resource concern; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>If it is for a start-up poultry or livestock operation or the expansion of a poultry or livestock operation, may not exceed 50 percent of the eligible cost.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Nutrient Management Plans. The payment made under this program for a nutrient management plan may be for up to 87-1/2 percent of eligible costs which may include soil, plant tissue, and manure analysis. Payment made for the nutrient management plan project is not included in the maximum total cost share allowed per person.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If total cost sharing funds available from all sources exceed the State's maximum cost share rate for a project, the State's share shall be adjusted or prorated so as not to exceed the State's rate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>If actual costs are less than the estimated costs contained in the agreement, the payment may not exceed the cost share rate based on the actual costs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>If actual costs are more than the estimated costs contained in the agreement, the payment may be based on the actual cost if the Department approves the overrun and if funds are available.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Payment may be made either to the person when the person has advanced money, or directly to a vendor or contractor in accordance with the agreement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Project Monitoring."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After the Department has distributed cost sharing funds, the district or the Department shall monitor projects to see if they are maintained in accordance with the agreement. Any violations shall be reported by the district to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The district shall maintain a complete record of technical assistance provided to persons under the cost sharing program. These records will be available to the Department upon request.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Failure to Establish or Maintain Best Management Practices."> <text>If a person fails to establish, install, construct, or maintain a best management practice in accordance with any agreement executed with the Department, that person shall be liable for the full amount of State cost sharing funds paid for any practice that was not implemented or maintained. However, a person is not liable for inadequate maintenance or destruction of a best management practice if caused by an act of nature that could not be reasonably anticipated.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103, 8-703, 8-704, and 8-803.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 6, 1983 (10:11 Md. R. 978)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended as an emergency provision effective October 23, 1998 (25:24 Md. R. 1771); amended permanently effective February 8, 1999 (26:3 Md. R. 175)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended as an emergency provision effective November 1, 2000 (27:23 Md. R. 2145); amended permanently effective February 5, 2001 (28:2 Md. R. 100)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective December 24, 2012 (39:25 Md. R. 1615)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02M adopted and .03B, C amended as an emergency provision effective January 29, 1986 (13:4 Md. R. 393); emergency status expired May 15, 1986; adopted permanently effective July 13, 1986 (13:14 Md. R. 1635)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended as an emergency provision effective December 8, 2020 (48:1 Md. R. 9); amended permanently effective May 17, 2021 (48:10 Md. R. 401)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03D—F adopted as an emergency provision effective October 23, 1998 (25:24 Md. R. 1771); adopted permanently effective February 8, 1999 (26:3 Md. R. 175)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .03B and .10E amended as an emergency provision effective February 7, 1992 (19:4 Md. R. 469); amended permanently effective August 3, 1992 (19:15 Md. R. 1393)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03D—F amended as an emergency provision effective November 1, 2000 (27:23 Md. R. 2145); amended permanently effective February 5, 2001 (28:2 Md. R. 100)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended as an emergency provision effective October 23, 1998 (25:24 Md. R. 1771); amended permanently effective February 8, 1999 (26:3 Md. R. 175)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A amended as an emergency provision effective October 23, 1998 (25:24 Md. R. 1771); amended permanently effective February 8, 1999 (26:3 Md. R. 175)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A amended as an emergency provision effective December 8, 2020 (48:1 Md. R. 9); amended permanently effective May 17, 2021 (48:10 Md. R. 401)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08C adopted as an emergency provision effective October 23, 1998 (25:24 Md. R. 1771); adopted permanently effective February 8, 1999 (26:3 Md. R. 175)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09B amended effective December 24, 2012 (39:25 Md. R. 1615)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09C adopted as an emergency provision effective October 23, 1998 (25:24 Md. R. 1771); adopted permanently effective February 8, 1999 (26:3 Md. R. 175)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10C, E amended as an emergency provision effective October 23, 1998 (25:24 Md. R. 1771); amended permanently effective February 8, 1999 (26:3 Md. R. 175)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended as an emergency provision effective August 24, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1469); emergency status extended at 22:26 Md. R. 2028; amended permanently effective January 15, 1996 (23:1 Md. R. 35)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended effective April 19, 1999 (26:8 Md. R. 618)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended as an emergency provision effective October 1, 1999 (26:20 Md. R. 1543); amended permanently effective February 21, 2000 (27:3 Md. R. 327)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended as an emergency provision effective November 1, 2000 (27:23 Md. R. 2145); amended permanently effective February 5, 2001 (28:2 Md. R. 100)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended as an emergency provision effective August 15, 2006 (33:18 Md. R. 1503); amended permanently effective December 18, 2006 (33:25 Md. R. 1952)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended effective December 24, 2012 (39:25 Md. R. 1615)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended as an emergency provision effective July 30, 2021 (48:17 Md. R. 665); amended permanently effective October 18, 2021 (48:21 Md. R. 892)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended effective May 2, 2022 (49:9 Md. R. 531)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E amended as an emergency provision effective January 1, 2024 (51:3 Md. R. 153); amended permanently effective April 15, 2024 (51:7 Md. R. 334)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="06" heading="Correction or Amendment of Public Records"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter sets out procedures under which a person in interest may request the correction or amendment of public records of the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Act” means the Public Information Act, General Provisions Article, §§4-101—4-601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Applicant” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(b), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Custodian has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101 (d), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Person in interest” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(g), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Public record” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(j), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Who May Request."> <text>A person in interest may request that the Department correct or amend any public record that:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department keeps; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The person in interest is authorized to inspect.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Contents of Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person in interest shall make a request to correct or amend a public record in writing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The request shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Identify the public record to be corrected or amended;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>State the precise correction or amendment requested;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>State the reason for the correction or amendment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Include a statement that, to the best of the requester’s belief, the public record is inaccurate or incomplete.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Addressee."> <text>A request to correct or amend a public record shall be addressed to the custodian of the record. If the custodian is unknown, the request may be addressed to the Secretary.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Return of Nonconforming Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall accept a request to correct or amend a public record when it is received if it reasonably complies with Regulations .04 and .05 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the request does not reasonably comply with Regulations .04 and .05 of this chapter, the Department shall return the request to the requester with:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An explanation of the reason for the return; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A statement that, on receipt of a request that reasonably complies with Regulations .04 and .05 of this chapter, the request will be accepted.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Response to Request."> <text>Within 30 days after the Department receives a request for correction or amendment that reasonably complies with Regulations .04 and .05 of this chapter, the custodian shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Make the requested correction or amendment, and inform the requester in writing of the action; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Inform the requester in writing that the Department will not:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make the requested correction or amendment, and the reason for the refusal; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Act on the request because:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The requester is not a person in interest;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The requestor is not authorized to inspect the record; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Of any other reason authorized by law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Refusal of Request."> <text>If the Department refuses to make a requested correction or amendment, a person in interest may file with the Department a concise statement of the reasons for:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The requested correction or amendment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The person’s disagreement with the refusal of the Department to make the correction or amendment.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Requirements for Statement of Disagreement."> <text>The statement submitted under Regulation .08 of this chapter shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Be on pages no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches in size;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Use only one side of each page; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Consist of no more than five pages.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Provide Statement of Disagreement."> <text>If a person in interest files a statement of disagreement concerning a public record under Regulations .08 and .09 of this chapter, the Department shall provide a copy of the statement whenever the Department discloses the public record to a third party.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Administrative Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>person may request administrative review under this regulation if the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has refused the person’s request to correct or amend a public record under Regulation .07 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has rejected the person’s statement of disagreement under Regulation .08 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Has not provided a statement of disagreement to a third party under Regulation .10 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A request for review shall be filed with the Secretary within 30 days after the requester is advised of the Department’s action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The review proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland, and the administrative hearing regulations of the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-103; General Provisions Article, §4-502; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 27, 1984 (11:4 Md. R. 318)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.10 under chapter, Correction or Amendment of Personal Records repealed and new Regulations .01—.11 under new chapter, Correction or Amendment of Public Records adopted effective February 10, 2020 (47:3 Md. R. 172)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="07" heading="Aquaculture Grant Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>These regulations explain the Aquaculture Grant Program.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of the Aquaculture Grant Program is to provide matching funds for wastewater facilities for private aquaculture operations. This program will help Maryland aquafarmers design and construct devices that will reduce wastewater discharge or treat effluent to comply with water quality standards established by the Maryland Department of the Environment and the federal Environmental Protection Agency.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Who May Apply."> <text>A person with an aquaculture project that meets the program objectives as contained in this chapter may apply to the Department for a matching aquaculture grant.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Contents."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An application shall contain the following, with each section beginning on a separate sheet of paper:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Title page, which shall contain the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The project title;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The requested grant amount;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A statement of the funding phase, that is, design and testing, or construction and use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The county where the aquaculture project is located; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The applicant's name and signature, address and phone number, or name and signature of the applicant's authorized representative, if any.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Project description, which shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The project's objective;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A short, general summary, of approximately 300—400 words, of the proposed project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The project's design description, including drawings, as appropriate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>How the project will be operated and tested to meet the program objective or objectives as provided in Regulation .05A(1)(c) of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>An identification of the way in which the wastewater will be discharged and where, including the body of water, if any, receiving the wastewater;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Any other information the applicant believes necessary for the Department's complete review of the proposed project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Project Budget.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The applicant shall contribute at least 50 percent to the cost of any project.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The application shall contain a proposed budget for the project, identifying all sources and uses of money, and the estimated value of the applicant's other contributions to the cost of the project, such as goods and labor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>An applicant's labor contribution shall be based on the value of any salary paid for necessary labor, including benefits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any contribution of equipment shall be for equipment necessary for the project.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The applicant shall provide the Department with budget information in the following areas:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Labor;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Travel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Testing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Other necessary costs for the project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The budget shall include a proposed beginning and an ending date for the project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Resumes.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Each applicant shall include a resume, and resumes of key personnel involved in the project.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>All resumes shall include the educational background and the experience of the applicant and key personnel as these relate to the project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An applicant shall submit the application to the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture Office, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland 21401.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application Review and Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall approve or disapprove an application as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall approve projects in the order in which applications are received, if funds are available, and if in the Department's judgment:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The scientific and engineering objectives of the project are reasonable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The technological aspects of the project are appropriate and feasible;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Project plans are adequate to fulfill one or more of the following grant program objectives:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Water conservation,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Water recirculation,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Nutrient discharge reduction,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Solids reduction,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Thermal pollution abatement;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The applicant agrees to pay at least 50 percent of the cost of an aquaculture project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall disapprove an application for any of the following reasons:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The application is incomplete or does not comply with these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Funds are not available. Any application disapproved for this reason may be held for consideration by the Department for the next fund cycle.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall notify the applicant if an application is approved or disapproved. If the application is approved, the applicant shall be notified of the amount of the State grant for the project and the applicant's required matching amount.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Grant Agreement."> <text>Upon approval of an application by the Department, the applicant shall execute an agreement. The agreement, among other things, shall obligate the applicant to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Establish and operate an aquaculture project according to project specifications;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Provide any required funds for the project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Bind any successor in title for the life of the project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Maintain records as required;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Allow the Department to monitor the project to determine that the project is constructed and operated in accordance with any agreement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Distribution of Grant."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may disburse funds for a project up to 50 percent of eligible costs or $15,000, whichever is less.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Grant funds shall be distributed as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>One third of the grant shall be awarded to the applicant following the execution of the cost-sharing agreement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>One third of the grant shall be awarded to the applicant when the project begins operation. The Department shall verify the operation before payment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>One third of the grant shall be awarded to the applicant following receipt of a project final report prepared by the applicant. The final report shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An evaluation of the degree to which the project meets grant program objectives as provided in Regulation .05A(1)(c), including test results;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An accounting of the disbursement of all funds with an itemized list of costs associated with the project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The date and the signature of the applicant certifying that the information presented is true and correct to the best of that person's knowledge.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If actual costs are less than the estimated costs contained in the agreement, the payment may not exceed the cost share rate based on the actual costs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If actual costs are more than the estimated costs contained in the agreement, the payment may be based on the actual cost if the Department approves the overrun and if funds are available.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Project Monitoring."> <text>After the Department has distributed funds, the Department shall monitor projects to see if the projects are in accordance with the agreement.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Failure to Establish or Operate a Project."> <text>If a person fails to establish or operate a project in accordance with any agreement executed with the Department, that person shall be liable for the full amount of State funds paid for any project that was not implemented.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Chapter 14, Laws of Maryland 1989</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01--.09 adopted as an emergency provision effective February 9, 1990 (17:5 Md. R. 634); emergency status expired June 11, 1990; adopted permanently effective June 25, 1990 (17:12 Md. R. 1494)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="08" heading="Conflicts of Interest Policy for Employees Who Own or Operate a Farm"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>The Maryland Department of Agriculture's State agriculture programs benefit from the specialized knowledge of employees who own or operate a farm. This chapter explains the Department's policy governing conflicts of interest relating to financial interest and secondary employment for employees who work for the Department and at the same time own or operate a farm that is subject to the Department's regulatory authority.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Required Employee Disclosure."> <text>An individual who applies for employment, or who is employed by the Department, shall disclose whether that individual or employee owns, has an ownership interest in, or operates a farm.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Employment Participation Restrictions."> <text>A Department employee may not participate, as a part of that employee's duties, in any of the following matters if that participation in any way affects the employee's farm, or a farm that directly competes for business with the employee's farm operation:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any contract with the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Any regulatory or enforcement action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Any Department program that controls, or in any way regulates the employee's farm operation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Any matter that will have a direct and predictable effect on the employee's financial interest in the employee's farm operation, including such a matter involving:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The employees' spouse, or immediate family;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An outside employer or prospective employer of the employee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An organization in which the employee serves as an officer, director, or general partner; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any person with whom the employee has or seeks a business, contractual, or other financial relationship.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Ethics Law Restrictions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any Department employee who owns or operates a farm is subject to all applicable provisions of the Ethics Law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For example, the Ethics Law, in part, prohibits employees from participating in matters in which the employee or a relative has a financial or other interest under State Government Article, §15-501, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Ethics Law contains restrictions on:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Post-employment, under State Government Article, §15-504, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Gifts, under State Government Article, §15-505, Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Procurement, under State Government Article, §15-508, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Ethics Law precludes employees from intentionally using the prestige of their position to benefit themselves or others, under State Government Article, §15-606, Annotated Code of Maryland, and State Government Article, §2-307, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Ethics Law precludes disclosure or use of confidential information acquired by reason of the employee's public position and not yet available to the public:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For personal economic benefit; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the economic benefit of another, unless the confidential information is released in the discharge of an official duty, under State Government Article, §15-507, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>In accordance with State Government Article, §15-601, Annotated Code of Maryland, employees may be subject to financial disclosure provisions and may be required to file annual statements if identified as being required to file under that section.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Department Responsibilities."> <text>The Department is responsible for:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Making each employee aware of the requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Ensuring that each employee who has an outside farm business acknowledges that the employee has read and agrees to be bound by the requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Ensuring that each employee subject to this chapter has executed a nonparticipation agreement with the Department that requires the employee to designate a representative to interact with the Department on matters involving the employee's farming business, and directs the employee to acknowledge that the employee may not participate in any way in any decision regarding any complaint or question regarding their farming business;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Keeping records for each employee who is subject to the requirements of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Monitoring and enforcing employee compliance with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Noncompliance."> <text>An employee who violates this chapter is subject to disciplinary action, including termination from State service.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Reports to the Ethics Commission."> <text>The Department shall provide copies of applicable nonparticipating agreements, and provide annual reports to the State Ethics Commission on the number of employees hired by the Department during any year who own or operate a farm that is subject to the Department's regulatory authority.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Report to the General Assembly."> <text>On or before December 31, 2010, the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the State Ethics Commission shall jointly prepare and submit a report to the General Assembly, in accordance with State Government Article, §2-1246, Annotated Code of Maryland that includes:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The number of employees hired by the Department, on or after October 1, 2007, who own or operate a farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The positions for which the employees identified in this regulation were hired; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Information on how the Department addressed any conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest in hiring the employees identified in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article §2-102(e), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March 8, 2010 (37:5 Md. R. 428)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="09" heading="Advertising Agricultural Products as Local or Locally Grown"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to require a person who advertises a particular agricultural product as local or locally grown to disclose certain information about the particular product. It applies to any person who, in advertising a particular agricultural product for sale in this State, represents the particular product to be local or locally grown, including, but not limited to, wholesalers, retail stores, farmers markets, and restaurants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The purpose of the disclosure is to allow a consumer to make his or her own determination as to whether an agricultural product advertised as local conforms to the consumer’s own definition of local or locally grown.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Advertise” means to publish, circulate, disseminate, or place before the public in any way or through any medium.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agricultural product” means raw meat, eggs, fish, fruits, vegetables, shellfish, and processed dairy products, intended for human consumption..</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Person” includes an individual, association, partnership, corporation, or any other business entity, or an agent or employee of an individual or entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Prohibition and Disclosure Statement."> <text>A person may not advertise a particular agricultural product for sale as local or locally grown, or use any term that may lead a consumer to believe that the product is local or locally grown, including the term “regional”, unless the advertisement includes a disclosure of the place of origin, naming the state where the product was originally grown or raised, or in the case of fish or shellfish, the state where the product was raised or landed.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Posting of Disclosure Statement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who is subject to the requirements of this chapter shall post in a clear and conspicuous manner the disclosure statement required by Regulation .03 of this chapter so that it can be seen easily by the consumer before the consumer buys or consumes the product about which the disclosure is made.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person subject to this chapter shall post the disclosure statement required by Regulation .03 of this chapter with or immediately adjacent to any advertisement representing that the product is local or locally grown.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If products sourced from different states of origin are intermingled for sale under a single advertisement, a person subject to this chapter shall post the disclosure statement required by Regulation .03 of this chapter for each state from which the intermingled products originated.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Documentation Requirement."> <text>Upon request by the Secretary, a person subject to the requirements of this chapter shall provide the Secretary with documentation that shows the state of origin for any agricultural product advertised for sale as local or locally grown.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Penalty."> <text>A person who knowingly violates this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to a penalty provided in Agriculture Article, Title 12, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article §10-1701, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 27, 2011 (38:13 Md. R. 757)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="10" heading="Spay/Neuter Grant Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter explains the requirements of the Spay/Neuter Grant Program. The purpose of this program, administered by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, is to reduce animal shelter overpopulation and cat and dog euthanasia rates by financing grants to local governments and animal welfare organizations for programs that most efficiently and effectively facilitate and promote spay and neuter services for cats and dogs.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Animal welfare organization” means a not-for-profit organization established to promote animal welfare that has received tax exempt status under 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and is registered to do business in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Fund” means the Spay/Neuter Fund.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Project” means an action plan that the applicant agrees to follow for spay and neuter services for cats and dogs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Spay/Neuter Advisory Board” means the Spay/Neuter Advisory Board of the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Who May Apply for Grants."> <text>Only the following may apply for a grant under this chapter:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A municipal or county government; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An animal welfare organization.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Grant Application Contents."> <text>A qualified applicant who applies for a grant shall apply on a departmental form that includes, among other things, the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The project title;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The applicant’s name and contact information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The qualifications of the applicant and the personnel who will work on the project, including veterinary services, if applicable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The amount of the grant requested; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A project description, which shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The project’s objectives and expected outcomes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A work plan and budget summary of the proposed project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>How the project meets the purposes of the Fund and the requirements of the grant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any additional information required by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application Review and Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall solicit one or more times annually, depending on available funding, competitive grant proposals to facilitate the delivery of spay and neuter services. It is the Department’s intent to select the best proposals that most efficiently and effectively facilitate and promote the provision of those services and target low-income communities and populations to the maximum extent possible.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall provide guidelines and detailed instructions for submitting a proposal for the Department’s consideration.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall rank applications based on the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall rank eligible applications and select for funding those that most effectively and efficiently achieve the purpose of the Fund; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In determining which projects to fund, the Department will consider:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>How low-income communities and populations are targeted and how the goal of reaching those communities and populations will be accomplished;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>How well the project proposal identifies and assesses the need for additional spay and neuter services in the targeted community or population, and how effectively and efficiently the project will meet that need;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Whether a proposal targeting feral cat populations violates local law;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>How the project proposal identifies and meets the need to promote spay/neuter services to the targeted population or community through education and outreach;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The extent to which the project increases the number of spay/neuter procedures in Maryland and impacts animal shelter over-population and cat and dog euthanasia rates;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The expected project results relative to the amount of funds requested;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>The qualifications and experience of the applicant and the individuals who will be responsible for implementing the project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>The recommendations of the Spay Neuter Advisory Board.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Grant Agreement."> <text>Upon approval of a grant application by the Department, the applicant on a Departmental form, shall execute a grant agreement that, among other things, requires the applicant to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Establish and operate the project according to the project description;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Maintain and provide records and reports as required to the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Use grant funds for only those activities provided in the approved project application.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Distribution of Grant."> <text>The Department shall distribute grants, unless otherwise provided in the grant agreement, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>50 percent of the grant will be disbursed after receipt of an executed grant agreement and after receipt of any required documentation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The remaining 50 percent of the grant will be disbursed after receipt of the 2nd quarter report that is due 180 days after the grant cycle begins.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Project Monitoring and Reporting."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The recipient of a spay/neuter grant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Keep and maintain complete and accurate records of all activities connected with the grant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Report relevant information to the Department on how the grant was used to date, including data on the number and type of spay or neuter procedures performed, and such other information as requested by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Submit a final report, to the Department, both narrative and financial, within 30 days after the conclusion of the grant cycle, or upon completion of the project, whichever comes first. The final report shall be in a form as required by the Department, and shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Data on the number of spay and neuter procedures performed under the grant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A description of any public education and outreach efforts implemented;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>An evaluation of the degree to which the project’s objectives and expected outcomes were met;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A detailed accounting of the disbursement of all funds; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Any other information required by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Notify the Department in writing immediately of any significant change to the grant application or any funded grant activity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Failure to report as required by this regulation may jeopardize future grants to the grant recipient, and may result in the grant recipient being required to repay current grant funds.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Penalties."> <text>If the Department determines that the grant recipient has violated the grant agreement or that grant funds have not been used for their intended purpose as provided in the grant agreement, the Department may:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Discontinue any future grant payments;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Require the grant recipient to repay immediately to the Department the full amount of the grant, or a portion of the grant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Deny any future grant eligibility to the grant recipient.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Spay/Neuter Fund."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any person who registers a commercial feed under Agriculture Article, §6-107, Annotated Code of Maryland, that is prepared and distributed for consumption by a cat or dog shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Pay to the Department for use in the spay/neuter fund, the following fees for each registered brand or product:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>From October 1, 2013, through September 30, 2014, inclusive — $50;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>From October 1, 2014, through September 30, 2015, inclusive — $75; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>After September 30, 2015 — $100; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Declare on each application for registration that the product is prepared and distributed for consumption by a cat or dog.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Any person who fails to pay any fees required by this regulation is subject to the standards, policies, and procedures for the collection of claims of the State pursuant to COMAR 17.01.01.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article §§2-1602 and 2-1605, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 23, 2014 (41:12 Md. R. 668)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="11" heading="Animal Shelters — Minimum Standards of Care"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to set forth minimum standards of care for the following animal shelters that keep dogs and cats:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A shelter that is owned by a county or municipality;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A shelter that a county or municipality contracts with for animal control services; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A shelter that has received a grant from the Maryland Spay and Neuter Grants Program during the previous year.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Animal” means a dog or a cat that is kept temporarily or permanently at an animal shelter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Animal enrichment” means providing an animal with social contact, mental stimulation, physical activity and other activities that allow the animal to demonstrate species typical behavior and enhanced well-being.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Animal shelter” or “shelter” means a physical structure that provides temporary or permanent housing for animals and is owned by a local government, or by an organization that counties or municipalities contract with for animal control services, or by an organization that shelters animals and received a grant from the Maryland Spay and Neuter Grants Program during the previous year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Drop box” means an unattended receptacle where live animals can be placed by the public for later shelter intake.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Fully clean” means to disinfect an area or an item with chemical agents that kill harmful micro-organisms.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Primary animal enclosure” means any structure used consistently to restrict an animal to a limited amount of space, such as a room, pen, crate, cage, kennel, or compartment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Responsible individual” means the shelter’s responsible individual as defined by COMAR 15.14.04.06.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Run” or “dog run” means a dedicated area, either indoors or outdoors, that is enclosed by a fence or gate, where dogs may move about untethered and unleashed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Spot clean” means to clean only a stain or spot and generally involves using mild cleaning agents, such as soaps and detergents.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Transport carrier” means a portable enclosure designed to temporarily contain an animal that is being transported from one location to another.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Veterinarian” means a veterinarian who is licensed, registered and in good standing with the Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Animal Shelter Buildings."> <text>The responsible individual shall ensure that the shelter is a safe, structurally sound, and sanitary building that meets the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A shelter may not have any structural defects that could cause injury to animals or staff members handling animals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Surfaces in animal areas, such as floors, junctions, walls, doors, shall be made of nonporous material that can easily be disinfected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Ceilings shall be kept in good condition without leaks;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>All areas where animals are present shall have adequate ventilation and be kept between 60—80 degrees F;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>By July 1, 2019, all rooms where animals are housed shall have a fire alarm system that will alert authorities of fire or heavy smoke;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A shelter shall have written policies and protocols in place to maintain adequate capacity to prevent and eliminate overcrowding; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Upon request, a shelter shall allow the Department to inspect the premises for compliance with this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Primary Animal Enclosures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The responsible individual shall ensure that any primary animal enclosure is structurally sound and maintained in a safe, working condition at all times; and that it enables animals to remain dry, clean, and shielded from extreme temperatures and weather conditions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A primary animal enclosure shall meet the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A primary animal enclosure shall provide sufficient space to allow each animal, regardless of size, to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Hold their tails erect and their heads high when in a normal standing position;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Turn freely and easily stand, sit, stretch, and move their head, without touching the top of the enclosure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Lie in a resting position with limbs extended; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Move about and assume a comfortable posture for feeding, drinking, urinating, or defecating;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Food, water bowls, and any other items in the primary animal enclosure may not impede the animal’s ability to stretch out;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A primary enclosure shall allow any animal to sit, sleep, and eat away from areas of its enclosure where it may defecate or urinate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Latches or other closing devices on a primary animal enclosure shall be secure enough to keep the animal in the enclosure, keep other animals out of the enclosure, and prevent injury, while allowing personnel to easily open the enclosure from the outside and, where applicable, from inside the enclosure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A primary enclosure, temporary enclosure, and transport carriers that compromise the safety of animals or that have been identified as needing repair are prohibited from being used for permanent or temporary animal housing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Transport carriers may not be used as a primary enclosure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>All animals housed in outdoor areas, or allowed exercise time in outdoor areas, shall be provided with appropriate shelter from the elements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Drop boxes are prohibited except under the following conditions:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Each drop box shall have automatic locking doors that allow only one animal drop-off to be made at each box;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Bedding and shelter from the weather shall be provided in each drop box, and bedding shall be fully cleaned before and after every use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Fresh food and water shall be provided in each drop box every night, and food bowls and water bowls must be fully cleaned before and after every use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Security cameras shall be installed and periodically monitored by staff;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The shelter shall have written protocols in place to ensure that dropped off animals that appear to need medical treatment are examined by a veterinarian immediately; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>An animal may not remain in a drop box for more than 12 hours.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Sanitation Practices."> <text>The responsible individual shall ensure that the shelter building, primary animal enclosures, and all other areas where animals are kept are sanitary and regularly cleaned to reduce disease transmission among animals, protect public human health, increase animal comfort, and meet the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All primary animal enclosures, food bowls, and water bowls shall be fully cleaned before a new animal is placed in enclosures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>All animal bedding shall be fully cleaned before being used by a new animal and subsequently fully cleaned, as often as necessary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>All cages, food bowls, and water bowls shall be spot-cleaned daily and fully cleaned as necessary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>All floors, junctions, walls, doors, and drains shall be immediately sanitized and fully cleaned after coming into contact with feces, urine, vomit, or an animal known or suspected of having an infectious disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Only cleaners that are safe for animals shall be used to clean primary enclosures, transport carriers, exercise areas, or any area of the shelter where animals are present or likely to be present;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>All chemicals shall be removed from the enclosure prior to placing an animal in the enclosure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>No animal or animal’s drinking water or water bowl shall be left in an enclosure while cleaning chemicals are being used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The shelter building and runs shall be kept reasonably free of flies, fleas, mosquitoes, rats, mice, and other vectors or nuisance species;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>All trash cans in areas of a shelter where animals are located shall have lids; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Relevant shelter staff shall be trained in the shelters’ sanitation protocols, and a written record of that training shall be kept on-site and available for inspection.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Medical Standards."> <text>The responsible individual shall ensure that all animals are monitored, assessed, examined, and treated for medical conditions in a timely manner as follows:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A veterinarian shall supervise the medical care and medical treatment of all animals in an animal shelter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Any surgeries shall be performed in accordance with the Maryland Veterinary Practice Act and in a facility currently licensed and registered by the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Animal shelter staff shall observe animals daily for signs of illness or injury, and obtain treatment, as appropriate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Clean water shall be provided to all animals at all times unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>All animals with parasites shall be treated immediately unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Any animal appearing to be experiencing pain, suffering distress, rapidly deteriorating health, life-threatening problems, or suspected zoonotic disease shall be assessed by a veterinarian as soon as possible or euthanized to prevent further distress or suffering;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Any animal with a suspected zoonotic disease that does not appear to be experiencing pain, distress, or deteriorating health, but that poses a threat to human health and safety, shall be isolated by the shelter to limit exposure to other animals and people, and shall be assessed by a veterinarian immediately or as soon as possible;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Any animal that is observed to be experiencing mental suffering, distress, or behavioral deterioration shall be assessed and appropriately treated by a veterinarian in a timely manner or humanely euthanized by the shelter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Animals that can be handled safely shall be provided with animal enrichment activities, whenever possible; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Animal food that is more than 6 months past the “sell by” date shall not be provided to an animal.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Equipment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The responsible individual shall ensure that anyone working with animals, including a volunteer, has the equipment necessary to handle all situations in a safe and humane manner, including the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Adequate ear protection, gloves, and other safety equipment to all staff members who handle animals or clean cages; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Equipment that allows staff to restrain animals as humanely as possible while ensuring the safety of both the animal and the handler.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Scanners and Microchip Readers. All animals shall be scanned within 24 hours of arrival at the shelter for microchips unless it is unsafe to do so. Scans shall also be performed prior to surgery, adoption, release to an owner, release to a rescue, and euthanasia.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Record Keeping."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The responsible individual shall ensure that records are kept for each animal entering the shelter. Information shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The animal’s species and unique identification number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The estimated age of the animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Date of entry into the shelter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Date and explanation of all treatments and medical procedures; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Final disposition (date and type).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>All shelters shall have active adoption programs with written protocols available for inspection, as defined in Agriculture Article, §2-1704, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Civil Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may impose a civil penalty on a shelter that violates the requirements of this chapter or Agriculture Article, §2-1704, Annotated Code of Maryland, which requires shelters to adopt a written protocol for reclaiming animals, up to $500 for each violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before imposing any civil penalty under this chapter, the Department shall consider the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The nature and gravity of each violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation and the extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the shelter but uncorrected by the shelter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A history of prior violations, if any.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall issue a written notice of violation to the shelter owner upon finding that a violation has occurred or is ongoing. The written notice of violation shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A statement of the regulation violated by the shelter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A description of the evidence of a violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A statement informing the shelter of the right to an informal meeting with the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The amount of the proposed civil penalty;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A statement of the remedial action necessary to bring the shelter into compliance; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A reasonable amount of time, as determined by the Department, to correct a violation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A shelter may petition the Department for a contested case hearing on a violation and penalty within 30 calendar days of the issuance of the notice of violation by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Unless a shelter requests a contested case hearing, the shelter shall promptly pay the penalty. Payment of a penalty is not a substitute for compliance. If the shelter continues to violate this chapter, the Department may impose additional civil penalties.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article §2-1701 at seq., Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 23, 2018 (45:8 Md. R. 422)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="12" heading="Food Donation Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>In cooperation with the Comptroller, this chapter explains the Secretary of Agriculture’s Food Donation Program, which provides a tax credit against the State income tax for eligible food donations made by a farm located in Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Certified organic produce” means an eligible food donation that is certified under Title 10, Subtitle 14 of the Agriculture Article as an organically produced commodity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Eligible food donation” means fresh farm products for human consumption.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Qualified farm” means a farm business that is located in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Tax Credit Certificate Administrator” or “TCCA” means a person or an organization that is authorized under this chapter to receive eligible food donations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Income Tax Credit Limitations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Subject to the limitations of this chapter, a qualified farm may claim a credit against State income tax for an eligible food donation in the amount stated on any tax credit certificate issued to a qualified farm by a qualified tax credit certificate administrator (TCCA).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The amount of tax credit claimed by a qualified farm is controlled by Tax-General Article, §10-745, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Unless increased by the Secretary, the aggregate amount of credits for any taxable year for a qualified farm may not exceed $5,000.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Tax Credit Certificate Administrator."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Unless certified by the Secretary, a person or organization may not act as a TCCA. A certified TCCA shall agree in writing with the Secretary to comply with requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A TCCA certified by the Secretary that receives an eligible food donation from a qualified farm shall issue the qualified farm a tax credit certificate (the Secretary, in consultation with the Comptroller, is required to prepare tax certificate forms) that provides the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The date of donation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The identity of the qualified farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The type of donation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The weight of the donation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The value of the donation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The maximum amount of the tax credit for which the qualified farm is eligible; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Any other information the State Department of Agriculture or Comptroller requires.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Within 30 calendar days after issuing a tax credit certificate, the certified TCCA shall provide a copy of the tax credit certificate to the Secretary and the Comptroller.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>When notified by the Secretary, the TCCA shall stop issuing tax credit certificates as required by Tax-General Article, §10-745(e)(6)(i)1, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Procedures for Issuing a Fiscal Year's Remaining Tax Credit Certificates.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>After the Secretary notifies each TCCA to stop issuing tax credit certificates when the total amount of the tax credit certificates issued during the fiscal year equals or exceeds $50,000, the Secretary may authorize the issuance of any remaining credits as provided in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Within 20 days from receipt of the Secretary's notification, a TCCA may request written permission from the Secretary to issue additional tax credit certificates during the current fiscal year, specifying the dollar amount in additional tax credits it seeks to issue and the basis for that request (e.g., to support its request, the TCCA may be requested by MDA to provide information indicating the amount of food donations by type that it has received and is likely to receive from qualified farms during the current fiscal year, and other such records showing that its request is reasonable).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The Secretary shall review each timely request from a TCCA in conjunction with other timely requests and assess whether the basis for the request is reasonable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>If the total dollar amount of the requests received from all TCCAs does not exceed $50,000, the Secretary may permit each TCCA to issue tax credits up to the amount specified in its request and will notify each TCCA of its determination in writing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>If the total dollar amount of the requests received from all TCCAs exceeds $50,000, the Secretary shall strive to distribute the additional tax credits to each TCCA for food donations from qualified farms in a fair and equitable manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>If a TCCA recognizes that it will be unable to issue the tax credits that the Secretary has authorized under either §A(5)(d) or (e) of this regulation, it shall immediately notify the Secretary who will strive to distribute these certificates in a fair and equitable manner to those TCCAs still in need of additional tax credits.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Tax Credit Value. The TCCA shall determine the value of the tax credit as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A qualified farm that makes eligible food donations is eligible for a tax credit certificate with a stated tax credit amount equal to 100 percent of the value of eligible food donation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A qualified farm that makes a donation of certified organic produce is eligible for a tax credit certificate with a stated tax credit amount equal to 100 percent of the value of the donated certified organic produce.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The TCCA shall determine the value of any eligible food donations based on the Secretary's weekly published categories and values of certified organic produce and food donations as required by Tax-General Article, §10-745(d), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Record Requirement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The TCCA shall maintain any records relating to the issuance of any tax credit certificate to any qualified farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any record shall be maintained for 3 years and shall be available to the Secretary or the Comptroller upon request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Conflicts of Interest. A TCCA may not issue a tax credit certificate to any person who owns or operates a qualified farm if the TCCA has a business interest or is a family member of the owner or operator in the farm.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Certification of Tax Credit Certificate Administrator."> <text>An applicant who applies to serve as a Tax Credit Certificate Administrator shall apply to the Secretary on a departmental form and shall have the following qualifications:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Be a 501c3 nonprofit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Have record-keeping capabilities (information systems) that include the date of the donation, farm name/farmer, type of fresh farm product, and volume in pounds of produce received;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Be certified in and comply with safe food handling practices and have been reviewed by an outside organization (i.e. health inspector, AIB certified);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Possess a scale certified by the Maryland Department of Agriculture that is calibrated on a quarterly basis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Follow food safety regulations regarding storage and inventory; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Have an established partner network for quick food distribution or distribute directly to clients.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Application Review and Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary shall review each application and certify the most qualified applicants who will best promote the objectives of the Food Donation Pilot Program as described in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Upon approval of an application for certification, the certified applicant shall execute an agreement with the Secretary that describes the duties and responsibilities of a person or organization acting as a Tax Credit Certificate Administrator.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Penalty."> <text>Upon notice and an opportunity to be heard, for any violation of this chapter, the Secretary may revoke or suspend the authority of any TCCA to issue a tax credit certificate for any qualified farm.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Tax-General Article, §10-745, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.07 adopted as an Emergency provision effective September 8, 2017 (44:20 Md. R. 944); emergency status expired effective January 3, 2018</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.07 adopted effective June 4, 2018 (45:11 Md. R. 579)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective April 6, 2020 (47:7 Md. R. 384); November 13, 2023 (50:22 Md. R. 978)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective April 6, 2020 (47:7 Md. R. 384)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective April 6, 2020 (47:7 Md. R. 384); November 13, 2023 (50:22 Md. R. 978)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A, B amended effective April 6, 2020 (47:7 Md. R. 384)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended effective November 13, 2023 (50:22 Md. R. 978)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="13" heading="Supervision and Review of Decisions and Actions of Units Within the Department"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter is adopted in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in North Carolina Board of Dental Examiners v. Federal Trade Commission.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to provide for active supervision of certain units within the Department to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Prevent unreasonable anticompetitive actions; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Ensure that anticompetitive actions are consistent with affirmatively expressed and clearly articulated State policies to displace competition.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Secretary’s designee” means the Assistant Secretary who is responsible for actively supervising a unit’s operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Unit” means a regulatory board or commission composed in whole or in part of individuals participating in the occupation or profession regulated by that board or commission.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Secretary’s Supervision Responsibilities."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary is responsible for supervising each unit within the Department that is composed in whole or in part of individuals participating in the occupation or profession regulated by the unit to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Prevent unreasonable anticompetitive actions by the unit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Determine whether the decisions and actions of the unit with anticompetitive effect further an affirmatively expressed and clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the unit’s regulated market (as opposed to serving the private interests of the market participant regulators).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For purposes of the Secretary’s responsibilities under this chapter, the following types of decisions and actions of a unit generally are not unreasonable anticompetitive actions by the unit:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Ministerial or nondiscretionary acts undertaken in good faith implementation of the unit’s enabling legislation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An investigation, charge, or disposition of a disciplinary charge against a single individual subject to the regulatory authority of a unit involving an issue such as standard of care; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The initiation and prosecution of a lawsuit by a regulatory board unless it falls within the “sham exception.” Professional Real Estate Investors v. Columbia Pictures Industries, 508 U.S. 49 (1993); California Motor Transport Co. v. Trucking Unlimited, 404 U.S. 508 (1972).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For purposes of the Secretary’s responsibilities under this chapter, the types of decisions and actions for which anticompetitive consequences should be evaluated, include, but are not limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Decisions or actions governing the scope of a licensed individual’s practice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Requirements for granting a license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pricing regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Restrictions on advertising or soliciting customers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Territorial allocations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Restrictions on market participation or actions against nonlicensees;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Restrictions on competitive bidding; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Patterns of disciplinary action by a unit against similarly situated licensees.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Secretary’s Designee Responsibilities."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each Assistant Secretary at the Department is designated as responsible for supervising each unit in the Assistant Secretary’s section that is composed in whole or in part of individuals participating in the occupation or profession regulated by the unit to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Prevent unreasonable anticompetitive actions by the unit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Determine whether an anticompetitive decision or action of the unit furthers a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the unit’s regulated market.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Each Assistant Secretary is responsible for keeping fully informed of all proposed anticompetitive actions and decisions of any unit subject to this chapter by consulting with both the unit’s Executive Director and legal advisor from the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the Secretary or the Secretary’s designee finds that a proposed decision or action of the unit with anticompetitive effect may result in an unreasonable restraint on competition or may not further a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated marketplace, the Secretary or the Secretary’s designee shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Immediately notify the unit not to make a final decision or take the proposed action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Review the evidentiary record created by the unit, and, if necessary, supplement the evidentiary record of the unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Conduct a substantive review of the merits of the unit’s proposed decision or action to consider the anticompetitive consequences of the proposed decision or action as well as any State policy advanced;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Assess whether the unit’s proposed decision or action furthers a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated market; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Issue expeditiously a written decision approving, disapproving, or modifying the proposed decision or action or remanding the proposed decision or action back to the unit for further review before:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A final decision is issued; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The proposed action is implemented.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A written decision approving an anticompetitive decision or action of a unit shall identify any clearly articulated and affirmatively expressed State policy to displace competition in the regulated market advanced by the proposed decision or action and explain why the decision or action should be approved, notwithstanding the anticompetitive effect.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A written statement disapproving an anticompetitive decision or action shall explain the reasons supporting the decision not to approve the proposed decision or action.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Secretary or the Secretary’s designee may not approve an anticompetitive decision or action of a unit that does not further a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated market.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Unit’s Responsibilities."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon notice to the unit by the Secretary or the Secretary’s designee as provided in Regulation .04C of this chapter, a unit may not make any decision or take any action on any proposal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A decision or action of a unit may not constitute a final decision or action of the unit until after the Secretary or the Secretary’s designee has conducted the review required under Regulation .04C of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The final decision or action of a unit shall comply with the written decision of the Secretary or the Secretary’s designee issued in accordance with Regulation .04C of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">State Government Article, §8-205.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 4, 2018 (45:11 Md. R. 579)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="14" heading="Seafood Marketing"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="True Blue Marketing Program."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Definition.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In this chapter, the following term has the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Term Defined. “True Blue” means a certification from the Department verifying that a food service establishment is selling blue crab product harvested or processed in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Application. Any food service establishment selling blue crab product harvested or processed in Maryland may apply to the Department to receive a True Blue certification by submitting the appropriate forms provided by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Approval. Any approved food service establishment may market or advertise blue crab product that is harvested or processed in Maryland as True Blue certified.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Validation. Any participating food service establishment shall provide any required documentation to the Department to show proof of the source of blue crab product.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Penalties. A food service establishment that violates the terms of the program may have its certification revoked.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §10-1002, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Transferred from Department of Natural Resources, COMAR 08.02.24</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 1, 2017</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="15" heading="Use of Antimicrobial Drugs"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to describe the restrictions on the use of medically important antimicrobial drugs in the production of cattle, swine and poultry.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Administered in a regular pattern” means used:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For multiple courses of therapy in the same animal or group of animals; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>As a standard operating procedure, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>In correspondence with a particular life stage of an animal, such as in ovo, at birth or hatch, or at weaning;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>As an ongoing management strategy or tool, such as in correspondence with a particular age or weight of an animal, time of the week, month, or year, or season; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>When moving animals from one location to another.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Animal” means cattle, swine or poultry.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Dry cycle” means a period of time when a cow is not lactating.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Elevated Risk.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Elevated risk” means a risk that is significantly higher than that present under normal or standard operating conditions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Elevated risk” does not include a risk typically or frequently present under normal or standard operating conditions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Prophylaxis” or “Prophylactic” means the prevention of disease or infection in the absence of documented clinical signs of disease or infection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Medically important antimicrobial drug” means any drug from a class of drug or a derivative of a class of drug that is either:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Made from a mold or bacterium that kills or slows the growth of other microbes, specifically bacteria, and used in human beings or intended for use in human beings to treat or prevent disease or infection; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Listed in:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Appendix A of the federal Food and Drug Administration’s Guidance for Industry #152, including critically important, highly important, or important antimicrobial drugs; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A subsequent guidance document created by the federal Food and Drug Administration that ranks the medical importance of antimicrobial drugs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="When Permitted."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in this regulation, a person may administer a medically important antimicrobial drug to cattle, swine, or poultry if, in the professional judgment of a licensed veterinarian, the medically important antimicrobial drug is necessary:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To treat a disease or infection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>To control the spread of a disease or infection; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For a surgery or medical procedure.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may administer a medically important antimicrobial drug to cattle, swine, or poultry if, in the professional judgment of a licensed veterinarian, the medically important antimicrobial drug is necessary for prophylaxis to address an elevated risk of contraction of a particular disease or infection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Unless administration of a medically important antimicrobial drug is consistent with §A of this regulation, a person may not administer a medically important antimicrobial drug in a regular pattern to cattle, swine, or poultry.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person may not administer a medically important antimicrobial drug to cattle, swine, or poultry solely for the purpose of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Promoting weight gain; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Improving feed efficiency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Dry Cow Treatment.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>General Rule Requiring Assessment. The administration of a medically important antimicrobial drug to a cow entering a dry cycle is prohibited except when the cow is diagnosed with a bacterial intramammary infection (mastitis).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Methods of Assessing Mastitis in an Individual Cow.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Tests. A person may assess the presence of mastitis in an individual cow through one or more of the following tests:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A positive bacterial culture test;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A positive California Mastitis Test;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>A somatic cell count for an individual cow greater than 200,000 cells per milliliter in the most recent lactation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Any other assessment method approved by the Secretary generally recognized by the American Association of Bovine Practitioners.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Signs of Mastitis. A person may assess the presence of mastitis in an individual cow using one or more of the following indicators:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Visibly abnormal milk including the presence of clots, blood, or discoloration; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Heat, pain, tenderness, or swelling of a gland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A licensed veterinarian may assess the presence of mastitis in an individual cow through the observation of clinical signs of mastitis.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Applicability."> <text>Except as otherwise provided in federal law or regulation, this chapter does not apply to antimicrobial use in:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Cattle on a farm operation that sells fewer than 200 cattle per year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Dairy cattle on a farm operation with a herd size of fewer than 300 dairy cattle;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Swine on a farm operation that sells fewer than 200 swine per year; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Poultry on a farm operation that sells fewer than 60,000 birds per year.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Civil Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may impose a civil penalty on any person who violates the requirements of this chapter up to $2,000 for each violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before imposing any civil penalty under this chapter, the Department shall consider the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The nature and gravity of each violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation and the extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the person but uncorrected by the person; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A history of prior violations, if any.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall issue a written notice of violation to the person subject to this chapter upon finding that a violation has occurred or is ongoing. The written notice of violation shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A statement of the regulation violated by the person;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A description of the evidence of a violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A statement informing the person of the right to an informal meeting with the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The amount of the proposed civil penalty;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A statement of the remedial action necessary to bring the person into compliance; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A reasonable amount of time, as determined by the Department, to correct a violation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person may petition the Department for a contested case hearing on the violation and penalty within 30 calendar days of the issuance of the notice of violation by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Unless a person requests a contested case hearing, the person shall promptly pay the penalty. Payment of a penalty is not a substitute for compliance. If the person continues to violate this chapter, the Department may impose additional civil penalties.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§3-1001—3-1003, 3-1005, and 3-1006, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 28, 2019 (46:2 Md. R. 53)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended as an emergency provision effective April 12, 2019 (46:9 Md. R. 444); amended permanently effective September 9, 2019 (46:18 Md. R. 775)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective January 14, 2021 (48:1 Md. R. 10)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03E adopted effective January 14, 2021 (48:1 Md. R. 10)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective January 14, 2021 (48:1 Md. R. 10)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="16" heading="Industrial Hemp Pilot Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter establishes the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Industrial Hemp Pilot Program, including the requirement for the registration and the certification of a site that will be used to grow or cultivate industrial hemp to further agricultural or academic research purposes.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Authorized holder” or “holder” means an institution of higher education or a person who has contracted with an institution or the Department to grow or cultivate industrial hemp for agricultural research or academic research purposes as authorized by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Certified site” means any property site certified by and registered with the Department as a site where industrial hemp may be grown or cultivated for agricultural or academic research purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Independent testing laboratory” has the meaning stated in Health-General Article, §13-3301, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Industrial Hemp.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Industrial hemp” means the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of such plant, whether growing or not, with a delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentration that does not exceed 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Industrial hemp” does not include any plant or part of a plant intended for a use that is regulated under Health-General Article, Title 13, Subtitle 33, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Institution of higher education” or “institution” has the meaning stated in the federal Higher Education Act of 1965.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, association, or any business entity, by whatever name designated and whether or not incorporated, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Authorization to Grow and Cultivate Industrial Hemp."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Only an institution of higher education within Maryland may submit an application to the Department for authorization to grow, cultivate, harvest, process, manufacture, transport, market or sell industrial hemp for agricultural, industrial, or commercial purposes to further agricultural or academic research purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Only a person contracting with the Department or an approved institution of higher education as provided in this regulation may possess, grow, cultivate, harvest, process, manufacture, transport, market, or sell industrial hemp for commercial purposes as part of the Pilot Program to further agricultural or academic research purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Industrial hemp may only be grown or cultivated at a registered site or premises owned or controlled by an institution of higher education or by a person who contracts with an institution to grow and cultivate it.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person who contracts with an institution to grow and cultivate industrial hemp shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be at least 18 years old;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pass a criminal background test with no felony convictions in the past 10 years;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Own or lease, with the approval of the owner, the property used to grow and cultivate hemp;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Have the site registered and approved with the Department before contracting to grow or cultivate hemp;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Grant the Department permission to enter and inspect the property to ensure compliance with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Only grow hemp on land that is at least 1,000 feet from a school or public recreation area when the hemp is being grown in an outdoor field or an outdoor site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Post a sign on the certified site that notifies the public that the site is used to grow hemp as part of the Pilot Program; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Attend an orientation session by the Department, in cooperation with the institution, that explains the requirements of this chapter before contracting to grow or cultivate hemp.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>It is the sole responsibility of any institution or person qualifying under this chapter to hold any required federal permit to possess, grow, or cultivate industrial hemp.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Review and Approval."> <text>An application to grow, cultivate, harvest, process, manufacture, transport, market, or sell industrial hemp to further agricultural research or academic research purposes shall be made on a Departmental form. Each application shall provide the following information, including, but not limited to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A description of each site where industrial hemp will be grown or cultivated, either by the institution of higher education or by an authorized person who contracts with the institution by physical address with a map clearly showing the location of the site with GPS coordinates;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A diagram for each site that visually depicts the buildings, structures, and improvements on the premises, and identifies their use, and that sets forth the relevant activities conducted at the site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A detailed summary of the issues and matters that the applicant intends to study in conjunction with growing, cultivating, processing, manufacturing, transporting, marketing, or selling industrial hemp; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Payment of a $250 fee to certify and register each site used to grow or cultivate industrial hemp either by the institution or the person who contracts with the institution.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Rejection of Application or Revocation of Authority."> <text>The Department may reject any application to grow or cultivate industrial hemp, and may revoke an authorization to grow and cultivate industrial hemp, if the Department determines that:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The application is incomplete or does not provide the information required pursuant to Regulation .04 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The authorized holder has failed to comply with the requirements of this chapter or the terms of the holder’s application.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Hemp Seeds."> <text>A person or institution that grows or cultivates industrial hemp as authorized by this chapter may purchase or otherwise obtain seeds or a plant or plant part that can be utilized to grow a new plant that produce plants that meet the definition of industrial hemp as provided in this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Hemp Verification and Reports."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In accordance with this regulation, a person who grows or cultivates industrial hemp as authorized by this chapter shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Verify that the plants grown or cultivated by the person meet the definition of industrial hemp under this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maintain all records of verification at the site that is used to grow or cultivate industrial hemp; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Make all records available for inspection by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The institution of higher education that contracted with the person under this chapter to grow or cultivate industrial hemp.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The verification required under this regulation shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Documentation from an independent testing laboratory registered as defined by this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Documentation from the institution of higher education that contracted with the person under this chapter to grow or cultivate industrial hemp.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An independent testing laboratory or an institution of higher education that provides verification documentation under this chapter shall conduct on-site inspections to perform the testing necessary for the verification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If it is determined that the industrial hemp exceeds a delta-9-tetrahydrocannabnol concentration that exceeds 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis, it shall be destroyed by the authorized holder within 7 days under the supervision of the institution of higher education.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The frequency of the verification required under this subsection shall be determined by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The institution of higher education that contracted with a person under this chapter to grow or cultivate industrial hemp.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §14-102(i), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 28, 2019 (46:2 Md. R. 53)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="17" heading="Hemp Farming Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter explains the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Hemp Farming Program, which licenses and regulates the production of hemp in the State. This chapter does not apply to an institution of higher education or a person who produces hemp under the Hemp Research Pilot Program. As required by State law, the Program has been approved by the United States Department of Agriculture.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Acceptable hemp THC level” means the application of the measurement uncertainty to the reported total delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol content concentration level on a dry weight basis producing a distribution or range that includes 0.3 percent or less total THC.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Applicant” means a person, or for a business entity, a person authorized to act on behalf of the business entity, who applies to the Department to become a licensed hemp grower in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Authorized agent” means a sampling agent who has received a certificate of completion of training from USDA or the Department and has been approved by the Department to sample hemp under the Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Authorized laboratory” means a laboratory that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>DEA registered; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Accredited to ISO17025:2017.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Cannabis.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Cannabis” means a genus of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae of which Cannabis sativa is a species, and Cannabis indicia and Cannabis ruderalis are subspecies thereof.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Cannabis” includes any form of the plant in which the delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentration on a dry weight basis has not yet been determined.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“CBD” means cannabidiol.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Conviction” means any plea of guilty or nolo contendere, or any finding of guilt, except when the finding of guilt is subsequently overturned on appeal, pardoned, or expunged.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Culpable mental state greater than negligence” means to act intentionally, knowingly, willfully, or recklessly.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Cultivate” means to plant, water, grow, or harvest a plant or crop.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“DEA” means the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Decarboxylated” means the completion of the chemical reaction that converts THC-A into delta-9-THC, the intoxicating component of cannabis. The decarboxylated value may also be calculated using a conversion formula that sums delta-9-THC and THC-A.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Decarboxylation” means the removal or elimination of a carboxyl group from a molecule or organic compound.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Delta-9-THC” or “THC” means delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentration, the primary intoxicating component of cannabis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Disposal” or “destruction” means the procedure to render a plant or a product derived from such plant unusable by burning, incorporating with other materials, or other methods approved by the Department consistent with USDA guidelines.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Dry weight basis” means the ratio of the amount of dry solid in a sample after drying to the total mass of the sample before drying, including the moisture in a sample.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“GPS” means Global Positioning System.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Growing area” means either an outdoor or an enclosed indoor area where hemp is cultivated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Hemp” means the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant, including all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with a total delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentration that does not exceed 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Hemp greens” means hemp leaves from immature plants that are no more than 10 inches tall and are not flowering.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Hemp microgreens” means immature hemp seedlings for human consumption that are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Cut off above the soil or substrate line and harvested before flowering and not more than 14 days after germination; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Typically, between 2 and 3 inches in height, but not taller than 5 inches.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Hemp transplants” means nonflowering hemp seedlings, rooted cuttings, immature plants produced from tissue culture, or other means of reproduction, which are not harvested but transplanted into a large container or field to mature for harvest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>Key Participant.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Key participant” means a sole proprietor, a partner in partnership, or a person with executive managerial control in a corporation, such as a chief executive officer or chief operating officer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Key participant” does not include a nonexecutive manager, such as a farm, field, or shift manager.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Law enforcement agency” means the Maryland State Police, DEA, or other federal, state, or local law enforcement agency or drug suppression unit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“License” means written authorization by the Department permitting a person to cultivate, store, handle, or market hemp in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>Licensed Area.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Licensed area” means the land area shown in an approved licensing application, or, subsequently, in an approved site modification plan, on which a hemp grower plans to cultivate, store, or handle hemp.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Licensed area” includes growing areas, storage facilities, and other areas that are to be used in the grower’s hemp operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>“Licensed grower” means a person possessing a license issued by the Department under the authority of this chapter to cultivate, store, handle, or market hemp.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(28)"> <text>“Lot” means a contiguous area in a field, greenhouse, or indoor facility growing the same variety or strain of hemp that was planted at the same time throughout this area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(29)"> <text>“Map” means a diagram depicting all borders of the hemp operation, including the nearest roads to aid in orientation, the cardinal direction north, and the boundaries of the legally described parcel on which the hemp operation is located.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(30)"> <text>“Measurement uncertainty” or “MU” means the parameter associated with the result of a measurement that characterizes the dispersion of the values that could be reasonably attributed to the measurement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(31)"> <text>Negligent Violation.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Negligent violation” means a failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in complying with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Negligent violation” does not include intentional misconduct.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(32)"> <text>“Nonmarketable hemp” means hemp that exceeds the acceptable hemp THC level.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(33)"> <text>“Official sample” means the pre-harvest hemp sample collected by the Department, in accordance with Department policy, which is used to assess the THC concentration of a single lot of hemp.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(34)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, association, or any business entity by whatever name designated and whether or not incorporated unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(35)"> <text>“Program” means the Hemp Farming Program established under this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(36)"> <text>“Propagule” means a plant or plant part that can be utilized to grow a new plant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(37)"> <text>“THC-A” means tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, a precursor to THC.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(38)"> <text>“USDA” means the U.S. Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(39)"> <text>“Variety” means a group of plants or an individual plant that exhibits a distinctive observable physical characteristic or has a distinct genetic composition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(40)"> <text>“Volunteer plant” means a hemp plant that was not intentionally planted by the person licensed to grow hemp, but results from a previous crop, growing on its own accord from seeds or roots in the years following an intentionally planted hemp crop.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Prohibition Against Growing or Producing Hemp Without a License."> <text>A person may not cultivate or produce hemp under the Program unless the person is licensed by the Department in accordance with this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Contents of Application and Licensing Terms."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Contents. To obtain a license to cultivate or produce hemp under the Program, a person shall annually submit a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental application that provides:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant’s full name, business or residential address, telephone number, and email address (if the applicant is a business entity, the full name of the business, the address of the principal business location, the full name and title of key participants, the email address of that business, and EIN number of the business);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The legal description of the land on which the hemp operation is proposed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The GPS coordinates for the land on which the hemp operation is proposed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A map of the land owned or controlled by the person to be licensed, showing the location, boundaries, and dimensions (in acres or square feet) of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If hemp is grown indoors, the green house or indoor facility used to grow hemp;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If hemp is grown outdoors, each field (by field number) where hemp will be grown (clearly indicating the names or lot numbers of all lots and planning locations) and the entrance to each field;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The facility used to store hemp post-harvest; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Others fields or facilities to be used in the hemp operation;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The portion or portions of the hemp plant or flower that the applicant intends to market, that is, seed, grain, fiber, hurd, or CBD;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A certification that the applicant is at least 18 years of age;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A criminal background report of the applicant and other key participants, prepared by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, dated no more than 60 days before the date of the applicant’s application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Documentation showing that the applicant has the legal right to cultivate hemp on the land (the proposed licensed area) and the legal authority to grant the Department access for inspection and sampling, including deeds, leasing agreements, written agreements by a landowner, or other appropriate documentation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall provide the applicant a reasonable opportunity to amend an application that is insufficient or to resolve any minor violations of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Site Modification. A licensed grower may apply to the Department to alter the approved licensed area. To accomplish this, the licensed grower shall pay the site modification fee and submit a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental application at least 15 days before the proposed modification that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An updated legal description of the land that will comprise the hemp operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Updated GPS coordinates that will comprise the hemp operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An updated map providing the information required under §A(4) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Licensing Terms. By signing and submitting the application, the applicant agrees to abide by the following licensing terms:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The licensed grower shall fully cooperate and assist the Department with all aspects of the administration and enforcement of the Program, including, but not limited to, the application, license, reporting, inspection, and sampling processes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The licensed grower shall permit the Department or any other law enforcement agency to enter the property for the purpose of collecting, sampling, or inspecting hemp plants in the licensed area, whether in the field or in storage, during the licensing period or in the immediate 30-day time period after the license has expired or is suspended or surrendered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If hemp plants test greater than the acceptable hemp THC level or otherwise do not comply with this chapter, the licensed grower shall inspect the property post-harvest and, for the following growing season, pre-harvest, and destroy, as directed by the Department, any volunteer plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The licensed grower shall maintain all records pertaining to hemp production for a minimum period of 3 years, including, but not limited to, the following records:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Planting records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Harvesting records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Sampling and testing records; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Records pertaining to the disposal of noncompliant hemp;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The licensed grower shall keep the records required under §D(4) of this regulation in the State and make them available during normal business hours for copying and inspection by the Department or other law enforcement agencies;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The licensed grower shall submit all required reports by the applicable due dates specified by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The licensed grower shall name an in-State agent for the receipt of notices in enforcement actions for records and other matters;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The licensed grower shall notify the Department within 15 days of any changes to the hemp grower’s operation, including planting, harvesting, testing, or sampling, or any changes to the license holder’s address or other contact information; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>The licensed grower shall pay any fees as required by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Required Certification. The applicant shall certify that the contents of the application are true and correct and that, when licensed, the grower will comply with all of the Department’s reporting requirements and those of USDA and all other regulatory and statutory requirements for producing hemp under the Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Grounds for Denying Licensure. The Department may not issue a license to a person to grow hemp under the Program if the person:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has a felony conviction under state or federal law related to a controlled substance during the 10-year period preceding the date of application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provides materially false or misleading information in the application; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Has not met the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Licensing Period."> <text>A person may apply to become a licensed grower at any time during a calendar year. Unless suspended or revoked, a license to grow hemp under the Program is valid from the date it was issued through December 31 of the same year. To ensure continuity of the license, a licensed grower shall submit to the Department an application to renew the person’s license no later than December 1 of the year that the license is due to expire. A license issued under this chapter may not be assigned or transferred to another person under any circumstances.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Fees."> <text>The following nonrefundable fees apply to hemp growers:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An annual application fee — $50;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An annual license fee — $500;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A fee for each additional location owned or controlled by a grower with a different mailing address — $500;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A fee each time that the Department samples and tests official samples for THC — $250; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A site modification fee if the GPS coordinates listed in the application are changed — $250.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Prohibited Acts."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A licensed grower may not:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Grow or store hemp in a structure that is used for residential purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Plant, grow, or store hemp on any site that is not located within the licensed area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Display or exhibit live hemp plants, viable seeds, or floral materials at trade shows, county fairs, or educational or other similar events without written permission from the organizer of the event;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Allow unsupervised public access to hemp plots or plantings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Sell, transfer, or permit the sale or transfer of living hemp plants or viable hemp seeds to any person in the State who does not hold a license issued by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Sell, transfer, or permit the sale or transfer of living plants, viable seeds, leaf material, or floral material to any person in another state who is not authorized by the laws of that state to own or otherwise possess such products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Comingle hemp plant material from one lot with hemp plant material from other lots unless the lots have been tested and deemed compliant with this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Place in the stream of commerce any hemp grown in a lot that has a noncompliant THC level;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Provide false or misleading information in any report, record, or other document required under this chapter or during the course of an inspection conducted under this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Hinder or obstruct an authorized agent of the Department or any other law enforcement officer from entering the licensed area for the purpose of collecting, sampling, or inspecting hemp;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Violate any of the provisions of this chapter, including, but not limited to, the licensing terms set forth in Regulation .04 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Violate any applicable laws and regulations relating to the use and development of the land for hemp production.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>There is no distance requirement, limitation, or buffer zone between licensed growers and between licensed growers and medical cannabis growers licensed under Health-General Article, §13-3306, Annotated Code of Maryland. No rule may establish such a distance requirement, limitation, or buffer zone without the Department’s evaluation, in consultation with the Natalie M. LaPrade Medical Cannabis Commission, of sufficient scientific data showing impacts to either crop as a result of cross-pollination.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Grower Reporting Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Field Planting Report.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within 10 days after planting, a licensed grower shall submit to the Department a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental Field Planting Report that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The licensed grower's full name and contact information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The license number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The planting date and anticipated harvest date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The hemp's variety name;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The field location ID listed in the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>An updated detailed map depicting any changes; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>The primary intended use of the harvested hemp for each planting.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A licensed grower who does not plant hemp in an approved outdoor growing area listed in the application shall submit a Field Planting Report on or before July 31, stating that hemp has not and will not be planted at that site.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If a replanting of seeds or propagules occurs, the licensed grower shall complete and submit to the Department a new Field Planting Report within 10 days after the planting, providing the information required under this section.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Indoor Planting Report.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within 10 days after establishing plants at an indoor location, a licensed grower shall submit to the Department a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental Greenhouse/Indoor Planting Report that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The licensed grower's full name and contact information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The license number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The planting date and anticipated harvest date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The hemp's variety name; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The primary intended use of the harvested hemp of each planting.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The licensed grower shall submit this report each time hemp is planted in, moved within, or moved into a licensed area, except for replanting into a larger container within the same indoor location.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In addition to completing the initial Greenhouse/Indoor Planting Report, the licensed grower shall submit to the Department quarterly reports for each location ID to the Department no later than March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Destruction Report. Within 48 hours after crop destruction or as ordered by the Department, the licensed grower shall submit to the Department a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental Destruction Report that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The licensed grower's full name and contact information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The license number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The disposal date of each lot destroyed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The method of destruction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Annual Production Report. A licensed grower shall submit to the Department a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental Annual Production Report by December 1 of each year that provides the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The licensed grower's full name and contact information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The license number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The acreage or amount of greenhouse space planted, the planting date, the harvest date, and the varieties grown; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The weight and type of plant material harvested and the plant material being stored and the location of its storage as of the date of the report.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Hemp Crop Acreage Report to Farm Service Agency. A licensed grower shall report information pertaining to the grower's hemp operation with USDA, Farm Service Agency, as required under federal law. This information may include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The license number that the Department issued to the licensed grower;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The street address where licensed grower is producing hemp;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The geospatial location of each lot or greenhouse where hemp will be produced;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If hemp is grown outdoors, the hemp crop acreage, including the total acreage planted and harvested, and, if any portion of the crop is disposed of, the amount;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>If hemp is grown indoors, the indoor square footage or acreage dedicated to the production of hemp; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>If the licensed area is altered in accordance with Regulation .04, updated information pertaining to the site modification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Drug Felony Conviction Report.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within 15 days of conviction of a disqualifying felony offense, a licensed grower shall inform any co-licensees and submit to the Department a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental Drug Felony Conviction Report that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The license number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The date of conviction; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>An acknowledgement that all co-licensees have been informed of the disqualifying offense, if applicable, and the co-licensees have assumed full responsibility for the hemp crop.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Failure to report the disqualifying offense may result in an order of destruction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Record-Keeping Requirements. A licensed grower shall keep and maintain for at least 3 years all information that supports, verifies, or documents all reports required under this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Regulatory Inspections of Hemp Operations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Annual Inspections. The Department shall conduct annual inspections of, at a minimum, a random sample of licensed growers and collect regulatory samples of hemp to verify that hemp is not being produced in violation of this chapter. The Department shall conduct these inspections during normal business hours. The Department may conduct these inspections without notice.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Additional Inspections. If the Department has reason to believe that a violation of the Program is occurring, it may conduct such additional regulatory inspections of a licensed grower’s operation and sampling of hemp it deems appropriate. The Department shall conduct these inspections during normal business hours. It may conduct these operations without notice.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Sampling and Testing Regulatory Samples. When conducting regulatory sampling and testing of hemp under §§A and B of this regulation, the Department shall follow the official sampling methodology and testing requirements set forth in Regulation .10 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Sampling and Testing for THC."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A licensed grower may request the Department or an authorized agent to collect official samples of hemp for testing under §D of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Official Sampling Methodology. To ensure a confidence level of 95 percent that no more than 1 percent of the plants in a lot exceeds the acceptable hemp THC level, official samples collected by the Department or an authorized agent shall be done in accordance with the Department's sampling methodology, which requires that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Samples shall be collected by the Department or an authorized agent;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Samples selected shall be solely determined by the Department or authorized agent;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Samples shall be from the [flower material of the hemp plant;] flowering tops of plants which shall be approximately 5 to 8 inches in length from:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The main stem (that includes the leaves and flowers);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The terminal bud (that occurs at the end of a stem); or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The central cola (cut stem that could develop into a bud);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Samples shall represent a homogeneous composition of the lot being collected, and a minimum of two samples from each lot shall be collected (the number of plants selected for sampling will be dependent on the size of the growing area);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Samples of hemp plant material from one lot may not be commingled with hemp plant material from other lots;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Samples shall be collected during the growing season and before harvest;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>When a scheduled sampling occurs, the grower or an authorized grower representative shall be present at the growing site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The grower shall provide the Department or an authorized agent complete and unrestricted access to all hemp plants and all locations listed in the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>The grower or authorized agent shall take any other action that the Department deems necessary to ensure that the stated confidence level is met;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>If the licensed grower fails to complete the harvest within 30 days, a new sample of the lot shall be collected for testing purposes following the procedures set forth in this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>The Department or authorized agent shall place the composite representative sample in a properly labeled paper bag, seal the bag, and place the following information on the bag or otherwise include it with the sample:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>License number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Name and contact information of the sampling agent;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Name and contact information of the licensee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Date sample was taken;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Sample identification number for the lot;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Field identification number listed in the application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Any other information that may be required by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>The sample and sampling report shall be hand-delivered or placed in a box, sealed with security tape, and shipped overnight to the Department or authorized laboratory.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>All hemp samples collected become the property of the Department without cost to it and are nonrefundable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Testing Requirements. The Department or an authorized laboratory shall test hemp for prohibited THC levels by performing a quantitative laboratory determination of the total delta-9 THC concentration on a dry weight basis. In conducting this work, the following standards shall be met:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Laboratory quality assurance shall ensure the quality and validity of the test results and that the testing method used is appropriate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An appropriate chain of custody shall be maintained at all times;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The official samples shall be dried, the stem and seed shall be separated from floral material and discarded, and the floral material shall be ground;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The ground floral material shall be tested for THC content;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The THC testing procedure shall include a valid testing methodology that uses post-decarboxylation or other similarly reliable methods, including, but not limited to, gas chromatography with flame ionization detection, or liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (The testing methodology shall consider the potential conversion of THCA in hemp into THC and the test result shall measure total available THC derived from the sum of the THC and THC-A content. The total THC concentration level shall be determined and reported on a dry weight basis. MU shall be used in determining the range of the result found.); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A sample test result with a delta-9 THC concentration on a dry weight basis greater than the acceptable hemp THC level is conclusive evidence that the lot represented by the sample contains a delta-9 THC concentration on a dry weight basis of more than 0.3 percent and that the hemp is therefore not in compliance with this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Test Results Report. If an authorized laboratory conducts the testing, the hemp grower shall direct the laboratory to report the test results for all samples tested to the Department and USDA. The test results report shall contain the information below for each sample tested:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Hemp grower's license or authorization identifier;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Name of hemp grower;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Business address of hemp grower;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Lot identification number for the sample;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Name and address of laboratory;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Date of test and report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Identification of a retest; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Test result.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Hemp Greens, Hemp Microgreens, and Hemp Transplants."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Performance-Based Sampling Protocol. For hemp plants that are not intended to be produced to a mature, flowering state (for example, hemp greens, hemp microgreens, and hemp transplants), the Department may utilize a performance-based sampling protocol to determine THC crop compliance. This protocol, which has been approved by USDA, includes seed certification processes and other processes that identify varieties that have consistently resulted in compliant hemp plants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notice to the Department. At planting, the licensed grower shall notify the Department of the grower’s intent and plans for producing hemp greens, hemp microgreens, or hemp transplants, including the grower’s intent to harvest these plants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the licensed grower is intending to produce hemp greens, hemp microgreens, or hemp transplants, the grower may only use hemp seeds or propagules that originate from THC compliant hemp plants. To ensure this, the licensed grower may only use:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Seeds originating from THC compliant hemp plants that have been certified by a member agency of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Seeds derived from hemp plants that were tested during the preceding 2-year period and, for each of these 2 years, deemed THC compliant by the Department, an authorized laboratory, or other USDA-approved hemp program; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Propagules from hemp plants that were tested by the Department, an authorized agency, or other USDA-approved program and deemed THC compliant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the licensed grower is using certified seeds, the grower shall provide the Department copies of the seed tags. If the licensed grower is using propagules, the grower shall provide the Department the test results of the hemp plants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may conduct random testing of hemp greens, hemp microgreens, and hemp transplants produced by licensed growers. The Department may collect samples for determining the total THC concentration. The licensed grower shall have an authorized representative on-site during the site inspection conducted by the Department. If the crop does not meet the protocol for determining crop compliance under this regulation, the licensed grower shall hold the harvest lot until notified by the Department of the grower’s options.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Hemp Microgreens Verification. The Department shall verify that the producer:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtained and used only authorized hemp seed or propagules;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Harvested the crop no more than 14 days after planting;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Only grew hemp plants that were no more than 5 inches in height; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Did not grow hemp plants to a flowering state.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Hemp Greens Verification. The Department shall verify that the producer:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtained and used only authorized hemp seed or propagules;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Harvested the crop prior to the plants being 10 inches in height; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Did not produce a flowering crop.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Hemp Transplants Verification. The Department shall verify that the producer:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtained and used only authorized hemp seed or propagules;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Only grew plants that were no more than 12 inches in height; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Did not grow plants to a flowering state.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>If the licensed grower produces a crop that does not meet the protocol for determining THC crop compliance under this regulation, the grower shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Follow the compliance, sampling, and testing requirements set forth in Regulation .10 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Dispose of the crop.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Records.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Proof of THC Compliance. A licensed grower producing hemp greens, hemp microgreens, or hemp transplants shall maintain for 3 years records showing proof of THC compliance of seeds or propagules used to produce these crops.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sales Records. A licensed grower producing hemp transplants shall maintain for 3 years records showing the name and address of persons to whom the transplants were sold or transferred.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Prerequisites for Placing Hemp in Commerce."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A licensed grower may not co-mingle, transport, transfer, sell, market, process, or otherwise dispose of hemp pending a THC analysis by the Department or an authorized laboratory.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>To place hemp in the stream of commerce, test results shall confirm that the final product batch hemp contains no more than a total 0.3 percent delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis using the method’s determined measurement uncertainty, and all such testing results shall be retained by the grower and made available to the Department upon demand for a minimum of 3 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Hemp samples with a post-decarboxylated THC level equal to or below the acceptable hemp THC level require no further action by the Department. The area or harvested plant material from which the sample was obtained that was harvested within 30 days of the date of sampling may be marketed or further processed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Nonmarketable Hemp."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon receipt of a failing test result, a licensed grower may request resampling and retesting of the varieties in question. If no retest is requested, or the retested sample is greater than 0.3 percent THC, the area represented by the sample, or any harvested hemp from the area represented by the sample, shall be disposed of as provided in Regulation .14 of this chapter. The grower shall retain all such testing results and make them available to the Department upon demand for a minimum of 3 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Hemp plants from lots determined to be nonmarketable (that is, the plants exceed the acceptable hemp THC level) and products derived from such plants may not be further handled, processed, or enter the stream of commerce.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a grower comingles hemp from a lot with hemp from another lot before the test results from any of the comingled lots are made known, the grower shall dispose of all of the hemp if the test results from just one of these lots is subsequently found to be nonmarketable.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Grower’s Duty to Dispose of Nonmarketable Hemp."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The costs of disposal of nonmarketable hemp plants and products derived from such plants are the responsibility of the grower.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The grower shall notify the Department immediately upon receipt of a test report determining that any portion of the crop tests positive for a prohibited amount of THC.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If hemp is deemed nonmarketable (that is, the plants exceed the acceptable hemp THC level), the Department shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notify the grower to stop the harvest and shipment of any plants or plant material harvested from the tested area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Send a representative from the Department to conduct an inventory of the harvested and unharvested plants from the area that was tested;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Offer options for retesting and remediation consistent with remediation guidelines approved by U.S. Domestic Hemp Production Program; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Offer options for disposal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The disposal of hemp deemed noncompliant with this chapter shall render a plant or a product derived from such plant unusable by burning, incorporating with other materials, or other methods approved by the Department consistent with USDA guidelines.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The grower shall notify the Department of the grower’s intent to dispose of nonconforming plants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A representative from the Department or a law enforcement official shall supervise the disposal of any noncompliant hemp plants or plant materials.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The grower shall verify disposal by submitting required documentation to the Department and retain a copy of the disposal record for 3 years.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Sanctions for Violating the Department’s Hemp Farming Program."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §C of this regulation, the Department, upon notice and an opportunity to be heard, may deny a license application or suspend or revoke a license to produce hemp under the Program, if the person:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Fails to comply with the Department's plan for monitoring and regulating the production of hemp;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Misrepresents the legal description of land on which hemp is produced;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Produces hemp without a valid license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Produces plants, or any part of a plant, that exceeds a delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Violates the licensing terms set forth in Regulation .04D of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Provides false or misleading information in any report, record, or other document required under this chapter or during the course of an inspection conducted under this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Hinders or obstructs an authorized agent of the Department or any other law enforcement officer from entering the licensed area for the purpose of collecting, sampling, or inspecting hemp;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Fails to maintain all records pertaining to hemp production required by this chapter and to make these records available during normal business hours for copying and inspection by the Department or other law enforcement agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Fails to submit complete, signed, and accurate reports required under Regulation .08 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Fails to dispose of hemp as directed by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Is found to be growing or in possession of hemp not in compliance with these regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Is convicted of a felony related to a controlled substance under state or federal law;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Cultivates or stores hemp on any site not listed in the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Represents hemp seeds which are indistinguishable by the plant's characteristics to be of a recognized variety, without having adequate information for such variety representation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>Violates any provision of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall deny a license application or suspend or revoke a license to produce hemp under the Program if the person provides false or misleading information in the application for a licensee to grow hemp as provided in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Negligent Violations.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If it determines that a violation is a negligent violation, the Department, in lieu of sanctioning the person as provided in §A of this regulation, may issue a corrective action plan, affording the person an opportunity to correct that violation and come into compliance. A person may not have more than one negligent violation per growing season. A negligent action includes, but is not limited to, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The failure to provide a legal description of the land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The failure to obtain a license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The production of cannabis with the total THC concentration exceeding the acceptable hemp THC level (0.3 percent with MU) unless the person has made reasonable efforts to grow hemp and the cannabis does not have a total delta-9-THC concentration of more than 1 percent on a dry weight basis.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The corrective action plan issued by the Department shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A date by which the person shall correct the violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The action that the person shall take to come into compliance;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>To ensure compliance, a requirement that the person shall report to the Department at a frequency determined by the Department for a period of not less than 2 calendar years from the date of the violation the compliance measures it is taking; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Inspection requirements as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the person fails to implement or comply with the corrective action plan, the Department may proceed to suspend or revoke the grower's license to produce hemp as provided in §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If the Department determines that a person has violated this chapter three times in a 4-year period, that person is banned from producing hemp for a period of 5 years beginning on the date of the third violation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Violations Exceeding Negligence — Immediate Suspension.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the Department determines that a person has violated the Program with a culpable mental state greater than negligence, the Department shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Send a Notice of Suspension to the person, ordering the person to suspend all hemp operations immediately; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Refer the matter to the United States Attorney General, the Maryland Attorney General, or State's Attorney, as appropriate, to enforce the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the Department issues a Notice of Suspension, the grower may not harvest or remove cannabis from the premises where hemp or other cannabis was located at the time the Department issued this notice.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>As soon as possible after the Notification of the Suspension, the Department shall inspect the grower's premises and perform an inventory of all hemp and hemp products that are in the grower's possession.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Department shall schedule a license revocation hearing for a date as soon as practicable after the Notification of Suspension, but in any event not later than 60 days following the notification of suspension.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Notice, Hearings, and Appeals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notice. If it determines that sanctions are warranted against a person under Regulation .15 of this chapter, the Department shall provide the person written notice of the violation via regular mail, certified mail, or personal service that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The facts that are asserted pertaining to the violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The pertinent statutory and regulatory sections under which the Department is taking its action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department's determination whether the person's conduct constitutes a negligent violation or a violation with a culpable mental state greater than negligence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A statement explaining whether the Department has informed law enforcement of the violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The sanction proposed, if any, as a result of the Department's action; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Unless a hearing is automatically scheduled, notice that the person may request a hearing within 20 days from receiving the notice of the violation; what, if anything, the person shall do to receive a hearing; and the direct consequences, including sanctions, if any, of the person's failure to exercise in a timely manner the opportunity for a hearing or to appear for a scheduled hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>To receive a hearing on the matter set forth in the Notice of Violation, the person shall submit a written request for a hearing to the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Hemp Farming Program, 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. If the person fails to submit a written request in a timely manner, the notice of violation shall become final and the Department may impose the proposed sanction stated in the notice.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Hearings. Hearings under this regulation shall be in accordance with the Maryland Administrative Procedure Act and COMAR 15.01.01.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Appeals. A person aggrieved by a decision of the Department under this chapter, including a decision to deny an application for a license, or to suspend or revoke a license, may appeal the decision to the circuit court pursuant to the Maryland Rules of Civil Procedure.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Department Reports to USDA."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>By the first of each month, the Department shall file with USDA a report on each licensed grower with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For each new licensee that is an individual, the report shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The full name of the individual;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The license number and status;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The business address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Telephone number and email address (if applicable); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A legal description and GPS coordinates for each field, greenhouse, indoor growing structure, or site where industrial hemp will be cultivated, handled, or stored.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For each new licensee that is a business entity, the report shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The full name of the business entity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The license number and status;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The principal business location address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The full name, title, and email address (if applicable) of each person for whom the entity is required to submit a criminal background check; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A legal description and GPS coordinates for each field, greenhouse, indoor growing structure, or site where industrial hemp will be cultivated, handled or stored.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For each licensee that was included in a previous report and whose reported information has changed, the report shall include the previously reported information and the new information, including the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The status of each grower and seed producer's license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The period covered by the report; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Indication whether there were changes during the current reporting cycle if applicable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>By the first of each month, the Department shall file with USDA a report of any occurrence among licensed hemp growers where hemp plants or plant parts have exceeded the acceptable THC levels as provided in this chapter with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The name and address of the licensee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Producer license number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Location information, such as a lot number, location type, and GPS coordinates or other location descriptor for the production area subject to hemp disposal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Information on the agent handling the disposal; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Documentation or traceability from seed acquisition to harvest or crop termination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In addition to the hemp disposal report described in §B of this regulation, the Department shall promptly notify USDAs Agricultural Marketing Service of any occurrence of hemp plants that do not meet the definition of hemp as provided in this chapter or products derived from such plants. Records shall be attached to the report demonstrating that the proper disposal methods were followed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>By December 15 of each year, the Department shall submit an annual report to USDA that provides the following information under the Program:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Total planted acreage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Total harvested acreage; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Total acreage disposed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Any report filed by the Department with USDA shall be submitted using a digital form compatible with USDAs sharing systems, whenever possible.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Public Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any public record held by the Department is subject to inspection and release only as provided by the Maryland Public Information Act.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall release to USDA record information about each hemp grower in a timely manner, as required by the United States Secretary of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Criminal Penalties."> <text>In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a person who violates this chapter may be subject to criminal penalties under Agriculture Article, §12-101 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".20" heading="Enforcement."> <text>The Department shall report a person to the United States Attorney General and the Maryland Attorney General who knowingly:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Fails to comply with the Department's plan for monitoring and regulating the production of hemp;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Misrepresents the legal description of land on which hemp is produced;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Produces hemp without a valid license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Produces plants, or any part of a plant, that exceeds a delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Knowingly violates any provisions of Agriculture Article, Title 14, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".21" heading="Sampling Guidelines."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For purposes of determining the number of individual plants to select for sampling, the size of the growing area set forth in the chart below shall be followed. For sampling purposes, samples from separate lots shall be kept separate and may not be comingled.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The authorized agent shall walk at right angles to the rows of plants, if possible, beginning at one point of the lot and walking towards another point on the opposite side of the lot. If the lot is too dense for this to be possible, the authorized agent shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a sample is collected that represents a homogeneous composition of the lot by avoiding edges and thoroughfares.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>While walking through the growing area, the authorized agent shall cut the number of inflorescences (the flower or bud of a plant) based on the acreage of the growing area at random but convenient distances, and avoid collecting sample specimens from the borders of the field/greenhouse.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The cut shall be obtained from the flowering tops of plants when flowering tops are present and shall be approximately 5 to 8 inches in length from the “main stem” (that includes the leaves and flowers), “terminal bud” (that occurs at the end of a stem), or “central cola” (cut stem that develops into a bud) of the flowering top of the plant.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §14-307, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November 1, 2020 (47:21 Md. R. 904)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective October 4, 2022 (49:22 Md. R. 976); emergency provision expired</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective April 16, 2023 (50:9 Md. R. 375); emergency provision expired</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective August 7, 2023 (50:1 Md. R. 683)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="18" heading="Farmers' Market Nutrition Program — Appeal Procedure"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter sets forth the appeal procedure for the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) and the WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (WIC FMNP). The SFMNP and the WIC FMNP are segments of the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP). The Maryland Department of Agriculture administers SFMNP in the State. The Maryland Department of Health assists the Department in administering the WIC FMNP in the State. The FMNP, a federal-State partnership with USDA, is designed to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide FMNP recipients with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Increase the domestic consumption of agricultural commodities through farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community supported agricultural programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This chapter, as required under 7 CFR §248.16 for the WIC FMNP and 7 CFR §249.16 for the SFMNP, establishes a procedure for the following persons to appeal certain adverse actions of the Maryland Department of Agriculture in its administration of the FMNP:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>SFMNP applicants and recipients;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Local agencies assisting in implementing the SFMNP; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Farmers participating in the SFMNP and the WIC FMNP and who have applied to participate in these programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Maryland Department of Health has adopted a procedure for the following persons to appeal certain adverse actions it takes in administering its portion of the WIC FMNP:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>WIC FMNP recipients; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Local agencies assisting in distribution of the WIC FMNP.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program” or “FMNP” means the Senior FMNP and the WIC FMNP.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Local agency” means a nonprofit entity or local government agency that certifies eligible SFMNP recipients, issues SFMNP coupons, or provides nutrition education or information on operational aspects of the SFMNP to SFMNP recipients.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program” or “SFMNP” means the Federal-State partnership between USDA and the Department in which USDA provides federal funds to the Department to administer a program designed to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Provide SFMNP recipients access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Increase the domestic consumption of agricultural commodities through farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community supported agricultural programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“SFMNP recipient” means an individual, as defined under 7 CFR §249.6, as amended, who is eligible to receive benefits under the SFMNP.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“USDA” means the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“WIC FMNP” means a Federal-State partnership that USDA has with the Department in which USDA provides federal funds to the Department to administer a program designed to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Provide WIC FMNP recipients access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Increase the domestic consumption of agricultural commodities through farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community supported agricultural programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“WIC FMNP recipient” means a pregnant woman, breastfeeding woman, postpartum woman, infant, or child who is receiving benefits under the Program, and the breastfed infant of a breastfeeding woman participant under the WIC Program authorized under §17 of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, as amended.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Appealing Adverse Actions to the Secretary."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>SFMNP applicants. An SFMNP applicant may appeal the denial of certification of SFMNP benefits unless the denial is solely because of the lack of sufficient funding to provide SFMNP benefits to all eligible applicants. While awaiting the hearing, the SFMNP applicant may not receive SFMNP benefits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>SFMNP Participants.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An SFMNP recipient may appeal the disqualification or suspension of SFMNP benefits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Excepting an SFMNP recipient whose certification period has already expired or who become otherwise ineligible for SFMNP benefits, an SFMNP recipient who appeals the termination of benefits within the period of time provided under Regulation .05 of this chapter shall continue to receive SFMNP benefits until the Secretary reaches a decision or the certification period expires, whichever occurs first.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An SFMNP recipient who becomes ineligible during a certification, or whose certification period expires, may appeal the termination. While awaiting the hearing, the SFMNP recipient may not receive new benefits.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A local agency may appeal an action disqualifying it from participating in the SFMNP.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A farmer may appeal an action:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Denying that person’s application to participate in the WIC FMNP or SFMNP;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Imposing a sanction under the WIC FMNP or SFMNP; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Disqualifying that person from participating in the WIC FMNP or SFMNP.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Matters Not Subject to Appeal."> <text>A farmer or local agency may not appeal the expiration of a contract or agreement with the Department in connection with the WIC FMNP or SFMNP under this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Time Limit for Requesting a Hearing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except a farmer participating in the WIC FMNP, a person who is the subject of an adverse action listed in Regulation .03 of this chapter (for example, the SFMNP applicant or recipient, a local agency, or a farmer participating in the SFMNP) shall file a written request for a hearing with the Department within 30 days from the date that the Department mails or otherwise issues the notice of the action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A farmer participating in the WIC FMNP shall file a written request for a hearing with the Maryland Department of Health within 10 days from the date that the Department mails or otherwise issues the notice of action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall consider a request for a hearing filed on the earlier of the dates it is:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Received by the Department, such as by delivery by the person; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Postmarked by the United States Postal Service.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Postponement Pending Decision."> <text>If the Department finds that an adverse action that affects a local agency or farmer may unduly inconvenience SFMNP or WIC FMNP recipients, the Department may postpone the action until a decision in the appeal is rendered.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Procedure."> <text>If the Department takes one of the adverse actions listed in Regulation .03 of this chapter, it shall provide the person affected (for example, the SFMNP applicant or recipient, a local agency, or a farmer) with the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>15 calendar days in advance of the effective date of the adverse action, written notification of the adverse action, the cause for the action, and the effective date of the action, including the Department’s determination of whether the action shall be postponed under Regulation .06 of this chapter if it is appealed, and the opportunity for a hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The opportunity to appeal the Department’s action within the time limits set forth in Regulation .05 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>10 business days advance notice of the time and place of the hearing to provide all parties involved sufficient time to prepare for the hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The opportunity to present the person’s case and at least one opportunity to reschedule the hearing date upon specific request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The opportunity to confront and cross-examine adverse witnesses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The opportunity to be represented by counsel or, in the case of an SFMNP recipient, by a representative designated by the recipient, if desired;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The opportunity to review the case record before the hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Written notification of the decision in the appeal, within 60 days from the date of receipt of the request for a hearing by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Department’s Decision."> <text>The Department’s action shall rest solely on the evidence presented at the hearing and the statutory and regulatory provisions governing such hearings. The basis for the Department’s decision shall be stated in writing.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Continuing Responsibilities."> <text>When a farmer or local agency appeals an adverse action and is permitted to continue in the FMNP while the appeal is pending, the farmer or local agency continues to be responsible for compliance with all FMNP regulations and the terms of the written agreement or contract with the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Judicial Review."> <text>An SFMNP applicant or recipient, a local agency, or a farmer affected by an adverse decision of the Secretary may file a petition for judicial review in the appropriate circuit court as required by the Maryland Rules of Procedure.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Mediation."> <text>If a person affected by an adverse action of the Department has filed an appeal with the Secretary, the person may request that the appeal process be paused for 60 days to attempt to resolve the matter through the Department’s Mediation Program. If the matter is not resolved through mediation by the end of the 60-day period, the appeal process shall resume.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-103, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.11 adopted as an emergency provision effective September 10, 2021 (48:19 Md. R. 799); emergency provision expired effective March 8, 2022</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.11 adopted effective April 4, 2022 (49:7 Md. R. 469)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective January 22, 2024 (51:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective January 22, 2024 (51:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective January 22, 2024 (51:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective January 22, 2024 (51:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07A, B, C amended effective January 22, 2024 (51:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 amended effective January 22, 2024 (51:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="19" heading="Certified Local Farm Enterprise Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General — Purpose."> <text>Each procurement agency shall structure its procurement procedures for food to try to achieve an overall goal of 20 percent of the unit’s total dollar value of all such procurement contracts made directly or indirectly from Certified Local Farm Enterprises.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter applies to every procurement of food by a procurement agency.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Certification” means a determination by the Office for the Certified Local Farm Enterprise Program through the procedures outlined in this chapter that a legal entity is a Certified Local Farm Enterprise for purposes of these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Certified Local Farm Enterprise” means a local farm enterprise that holds a certification issued by the Office for the Certified Local Farm Enterprise Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Food” or “food product” means any locally grown agricultural, horticultural, vegetable, or fruit product of the soil, including livestock, meats, poultry, eggs, dairy products, nuts, honey, and every food product of a farm, a forest, an orchard, a garden or water.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Locally grown” means food grown in Maryland or within 50 miles of the Maryland State border.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Office” means the Office for the Certified Local Farm Enterprise Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Procurement agency” means a principal department or independent unit of the Executive Branch of the State, not otherwise exempted from application of this chapter, that is authorized under State law to procure food.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Program” means the Certified Local Farm Enterprise Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Solicitation” means public notice of a solicitation for bids, offers, or expressions of interest which contains the nature of the procurement, relevant dates, the availability of solicitation documents, if any, and other pertinent information. The notice may consist of, but is not limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Legal advertisement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Newspaper notice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Bid board notice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Bid or proposal documents including the invitation for bids or request for proposals; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>eMaryland Marketplace notice.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Criteria to Become a Certified Local Farm Enterprise."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>To become a Certified Local Farm Enterprise, the Office need only determine that a local farm enterprise meets the nutrient management requirements established under Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland. No other criteria shall be required for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Office shall certify and decertify local farm enterprises through a single process, which may occur by mail, hand-delivery, or electronic application on a form created by the Office. The Office may decertify a local farm enterprise that no longer meets the nutrient management requirements established under Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Office may consider initial applications for certification at any time. The Office shall re-certify local farm enterprises on an annual basis in January of each year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Office may decertify any local farm enterprise if the Department determines that a local farm enterprise does not meet the nutrient management requirements established under Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Central Directory."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Office shall publish and maintain in an electronic format available to the general public through the internet a Central Directory of local farm enterprises it has certified under this chapter. The Central Directory shall specify the type of food primarily provided by and the date of certification of the Certified Local Farm Enterprise and shall include the address, phone number, and contact person for the Certified Local Farm Enterprise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Central Directory shall include all contract information available to the Office for the Certified Local Farm Enterprise, except when disclosure is prohibited by State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 6, Part III, Annotated Code of Maryland, and the certification number of the local farm enterprise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Central Directory may include other information the Office considers necessary or appropriate to encourage participation in the procurement process by Certified Local Farm Enterprises.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Central Directory:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Shall be continuously updated each year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Shall identify the date of certification for each local farm enterprise that has obtained certification during the previous calendar year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Shall include a list of all local farm enterprises that have become ineligible to participate in the Program in the previous calendar year because they have been decertified; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>May not include any local farm enterprise that has a pending certification application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Procurement Solicitations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>To attain the Certified Local Farm Enterprise purpose under Regulation .01 of this chapter, a procurement agency shall set an overall Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation goal of 20 percent of the unit's total dollar value of all procurement contracts for food.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Prebid and Preproposal Conferences. When prebid or preproposal conferences are held, the procurement agency shall explain the Certified Local Farm Enterprise provisions of the solicitation, the documentation required, and their relationship to the determinations that will be made in connection with the evaluation process.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Waiver."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An agency head may waive any of the provisions of Regulation .06 of this chapter for a sole-source, expedited, or emergency procurement in which the public interest cannot reasonably accommodate use of those procedures.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If, for good reason, the apparent successful bidder or offeror is unable to achieve the overall Certified Local Farm Enterprise contract goal, the bidder or offeror shall submit to the procurement agency the following documentation in support of a waiver request:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A detailed statement of the efforts made to utilize Certified Local Farm Enterprises;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A detailed statement of the efforts made to contact and negotiate with Certified Local Farm Enterprises, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The names, addresses, dates, and telephone and certification numbers of Certified Local Farm Enterprises contacted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A description of the information provided to Certified Local Farm Enterprises contacted regarding any solicitation; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A list of Certified Local Farm Enterprises found to be unavailable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A procurement agency may only grant a waiver of a Certified Local Farm Enterprise contract goal upon a reasonable demonstration by the bidder or offeror that Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation was unable to be obtained, or was unable to be obtained at a reasonable price, and if the agency head or designee determines that the public interest is served by a waiver. In making a determination under this section, the agency head or designee may consider supply estimates, food prices, general market availability, and availability of Certified Local Farm Enterprises in the area where the food is to be supplied, other bids or offers substantiating significant variances between Certified Local Farm Enterprises and noncertified suppliers, and their impact on the overall cost of the contract to the State and any other relevant factor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Office may waive any of the requirements of this chapter for a sole-source, expedited, or emergency procurement in which the public interest cannot reasonably accommodate use of the requirements in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>When a waiver is granted, one copy of the waiver determination and the reasons for the determination shall be kept by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Not later than July 31 of each year, the Office shall submit directly to the Board of Public Works an Annual Report of Waivers Granted under this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The report required under §F of this regulation shall contain the following information on those contracts where Certified Local Farm Enterprise goals are present and one or more waiver requests have been approved:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The contract titles, numbers, and dates;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The number of waiver requests received;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The number of waiver requests granted; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other information specifically requested by the Board of Public Works.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The Board of Public Works shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Retain a copy of the Annual Report of Waivers Granted; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Forward a copy of the Annual Report of Waivers Granted to the Senate Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee and the House Health and Government Operations Committee on or before October 1 of each year.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Amendment of Procurement Bid."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If, at any time after submission of a bid or proposal and before execution of a contract, a bidder or offeror determines that a Certified Local Farm Enterprise listed on the Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation schedule has become or will become unavailable or ineligible to provide the food products required under the contract, then the bidder or offeror:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within 72 hours of making the determination, shall provide written notice to the procurement officer; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Within 5 business days of making the determination, may make a written request to the procurement officer to amend the Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation portion of the bid.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For purposes of this regulation, “ineligible” means a farm enterprise may not be counted toward meeting the goal of 20 percent of the unit's total dollar value of a procurement contract because the farm enterprise is no longer certified by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The request to amend the Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An explanation of the reason for excluding the ineligible supplier;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The name of each Certified Local Farm Enterprise that will substitute for the ineligible supplier; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A full description of the bidder's or offeror's efforts to substitute another Certified Local Farm Enterprise to supply the food that the unavailable or ineligible Certified Local Farm Enterprise would have supplied.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If a bidder or offeror cannot designate a substitute Certified Local Farm Enterprise for an ineligible supplier, the bidder or offeror’s bid may be disqualified.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If, during the term of a procurement contract, a Certified Local Farm Enterprise becomes decertified, the bidder or offeror shall designate within 30 calendar days a substitute Certified Local Farm Enterprise to complete the contract obligations.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Compliance."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each procurement agency is responsible for ensuring compliance with Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation goals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>To ensure compliance with Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation goals, each procurement agency shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Verify that the Certified Local Farm Enterprises listed in the Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation contract are actually providing farm products and receiving required compensation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Monitor and collect data on contractor compliance with Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation goals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The contractor shall permit the procurement agency to inspect any relevant matter, including records.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Upon determining that a contractor did not make good faith efforts to comply with Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation goals, the procurement agency shall notify the contractor in writing of its findings and shall specify what corrective actions are required. The contractor shall initiate the corrective actions within 10 calendar days and complete them within the time specified by the procurement agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If a procurement agency determines that material noncompliance with local farm enterprise contract provisions exists and that the contractor refuses or fails to take the corrective action required by the procurement agency, then the following sanctions may be invoked:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Termination of the contract;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Referral to the Office of the Attorney General for appropriate action; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Initiation of any other specific remedy identified by contract.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Upon completion of any contract, the procurement agency shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Prepare a report that compares the dollar value of the payments actually received by Certified Local Farm Enterprises with the dollar value of the amount that Certified Local Farm Enterprises were intended to have received under the contract's Certified Local Farm Enterprise participation goal; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Include in the report an explanation of any discrepancy.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A procurement agency may use any other compliance mechanism authorized by contract or this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Reporting."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year, each procurement agency shall report to the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A report under this regulation for the preceding fiscal year shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>State the total number and value of procurement contracts for food, as applicable, between the procurement agency; and</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A Certified Local Farm Enterprise; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A primary contractor, showing the number and value of contracts that the primary contractor has with Certified Local Farm Enterprises;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>State the percentage that those procurement contracts for food in §B(1) of this regulation represents of the total number and value of procurement contracts for food awarded by the procurement agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>State the total number and the names of Certified Local Farm Enterprises that participated in procurement contracts for food awarded by the procurement agency; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>For each Certified Local Farm Enterprise included in the report under §B(3) of this regulation, list all procurement contracts for food awarded by the procurement agency to the Certified Local Farm Enterprise or a vendor who has contracted with a Certified Local Farm Enterprise, including a description of the contract.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Reports required by this regulation shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In a form prescribed by the Office; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Approved by the Board of Public Works.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-103; State Finance and Procurement Article, §14-704; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.10 adopted as an emergency provision effective December 16, 2021 (49:2 Md. R. 76); adopted permanently effective April 4, 2022 (49:7 Md. R. 469)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="20" heading="Urban Agriculture Water and Power Infrastructure Grant Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>This chapter establishes the Urban Agriculture Water and Power Infrastructure Grant Program. The purpose of the Program is to increase the viability of urban farming and community and to improve access to urban-grown foods.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <text>A In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> <text>B Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Eligible cost” means a cost that the Department determines is necessary for the purchase and installation of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Water meters;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Water pipes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Irrigation hoses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Electric meters;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Electric lines; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Any other equipment associated with water supply and irrigation or electric power access that may be required to provide water or electrical power to operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Farm product” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any agricultural, horticultural, vegetable, or fruit product of the soil, whether raw or canned, frozen, dried, pickled, or otherwise processed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Livestock, meats, marine food products, poultry, eggs, or dairy products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Wool, hides, feathers, nuts, or honey; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any product of farm, forest, orchard, garden, or water.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Program” means the Urban Agriculture Water and Power Infrastructure Grant Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Project” means the installation of equipment associated with water supply and irrigation or electric power access to provide water or electrical power to a farm or community garden in an urban area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Qualified nonprofit organization” means a nonprofit organization that is organized and operated exclusively for exempt purposes under §501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and operates a farm or community garden in an urban area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Urban agricultural producer” means any person that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Annually produces farm products in an urban area; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Sells, plans to sell, or normally would have sold at least $1,000 annually of farm products produced from a farming operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Urban area” means an area of the State delineated as an urban area by the U.S. Census Bureau set forth in “Urban Area Criteria for the 2020 Census—Final Criteria”, at 87 Federal Register 16706 (March 24, 2022).</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility."> <text>An urban agricultural producer or qualified nonprofit organization is eligible to apply for financial assistance under the Program to install equipment associated with water supply and irrigation or electric power access to provide water or electrical power to a farm or community garden in an urban area.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Procedures."> <text>A person who applies for cost-sharing funds under the Program shall submit to the Department the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An application on a Department form, including a project narrative describing the proposed project, which shall include an approximate total project cost figure based on all eligible costs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A map identifying the project location, street address and parcel boundaries of the operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For a nonprofit organization:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A favorable determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service that the organization meets the requirements of §501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A letter of good standing with the State of Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Documentation supporting the sale or anticipated sale of at least $1,000 annually of farm products from the farming operation in the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Except for an individual applying on the individual’s own behalf, documentation establishing that person’s authority to sign on behalf of the organization on all matters related to the Program; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A completed Current Nutrient Management Plan Certification form or Nutrient Management Plan Waiver, as applicable.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application Review and Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Department Approval or Disapproval of Application.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the Department approves a project, it shall base the amount of State cost-sharing funds on:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The eligibility of the applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The lack of existing water or power infrastructure to the operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Department shall disapprove an application for any of the following reasons:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The application is incomplete or does not comply with these regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The applicant’s land is not used for agricultural purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The application is for a project which is already under construction; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>No funds are available.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 30 days, the Department shall notify the applicant if an application is approved. If the application has been approved, the Department shall inform the applicant of the estimated State cost-sharing amount for the project and the applicant’s required matching amount. If the application has not been approved, the Department shall inform the applicant of the reason it has been denied.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Cost-Sharing Agreement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department and the applicant shall execute an agreement. The agreement, among other things, shall obligate the applicant to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Establish, construct, or install utilities in accordance with the jurisdictions permit specifications;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maintain the utility for at least five years from date of completion;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Bind any successor in title for the life of the project as specified in the agreement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Provide any required funds for the project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before the Department executes a cost-sharing agreement with a farm tenant, it shall obtain the consent of the landlord to the terms and conditions of the agreement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Project Establishment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After all parties execute a cost-sharing agreement, an applicant shall begin the approved project.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The applicant shall be responsible for all steps in completing the project, including, but not limited to, obtaining any necessary permits and the services of contractors or obtaining any necessary materials or equipment to complete project construction.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Distribution of Cost-Sharing Funds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The applicant who executes a cost-sharing agreement shall be paid in accordance with the following payment schedule:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon receipt of all required construction permits, up to 25 percent of the estimated costs as outlined in the cost-sharing agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Upon commencement of construction, up to 50 percent of estimated costs as outlined in the cost-sharing agreement minus any payment made previously; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Upon completion of project and satisfactory final inspection, 87.5 percent of realized eligible costs minus any payments made previously.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Except for payments described in §A(1) and (2) of this regulation, the applicant shall document all eligible costs on an itemized statement. Each itemized cost shall be supported by payment receipts or unpaid invoices from vendors. Each receipt shall be signed by the person who executes a cost-sharing agreement and certified that each cost is true and correct to the best of that person's knowledge. Each payment receipt or unpaid invoice shall show the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Vendor names;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Type of material, labor, or equipment used on the project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The unit cost paid for the item, the total amount paid to the vendor, and the date payment was received.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The applicant shall complete and submit to the Department a departmental claim for payment form for each scheduled payment outlined in §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Project Monitoring."> <text>After the Department has distributed cost-sharing funds, the Department shall monitor projects to see if they are maintained in accordance with the agreement. Any violations shall be documented on a departmental form, a copy of which shall be provided to the applicant.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Failure to Establish or Maintain Project or to Have or Comply with Nutrient Management Plan."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the applicant fails to establish, install, construct, or maintain the project in accordance with any agreement executed with the Department, that applicant shall be liable for the full amount of State cost-sharing funds paid for any practice that was not implemented or maintained. However, the applicant is not liable for inadequate maintenance or destruction of a best management practice if caused by an act of nature that could not be reasonably anticipated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the applicant is required to have a nutrient management plan under Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland, and fails to obtain a nutrient management plan or to comply with this plan, the Department may require repayment of the cost-sharing funds it paid towards installation of the project.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Administrative Reporting."> <text>The Department shall submit a report to the Governor, the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee, and the House Appropriations Committee on the effectiveness of the funding provided for the Program by October 15 of each year.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-103; State Finance and Procurement Article, §14-704; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 17, 2023 (50:7 Md. R. 302)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="21" heading="Urban Agriculture Grant Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>This chapter establishes the Urban Agriculture Grant Program. The purpose of the Program is to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Increase the viability of urban farming; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Improve access to urban-grown foods.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Eligible Cost” means a cost:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>To secure real property, limited to 20 percent of the grant amount;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>To make capital improvements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For operating expenses, limited to 15 percent of the amount of the grant; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>That maintains safe, environmentally sustainable, and socially responsible practices.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Farm product” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any agricultural, horticultural, vegetable, or fruit product of the soil, whether raw or canned, frozen, dried, pickled, or otherwise processed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Livestock, meats, marine food products, poultry, eggs, or dairy products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Wool, hides, feathers, nuts, or honey; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Every product of farm, forest, orchard, garden, or water.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Healthy Food Priority Area” means a census tract in which:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>At least 25 percent of the residents qualify as low-income according to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau survey; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Accessibility to supermarkets, grocery stores, or other sources of healthy affordable food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, is limited (which may be determined using measurements and indicators that can be found in the Food Access Research Atlas published by the USDA Economic Research Service).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Program” means the Urban Agriculture Grant Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Qualified nonprofit organization” means a nonprofit organization that is organized and operated exclusively for exempt purposes under §501(c)(3) of the United States Code and operates a farm or community garden in an urban area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Safe, environmentally sustainable, and socially responsible practices” include those that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Aim to minimize negative impacts on the environment such as practices that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Promote soil health;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Prevent soil erosion; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Manage water resources (e.g., utilize efficient irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Ensure fair treatment of workers; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Support local communities by providing locally produced fruits and vegetables.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Socially disadvantaged urban farmer” means an urban agricultural producer who is a limited resource farmer (e.g., a farmer who has low household income and low gross farm sales), and may include a beginning farmer who is similarly situated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Steward” means the owner of the land or a person who has control and possession of the land through a written lease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Urban agricultural producer” means any person that annually sells, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of farm products in an urban area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Urban area” means an area of the State that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Delineated as an urban area by the U.S. Census Bureau; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Within the boundaries of a municipal corporation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An urban agricultural producer is eligible to apply for financial assistance under the program provided the person:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is in compliance with the State’s Nutrient Management Law under Agriculture Article, §§8-801 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Agrees to complete a new farming training course, provides documentation of having completed a new farming training course, or participates in Department-approved continuing education programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A nonprofit organization or an institute of higher education is qualified to receive a grant if the Department determines that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>With respect to a nonprofit organization, the nonprofit organization is incorporated in or maintains its principal place of business in an urban area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The entity will provide urban agricultural producers who receive grants under this Program direct training and ongoing technical assistance in accordance with a program certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The entity works to increase the viability of urban farming and improve access to urban-grown foods.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Procedures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A qualified applicant that applies for grant funds under the program shall submit to the Department the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the applicant is an urban agricultural producer:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An application on a Department-produced form which shall include a budget estimate of the overall eligible costs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A map identifying the location of the operation including its street address and the parcel boundaries of the land on which the operation is situated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Documentation showing that the person annually sells, or would normally have sold, in an urban area at least $1,000 of farm products from the person’s farming operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Except for an individual applying on the individual’s own behalf, documentation proving the applicant’s authority to sign on behalf of the organization on all matters related to the program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A completed Current Nutrient Management Plan Certification form or Nutrient Management Plan Waiver, as applicable; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>A completed IRS Tax Form W-9.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the applicant is a non-profit organization or institution of higher education:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An application based on a Department-approved form which shall include a budget estimate of the overall eligible costs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For qualified nonprofit organizations:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A current IRS Determination Letter indicating its §501(c)3 status under Title 26 of the United States Code; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Evidence of good standing with the State of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Use of Grant Funds.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Limitations. A grant recipient may use a grant under this program to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Secure real property:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>That has established the necessary infrastructure to grow food;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>For which the grantee is the steward of the real property; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>For which no more than 20 percent of the grant money will be used to secure property;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Maintain safe, environmentally sustainable, and socially responsible practices; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Make capital improvements to support viable urban agriculture enterprises.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>To receive a grant under this program, the applicant shall demonstrate that the funds the person receives will provide a measurable community benefit including, but not limited to, improving local food access; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A grant recipient may not use more than 15 percent of the amount of the grant for operating expenses.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application Review and Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department to Approve or Disapprove an Application.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the Department approves a project, it shall base the amount of State grant funds on:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The eligibility of the applicant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Whether, and the degree to which, the project provides a benefit to socially disadvantaged urban farmers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Whether, and the degree to which, the project increases the viability of urban farming;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Whether, and the degree to which, the project improves access to urban-grown foods; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Whether, and the degree to which, the project provides urban grown foods to urban areas designated as a Healthy Food Priority Area.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall disapprove an application for any of the following reasons:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The application is incomplete or does not comply with these regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The applicant’s land is not used for agricultural purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The application is for a project which is already under construction; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The Department has no available funds.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 30 days from receipt of an application, the Department shall notify the applicant whether the application has been approved and the amount of the grant funds awarded.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Grant Agreement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Urban Agricultural Producer.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department and the applicant shall execute an agreement that, among other things, obligates the applicant to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Institute or install the project and to maintain it for the life of the project, that being, 5 years from the date of purchase or installation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Use, follow, or maintain items acquired under the grant as recommended by the manufacturer to promote safe, environmentally sustainable, and socially responsible practices;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Maintain capital improvements as constructed or installed under the grant based on manufacturer’s recommendations for the life of the project as specified within this Agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Demonstrate that the project provides a measurable community benefit including, but not limited to, improving local food access; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>If necessary, provide additional funds on balances to institute or install the project beyond the awarded funding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Before the Department executes a grant agreement with a farm tenant, the farm tenant shall obtain the landowner’s consent to proceed with the project as specified under the terms and conditions of the grant agreement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Non-Profit Organization and Institutes of Higher Education. The Department and the applicant shall execute an agreement, that among other things, requires the entity to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Outline the curriculum for each course being offered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Outline each course being administered in-person, virtually, or combination of both; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Indicate the number of attendees that have received the Program’s assistance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Provide a final report to the Department within 90 days after the end of the grant cycle.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Project Establishment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After all parties execute a grant agreement, an applicant shall begin the approved project.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The applicant shall be responsible for all steps in completing the project, including, but not limited to, obtaining any necessary:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Permits;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The services of contractors to install or complete the project; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Materials or equipment to install or complete the project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Distribution of Grant Funds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The applicant who executes a grant agreement shall be paid in accordance with the following payment schedule:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon receipt of the approval letter, the person may request up to 50 percent of the award as outlined in the grant agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Upon submitting a Progress Report on a Departmental form as set forth in §B(1) of this regulation, the person may request up to 40 percent of the award as outlined in the grant agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Upon completion of the Final Progress Report on a Departmental form as set forth in §B(2) of this regulation, the remaining 10 percent of the award as outlined in the grant agreement can be requested for payment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Reports.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Progress Report. The Progress Report shall contain the following at a minimum:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A narrative describing the work that has been completed thus far;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A plan for remaining work to be completed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A summary of the project budget and schedule;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A list of action items; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A narrative identifying any issues and risks, and what is being done to rectify them.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Final Report. The Final Report shall contain the following at a minimum:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A project summary narrative;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A summary of how the project budget was utilized;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Project Outputs (training events, outreach, sales of farm products and location of sales, etc.);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Project Impacts (number of people benefitted/trained); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Any additional information requested by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The applicant shall document all eligible costs on an itemized statement. Each itemized cost shall be supported by payment receipts or unpaid invoices from vendors. Each receipt shall be signed by the person who executes a cost share agreement and certified that each cost is true and correct to the best of that person's knowledge. Each payment receipt or unpaid invoice shall show the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Vendor, or vendors names and addresses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Type of material, labor, equipment, or item purchased; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The unit cost for the item, the total amount per item, and any payments made to the vendor.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The applicant shall complete and submit to the Department, utilizing a departmental claim for payment form, each scheduled payment outlined in §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Project Monitoring—Violations of Agreement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After the Department has distributed grant funds, the Department shall monitor that purchases are utilized and maintained in accordance with the agreement. Any violations shall be documented on a departmental form, a copy of which shall be provided to the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the applicant fails to comply with any portion of the agreement executed with the Department, that applicant shall be liable for the full amount of State grant funds paid. However, the applicant is not liable for inadequate maintenance or destruction of the items purchased if caused by an act of nature that could not be reasonably anticipated.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Administrative Reporting."> <text>The Department shall submit a report to the Governor, the Senate Budget and Taxation committee, and the House Appropriations Committee on the effectiveness of the funding provided for this Program by December 30 of each year.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-2001 et seq.; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 14, 2025 (52:7 Md. R. 325)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective April 27, 2026 (53:8 Md. R. 356)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended effective April 27, 2026 (53:8 Md. R. 356)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A amended effective April 27, 2026 (53:8 Md. R. 356)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended effective April 27, 2026 (53:8 Md. R. 356)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="22" heading="Class 4 Limited Winery License Exemption for Maryland-Grown Agricultural Products"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter establishes the criteria and procedure for the Secretary to grant exemptions to Class 4 Limited Winery License applicants from the ingredient percentage requirement set forth in Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, §2-206(c)(2)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Class 4 Limited Winery License holder” means a person who holds a Class 4 Limited Winery License that owns or has under contract less than 20 acres of Maryland-grown agricultural products in cultivation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Maryland-grown agricultural product” means any product produced or cultivated on a farm or vineyard in the State other than cannabis or any other product containing tetrahydrocannabinol as defined in Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, §36-1102, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Application for Exemption."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Time of Application. A Class 4 Limited Winery License holder may submit a written application to the Secretary requesting a 1-year exemption from the requirement set forth in Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, §2-206(c)(2)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland, that at least 51 percent of the ingredients used in the annual production of the license holder’s wine are Maryland-grown agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Decision on Application. Within 30 days after a completed exemption application is received pursuant to §A of this regulation, the Secretary shall issue a decision granting or denying the application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Duration of Exemption. An exemption granted by the Secretary under this chapter shall be valid for 1 year following the date the application is granted by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Criteria and Basis for Granting Exemption."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Criteria. In deciding whether to grant a Class 4 Limited Winery holder’s request for an exemption under Regulation .03 of this chapter, the Secretary shall consider how the following events or factors may have affected the person within the year before filing the application:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Weather disasters, including but not limited to excessive moisture, frost, winter kill, or hurricanes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pest pressure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Chemical damage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Steps taken by the applicant to minimize the need for the requested exemption; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Any other event or factor that the Secretary deems relevant for deciding whether to grant an applicant’s request for a 1-year exemption from the ingredient percentage requirement set forth in Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, §2-206(c)(2)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland, including, but not limited to, whether the Secretary:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Determines that the event or factor is deemed to be one that was outside the control of the applicant; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has previously granted the Class 4 Limited Winery License holder an exemption from the ingredient percentage requirement set forth in Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, §2-206(c)(2)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland, and, if so, the number of times that the person has been granted this exemption.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Basis for Exemption. The Secretary may grant the Class 4 Limited Winery License holder’s request for an exemption if the person can demonstrate that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The failure to meet the ingredient percentage requirement set forth in Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, §2-206(c)(2)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland, resulted from at least one of the events or factors identified in §A of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Despite having taken reasonable steps to secure at least 51 percent of the ingredients used in the annual production of the licensed holder’s wine are Maryland-grown agricultural products, the Class 4 Limited Winery License holder is unable to meet the statutory percentage requirement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Secretary may deny a Class 4 Limited Winery License holder’s request for an exemption if the person has been granted an exemption for each of the previous 4 years.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-103; and Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, §2-206; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: December 11, 2025 (52:24 Md. R. 1199)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="02" heading="Board of Review"> <chapter num="01" heading="Board of Review Procedure" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.09 adopted as an emergency provision effective December 19, 1977 (4:27 Md. R. 2099); adopted permanently effective April 7, 1978 (5:7 Md. R. 524)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective January 22, 1990 (17:1 Md. R. 72)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A amended effective May 9, 1983 (10:9 Md. R. 793)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended effective January 22, 1990 (17:1 Md. R. 72)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.09 repealed effective July 4, 2016 (43:13 Md. R. 713)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="03" heading="Weights and Measures"> <chapter num="01" heading="Commercial Weighing and Measuring Devices and Procedures for Testing Packaged Goods"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Specifications, Tolerances, and Technical Requirements for Commercial Weighing and Measuring Devices."> <text>The specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements for commercial weighing and measuring devices used in the State are those adopted by the National Conference on Weights and Measures as published in National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, as amended, as provided under Agriculture Article, §11-203(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Procedures for Testing the Net Contents of Packaged Goods."> <text>The procedures and statistical sampling techniques used by the Maryland Department of Agriculture to test packages for conformance with legal weights and measures standards in this State are those adopted by the National Conference on Weights and Measures as published in “NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) Handbook 133, 2020 Edition, Checking the Net Contents of Packaged Goods", which is incorporated by reference.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§11-203 and 11-206, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 1, 1973</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective January 7, 1991 (17:26 Md. R. 2977); July 20, 1992 (19:14 Md. R. 1285); June 7, 1993 (20:11 Md. R. 916); August 29, 1994 (21:17 Md. R. 1440); May 8, 1995 (22:9 Md. R. 647); August 26, 1996 (23:17 Md. R. 1248); May 19, 1997 (24:10 Md. R. 712); June 29, 1998 (25:13 Md. R. 996); October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1727)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 adopted effective January 7, 1991 (17:26 Md. R. 2977)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1727); August 5, 2002 (29:15 Md. R. 1143); March 6, 2023 (50:4 Md. R. 122)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Packaging and Labeling"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Incorporation by Reference."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following sections of NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) Handbook 130, 2022 Edition, are incorporated by reference:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The section titled “Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation”; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The section titled “Examination Procedure for Price Verification”.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The requirements applicable to packaged commodities that are produced, kept, offered, or exposed for sale in this State are set forth in the section of Handbook 130 titled “Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The requirements applicable to examination procedures for price accuracy in retail stores in this State are set forth in the section of Handbook 130 titled “Examination Procedure for Price Verification”.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§11-203 and 11-207, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 1, 1973</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.13 repealed and new Regulation .01 adopted effective April 17, 2000 (27:7 Md. R. 706)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective August 5, 2002 (29:15 Md. R. 1143); March 6, 2023 (50:4 Md. R. 122)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Method of Sale of Commodities"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Application."> <text>These regulations govern the methods and quantity terms to be employed in the representation, advertisement, and sale of some specific commodities and the advertisement of all commodities relative to use of posted prices. (Agency note: For packaging and labeling requirements refer to the Maryland Packaging and Labeling Regulations.)</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="All Commodities."> <text>If an advertised, posted, or labeled price per unit of weight, measure, or count includes a fraction of a cent, every element of the fraction shall be prominently displayed, and the numerals expressing the fraction shall be immediately adjacent to, of the same general design and style as, and at least one-half the height and width of any numeral representing the whole cents.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Sale from Bulk."> <text>Except as otherwise provided for in Agriculture Article, §§11-308, 11-316, and 11-505, Annotated Code of Maryland, whenever the quantity is determined by the seller, bulk sales in excess of $20, and all bulk deliveries of heating fuel, shall be accompanied by a delivery ticket containing at least the following information:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The name and address of the vendor and purchaser;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The date delivered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The quantity delivered and the quantity upon which the price is based, if this differs from the delivered quantity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The identity in the most descriptive terms commercially practicable, including any quality representation made in connection with the sale;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The count of individually wrapped packages, if any, and if more than one.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Food Products."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Berries and Small Fruits. Berries and small fruits shall be offered and exposed for sale and sold by weight, or by measure in open containers having capacities of 1/2 pint, 1 pint, or 1 quart, dry measure, provided that the labeling requirements of Regulations .03, .05, and .06 of COMAR 15.03.02 (Packaging and Labeling) may not apply to these containers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Butter, Oleomargarine, and Margarine. Butter, oleomargarine, and margarine shall be offered and exposed for sale and sold by weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Flour, Corn Meal, and Hominy Grits. Wheat flour, whole wheat flour, graham flour, self-rising wheat flour, phosphated wheat flour, bromated flour, corn flour, corn meal, and hominy grits, whether enriched or not, shall be packaged, kept, offered, or exposed for sale, and sold by weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Meat, Poultry, and Seafood.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except for immediate consumption on the premises where sold, or as one of two or more different elements, excluding condiments, that comprise a ready-to-eat meal sold as a unit for consumption elsewhere than on the premises where sold, or cooked and ready-to-eat whole chicken or chicken parts that are prepared on the premises, all meat, meat products, poultry, and all seafood except shell fish offered or exposed for sale or sold as food shall be offered or exposed for sale and sold by weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When meat, poultry, or seafood is combined with or associated with some other food element to form either a distinctive food product or a food combination, the food product or combination shall be offered or exposed for sale, and sold by weight. The quantity representation may be the total weight of the product or combination and a quantity representation is not required for each element of the product or combination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Fluid Dairy Products. All fluid dairy products, including whole milk, skimmed milk, cultured milk, sweet cream, and buttermilk shall be sold by fluid volume.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Other Milk Products. Cottage cheese, cottage cheese products, sour cream, and yogurt shall be sold by weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Ice Cream and Similar Frozen Desserts.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Ice cream, ice milk, frozen custard, frozen yogurt, sherbet, and similar products shall be kept, offered, or exposed for sale, and sold by fluid volume.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Frozen yogurt shall be sold or offered for sale by weight, whether or not combined with other condiments, if the amount of the frozen yogurt to be purchased is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Determined by the purchaser; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Dispensed by the purchaser.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Pickles. The declaration of net quantity of contents on pickles and pickle products, including relishes but excluding one or two whole pickles in a transparent wrapping which may be declared by count, shall be expressed in terms of fluid measure. Sales of pickles from bulk may be by count. (See COMAR 15.03.02.06C(2)(c)).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Ice. The declaration of net quantity for ice, whether in block, cubes, flaked, crushed or other form, shall be expressed in terms of weight.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Nonfood Products."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Coatings. Asphalt paints, coatings sold in a viscous state, and plastics shall be sold in terms of liquid measure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Softwood Lumber.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Softwood lumber applies to softwood boards, timbers, and dimension lumber that have been dressed on four sides, but may not apply to rough lumber, to lumber that has been matched, patterned, or shiplapped, or to lumber remanufactured or joined so as to have changed the form or identity, such as individual, assembled, or packaged millwork items.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Definitions.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Boards” means lumber 11/4 inches or less in actual thickness and 1 1/2 or more inches in actual width. Boards less than 5 1/2 inches in actual width may be classified as strips.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Dimension lumber” means lumber from 1 1/2 inches to, but not exceeding, 4 1/2 inches in actual thickness, and 1 1/2 or more inches in actual width. Dimension lumber may be classified as framing, joists, planks, rafters, studs, small timbers, etc.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>“Dressed (surfaced) lumber” means lumber that has been dressed (or surfaced) for the purpose of attaining smoothness of surface and uniformity of size.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>“Grade” means the commercial designation assigned to lumber meeting specifications established by a nationally recognized grade rule writing organization.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>“Matched lumber” means lumber that has been worked with a tongue on one edge of each piece and a groove on the opposite edge to provide a close tongue-and-groove joint by fitting two pieces together. When end-matched, the tongue and groove are worked in the ends also.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>“Minimum dressed sizes (width and thickness)” means the standardized width and thickness at which lumber is dressed when manufactured in accordance with Table 1.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>“Patterned lumber” means lumber that is shaped to a pattern or to a molded form, in addition to being dressed, matched, or shiplapped, or any combination of these workings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>“Representation” means any advertisement, offering, invoice, or the like that pertains to the sale of lumber.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>“Rough lumber” means lumber that has not been dressed but which has been sawed, edged, and trimmed at least to the extent of showing saw marks in the wood on the four longitudinal surfaces of each piece for its overall length.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>“Shiplapped lumber” means lumber that has been worked or rabbeted on both edges of each piece to provide a close-lapped joint by fitting two pieces together.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>“Softwood lumber,” for the purpose of this regulation, means lumber produced from the cedar, fir, hemlock, juniper, larch, pine, redwood, spruce, tamarack, and yew species groups of trees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(l)"> <text>“Species” means the commercial name assigned to a species of trees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(m)"> <text>“Species group” shall be the commercial name assigned to two or more individual species having similar characteristics.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(n)"> <text>“Timbers” means lumber 4 1/2 or more inches in least actual dimension. Timber may be classified as beams, stringers, posts, caps, sills, girders, purlins, etc.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Identity. Representations shall include a declaration of identity that specifies the grade or grades, species or species group, and whether the lumber is unseasoned (green) or dry.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Quantity. Representations shall be in terms of the number of pieces, the minimum dressed width and thickness, the length of individual pieces or the lineal footage, except that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The use of nominal dimensions shall be allowed when used in conjunction with the required minimum dressed sizes and actual length;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>With respect to all invoices, a table of minimum dressed sizes may appear on the reverse side of the invoice, so long as appropriate reference to the table is prominently and conspicuously shown on the face of the invoice.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <aftertext>Minimum standard dressed sizes at the time of manufacture for both unseasoned (green) and dry lumber.</aftertext> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Peat and Peat Moss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Peat and peat moss applies only with respect to organic matter of geological origin, excluding coal and lignite, originating principally from dead vegetative remains through the agency of water in the absence of air and occurring in a bog, swampland, or marsh, and containing an ash content not exceeding 25 percent on a dry-weight basis (dried in an oven at 105° C (221°F) until no further weight loss can be determined).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Declaration of Quantity. The declaration of quantity of peat and peat moss shall be expressed in weight units or in cubic-measure units.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Units.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Weight. Peat and peat moss sold in terms of weight shall be offered and exposed for sale only in kilograms or pounds, or both.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Cubic Measure. Peat and peat moss sold in terms of cubic measure shall be offered and exposed for sale only in liters or cubic feet, or both. If the commodity is labeled in terms of compressed cubic measurement, the quantity declaration shall represent the quantity in the compressed state.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Roofing and Roofing Material.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Roofing and roofing material shall be sold either by the square or by the square foot only.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Definitions.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Square” means the quantity of roofing or roofing material that, when applied according to the directions or instructions of the manufacturer, will cover an area of 100 square feet exclusive of side laps or side joints, provided that, in the case of roofing or roofing material of corrugated design, the side lap or side joint shall be one full corrugation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Square foot” means the quantity of roofing or roofing material that, when applied according to the directions or instructions of the manufacturer, will cover 1 square foot (144 square inches) exclusive of side laps or side joints.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Declaration of Quantity.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>When the declaration of quantity on a package of roofing or roofing material contains the term “square,” it shall include, plainly and conspicuously, a numerical definition of the term “square”; for example, “One square covers 100 square feet of roof area.”</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Common Fractions. The use of the common fraction 1/3 is specifically authorized in the quantity statement of a package of roofing or roofing material when, and only when, used as the common fraction of the “square.”</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Quantity Statement. The primary declaration shall only be in terms of a square or square feet. There is no prohibition against the use of supplementary quantity declarations, such as shingle dimensions, but the weight of the material may not be stated or implied. However, the use of numerical descriptions for rolls of felt roofing material may continue to be used.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Sealants. Caulking compounds, glazing compounds, and putty shall be sold in terms of liquid measure, except that rope caulk shall be sold by weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Fireplace and Stove Wood.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Definitions.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Cord” means the amount of wood which is contained in a space of 128 cubic feet, when the wood is ranked and well stowed. For the purposes of this section, “ranked and well stowed” means when pieces of wood are placed in a line or row, with individual pieces touching and parallel to each other, and stacked in a compact manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Fireplace and stove wood” means any kindling, logs, boards, timbers or other wood, natural or processed, split or not split, advertised, offered for sale or sold for use as fuel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>“Flavoring chips” means any kindling, boards, timbers, or other natural or processed, split or unsplit wood that is advertised, offered for sale, or sold for flavoring smoked or barbequed foods.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>“Representation” means any advertisement, offering, invoice, or the like that pertains to the sale of fireplace or stove wood.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>“Species group” means the commercial name assigned to two or more individual species having similar characteristics (example: oak, hickory, pine, poplar, etc.).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Identity. Representations shall include a declaration of identification that indicates the species group and whether the wood is unseasoned (green) or dry. A representation of two or more species groups shall indicate, within 10 percent accuracy, the percentages of each group.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Quantity.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Fireplace and stovewood shall be advertised, offered for sale, and sold only by measure, using the term “cord” and fractional parts of a cord.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Packaged Natural Wood. Natural wood offered for sale in packaged form in quantities less than 1/8 cord (16 cubic feet) shall display the quantity in terms of cubic feet including fractions of cubic feet or cubic meters including fractions of cubic meters.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Artificial Compressed or Processed Logs. A single fireplace log shall be sold by weight. Packages of these individual logs shall be sold by weight plus count.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Stovewood Pellets or Chips. Pellets or chips not greater than 6 inches (15 centimeters) in any dimension shall be sold by weight. This requirement does not apply to flavoring chips.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Flavoring Chips. Flavoring chips shall be sold by volume.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Prohibition. The terms “face cord,” “rack,” “pile,” “truck load,” or terms of similar import may not be used when advertising, offering for sale, or selling wood for use as fuel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Delivery Ticket or Sales Invoice. A delivery ticket or sales invoice shall be presented by the seller to the purchaser whenever any nonpackaged fireplace or stovewood is sold. The delivery ticket or sales invoice shall contain at least the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name and address of the vendor;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The name and address of the purchaser;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The date delivered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The quantity delivered and the quantity upon which the price is based, if this differs from the delivered quantity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The price of the amount delivered; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The identity in the most descriptive terms commercially practicable, including any quality representation made in connection with the sale.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Sod.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Application. For the purpose of this regulation this section shall apply to all sod, including turf sod, turf plugs and turf sprigs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Definitions.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Sod” means “turf sod”, “turf plugs”, or “turf sprigs” of a single kind or variety or a mixture of kinds and varieties.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Turf” means a live population of one or more kinds of grasses, legumes, or other plant species used for lawns, recreational use, soil erosion control, or other purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>“Turf plug” means a small section cut from live turf of those kinds of turf normally vegetatively propagated (such as zoysia grass), which, when severed, contains sufficient plant material to remain intact.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>“Turf sod” means a strip or section of live turf which, when severed, contains sufficient plant material to remain intact.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>“Turf sprig” means a live plant, stolon, crown, or section cut from perennial plants used as turf.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Quantity.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Sod shall be advertised, offered for sale, and sold by measure or by a combination of count and measure as prescribed by this section.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Turf Sod. Turf sod shall be advertised, offered for sale, and sold in terms of square feet or square yards, as appropriate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Turf Plugs. Turf plugs shall be advertised, offered for sale, and sold in terms of count, combined with a statement of surface area dimension (example: "100 plugs, 2 inch diameter").</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Turf Sprigs. Turf sprigs shall be advertised, offered for sale, and sold in terms of the United States bushel or fractions thereof. (Agency note: Refer to Regulations .02B, C, D, H, .06B, C, F, and G of COMAR 15.03.02. In addition, refer to regulations pertaining to the Maryland Turf Grass Law.)</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Home Food or Nonfood Service Plan Sales."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Definitions. In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings indicated:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Buyer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Buyer” includes both the actual and prospective buyer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Buyer” does not include persons buying for resale.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Contract” means all of the buyer's written agreements at the time of sale relating to the purchase of a home food service plan, except promissory notes or other financing agreements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Food item” means each edible product sold as part of a home food service plan, including, but not limited to, each constituent part or kind of meat cut from a primal source, each kind of whole poultry or poultry part, seafood products, and other similar products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Home food service plan” means the offering for sale to a consumer, in the consumer's home, of any food item, or food item in combination with any nonfood item or services, or both, whether or not a membership fee or similar charge is involved.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Nonfood Item.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Nonfood item” means each inedible product sold as part of a home food service plan, including, but not limited to, paper products, health and beauty products, detergents, cleaners and disinfectants, rolls of wrapping, and similar products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Nonfood item” does not include food items and durable consumer goods such as appliances.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Primal source” means the following cuts:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Round, flank, loin, rib, plate, brisket, chuck, and shank for beef;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Leg, flank, loin, rack (rib), and shoulder for veal and lamb or mutton; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Belly, loin, ham, spareribs, shoulder, and jowl for pork.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Seller” means a person, partnership, corporation, or association, however organized, engaged in the sale of a home food service plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Service charge” means the total price for any additional features, services, and processing associated with the purchase of a home food service plan, whether stated in terms of membership fees or otherwise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Unit price” means the price of a food or nonfood item sold as part of a home food service plan, computed to the nearest 0.1 cent when less than $1, and to the nearest cent when $1 or more. The unit price, exclusive of any service charge or charges, is expressed in terms of the price per unit of weight, measure, or count.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contract and Disclosure Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At the time of sale, or before the sale as required by this section, the seller shall provide the buyer with a written agreement, which shall clearly and conspicuously disclose the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name, address, and telephone number of the seller and the name and address of the buyer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The date of the contract;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The price of the food and nonfood items of the home food service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The service charge or the price of any service charges associated with the home food service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The total price of the home food service plan including the price of the food and nonfood items, and the price of any service charge; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>For sales with a purchase price of $25 or more solicited by the seller, a statement that the buyer has the right to cancel the home food or nonfood service plan contract until midnight of the third business day after the date on which the buyer executed the contract.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The seller shall comply also with all applicable disclosure requirements of the Door-to-Door Sales Act, Commercial Law Article, Title 14, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland. The seller may give the buyer either a separate notice of cancellation or have a detachable notice of cancellation in the agreement. The notice shall be in 10-point boldface type. A separate boldfaced statement of the right to cancel shall be near the buyer's signature. The seller shall orally inform the buyer of the right to cancel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In addition to the disclosures required in §B(1) and (2) of this regulation, the following disclosures shall be given to the buyer in a single document before entering into any written agreement:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A written list of all food and nonfood items to be sold, which shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The identity of each unit and, if applicable, the United States Department of Agriculture quality grade of the item if graded, the primal source, and the brand or trade name,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The quantity of each item sold,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The estimated service size by net weight of each piece of meat, poultry, and seafood item offered for sale under the home food service plan, provided that the estimates may not differ from the actual weight at the time of delivery by more than 5 percent, and that the dollar value of the meat, poultry, and seafood items delivered is equal to or greater than that represented to the buyer, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>The net weight, measure, or count of all other food and nonfood items offered for sale;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A current unit price list stating:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>In dollars and cents, the price per kilogram or pound or other appropriate unit of measure,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The total sale price of each item to be delivered, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Clearly and conspicuously whether there are additional costs disclosed in the written agreement relating to any service charges associated with the purchase of the home food service plan;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If a membership is sold, a written statement of all terms, conditions, benefits, and privileges applicable to the membership; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>If a service charge is included, a written statement specifically identifying the service or services provided and the price charged.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The seller shall provide information about the identity of each unit, quantity, weight, and unit price for each item in close proximity to one another. All disclosures shall be made clearly and conspicuously in a manner likely to be seen and understood by the consumer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Delivery.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At the time of delivery, the seller shall provide a receipt to the buyer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The buyer shall sign the receipt.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The receipt shall disclose the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The identity of the item, and the net quantity of the contents in terms of weight as specified in §B(3)(a)(iii) of this regulation, measure, or count; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The unit price and total sales price of each food and nonfood item, which shall be the same as that specified on the unit price list given to the buyer at the time of sale.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Advertisement of Home Food or Nonfood Service Plans. A person who advertises a home food or nonfood service plan that discloses item pricing information shall set forth, in a clear and conspicuous manner, and not less prominently than for the item pricing information, any service charges or other additional costs associated with the purchase of the home food service or nonfood service plan.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §11-304(c), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 1, 1973</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 adopted effective July 13, 1997 (24:14 Md. R. 1014)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Farm Milk Tanks"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter applies to farm milk tanks that are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Located on the premises of the producer; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Used, or to be used, under an express agreement between the producer and the purchaser for the commercial measurement of milk.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This chapter does not apply to farm milk tanks that are mounted on highway vehicles.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>This chapter does not apply if a fluid meter is used for the commercial measurement of milk. In this situation, the specifications, tolerances, and requirements specified in the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, Section 3.35, apply.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Farm Milk Tank.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Farm milk tank” means a unit for measuring milk or other fluid dairy products, whether stationary or portable. It shall be considered suitable for commercial use only when it comprises:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A vessel, whether or not equipped with means for cooling its contents;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Means for reading the level-of-liquid in a tank, such as a removable gauge rod, surface gauge, or a gauge tube; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A chart for converting level-of-liquid readings to gallons or avoirdupois weight on the basis of 8.6 pounds per gallon.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each compartment of a subdivided tank shall, for the purpose of these regulations, be construed to be a “farm milk tank”.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Specifications."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Manufacturers and installers of farm milk tanks and those using farm milk tanks shall comply with the specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements specified in:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>This chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, Section 4.42, as provided under COMAR 15.03.01.01.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Design of Calibration Chart.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The installer shall make calibration charts in triplicate with one for the purchaser of the tank, one for the purchaser of the milk, and one for the Secretary of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The charts shall bear the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Manufacturer of the tank;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Size of the tank;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Model number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Serial number of the tank;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Serial number of the rod;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Name and address of the owner of the tank;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Date of installation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Date of last calibration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Type of graduations on the rod;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Purchaser of the milk; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Name of the person or firm who calibrated the tank.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Repealed." /> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Tolerances."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Application. The tolerances prescribed in this regulation shall be applied equally to errors in excess and errors in deficiency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Minimum Tolerance Values. On a particular farm milk tank, the maintenance and acceptance tolerances applied may not be smaller than the smallest volume corresponding to a graduated interval at any point on the gauge rod or surface gauge.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Basic Tolerance Values. Basic maintenance and acceptance tolerance shall be as shown in Table 1. (The error at any liquid level of a farm milk tank is the difference between the gallonage shown for that level on the calibration chart and the corresponding gallonage by test. The tolerance is applied according to the volume of test liquid in the tank at each test draft, regardless of the nominal capacity of the tank.)</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Storage of Gauge Rod."> <text>Between periods of actual use for measuring, the producer shall keep the gauge rod stored at room temperature and may not place it inside a farm milk tank.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§11-204 and 11-402, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 1, 1965</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 repealed and new Regulation .01 adopted effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 repealed and new Regulation .03 adopted effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 repealed effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Receiving, Weighing, Sampling and Testing of Milk or Other Fluid Dairy Products"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Permits, Licenses and Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Receiving Station Permits.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Stationary Receiving Stations. A permit is required for each stationary receiving station, such as any building, milk plant, or other non-mobile facility where milk and other fluid dairy products are received from the producer. Upon each permit application for a stationary receiving station, the applicant shall state, under oath, the average amount of milk or other fluid dairy products received daily during the 12-month period preceding the application. If the applicant did not purchase milk for the entire 12-month period, he will state the average amount received during the period when milk was purchased by him. If he purchased no milk during any portion of the previous 12 months, he will estimate his receipts for the period for which the permit is requested.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Farm Milk Tank Truck—Mobile Receiving Station. A mobile receiving station shall be any milk tank truck, trailer, or semi-trailer which is used to receive the producer's milk on the farm. Each milk tank truck, trailer, or semi-trailer shall be considered a receiving station and each purchaser or receiver shall be required to hold a separate permit for each mobile receiving station. In addition to all other information required by the Secretary, the applicant shall state, under oath, the total capacity in gallons of each mobile receiving station for which a permit is required.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Permit Fees.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>General. Each application for a permit shall be accompanied by a fee based on the average daily volume of milk or other fluid dairy products received, in the case of stationary receiving stations, and the total capacity of the carrying compartment(s) in the case of mobile receiving stations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Fee Determination.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Stationary Receiving Stations.</text> <paragraph num="(aa)"> <text>Receiving milk and other fluid dairy products not exceeding 2000 pounds daily—$5</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(bb)"> <text>Receiving milk and other fluid dairy products exceeding 2000 pounds, but not exceeding 40,000 pounds daily—$10</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(cc)"> <text>Receiving milk and other fluid dairy products exceeding 40,000 pounds daily—$25</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Mobile Receiving Stations.</text> <paragraph num="(aa)"> <text>Total capacity not exceeding 5000 gallons—$10</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(bb)"> <text>Total capacity exceeding 5000 gallons—$25</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Posting Permits.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Stationary receiving station permits shall be conspicuously posted at the receiving station for which they are issued.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Mobile receiving station permits shall be kept in the vehicle for which they are issued and shall be available for display and inspection at all times upon request by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Permit Year. All receiving station permits shall be valid for 12 months or any fraction thereof beginning January 1 and expiring December 31 of the calendar year for which they are issued. Permits are not assignable or transferable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Licenses.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>License Obtained by Examination. Every person weighing, measuring, sampling, or testing milk or other fluid dairy products for permit holders shall possess a license issued by the Secretary for that purpose. The license may be obtained by initiating an application and successfully completing any applicable examination required by the Secretary. After a person successfully completes the examination for a license to test and/or to weigh, measure, or sample, he shall receive written notification of that fact. Unless he applies for the license within a 2-year period from the date of examination, he shall be required to present himself for reexamination before being issued a license.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>License Renewal. Unless a person holding a valid license to test and/or to weigh, measure, and sample renews the license within 1 year after its expiration date, he shall be required to successfully complete an applicable examination prescribed by the Secretary before a current license may be issued.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Farm Milk Tank Calibrator.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Registration. All persons, not members of the Maryland Department of Agriculture, engaged in calibration of farm milk tanks located in the State shall be registered with the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>License and Examination Required. All persons desiring to be registered as a farm milk tank calibrator shall initiate the prescribed action to obtain a license to weigh, measure, and sample as a minimum requirement, or obtain a license to weigh, measure, sample, and test. Examinations specifically for calibrators will, in addition to other material, contain subject matter directly related to farm milk tanks.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>License Year. All licenses shall be valid for 12 months or any fraction thereof beginning January 1 and expiring December 31 of the calendar year for which they are issued.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Fees for Examination and License.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Application and Examination Fee; General. Any person requesting an examination and initiating an application for a license to weigh, measure, sample and/or test milk or other fluid dairy products shall pay the prescribed fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Application and Examination Fee; Cost. The application and examination fee shall be $1 for any person seeking a license to weigh, measure, and sample. The fee for any person seeking a license to weigh, measure, sample, and test shall be $1.50.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>License Fee. The fee for a license to weigh, measure, and sample shall be $2. The fee for a license to weigh, measure, sample, and test shall be $3.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Equipment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Glassware Calibration. There shall be a charge of 10 cents per item for milk test bottles, milk pipettes, and cream test bottles inspected and tested by the Secretary. There will be no charge for any equipment inspected and tested during routine laboratory inspections as required by Title 11, Agriculture Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Volumetric Field Test Measures. All volumetric measuring devices used for the calibration of farm milk tanks in Maryland shall be inspected, tested, and approved once each calendar year by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Farm Milk Tanks. Farm milk tanks shall conform to the specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements of the National Bureau of Standards Handbook 44 and any amendments to it, except as otherwise stated in the Maryland Department of Agriculture regulations pertaining to farm milk tanks.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Manner of Testing for Milk Fat Content."> <text>Only procedures approved by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists or American Public Health Association and adopted or prescribed by the Secretary may be used. The Babcock Test or the automated light-scattering method for determining milk fat content of raw, unhomogenized milk are adopted as procedures for the determination of the milk fat content of milk as a basis of payment to producers.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Samples."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Samples—General. The samples referred to in the Agriculture Article, §11-409, Annotated Code of Maryland, may be either fresh or time composite. Immediately before any sample is drawn from any container, the contents of the container from which it is drawn shall be thoroughly mixed for a minimum of 5 minutes. A weigh tank, farm milk tank, or other container from which a sample is to be drawn may not have any partition, division, or strainer which divides it, in any way, into more than one compartment. Each sample shall be put into a container of a type, labeled and stored in a manner, and at a temperature specified by the Secretary. Samples shall, at all times, be under the control of a person licensed as a weigher and sampler or as a weigher, sampler, and tester by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Sampling Procedures—Fresh Samples. When fresh samples (as opposed to time composite samples) are obtained for possible use as the basis of milk fat percentage determinations for producer payment, a representative sample shall be obtained and labeled in a manner approved by the Secretary. The representative sample will be drawn at the time milk is obtained from each producer's farm milk tank, but only by a person licensed under these regulations by the Secretary. A licensee will deliver the sample, with the producer's product, to the appropriate stationary receiving station.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Fresh Samples. When a permit holder or licensee uses fresh samples, a representative sample shall be tested at least 3 times each month for each producer. The sample shall be tested within a period of 1 day after being drawn, if possible, but never later than 3 days after initially being obtained by a licensee. The residue of the representative sample shall be held on the premises where tested in a manner to maintain it suitable for any testing by the Secretary for an additional period of not less than 2 working days. Fresh representative samples shall be of such size that the residue, for any test by the Secretary, shall be sufficient to make two tests. Samples obtained from milk delivered on consecutive days may not be used for tests in determining producer payments.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Fresh Sample Bottles. The sample bottle type for fresh samples may be of a proper style with screw-type, well-fitting, impervious caps or other approved style. Each sample container shall be clearly and distinctly marked with the producer's name or number.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Care of Fresh Samples. Samples shall be maintained, at all times, in an upright position and shall be refrigerated at a temperature not in excess of 40 degrees F or below a temperature which would result in freezing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Sampling Procedures—Time Composite Samples. When using time composite samples as the basis of determination for producer payment, a representative fresh sample will be drawn at the time milk is obtained from each producer's farm milk tank and only by a person licensed by the Secretary in accordance with these regulations. A portion of the representative fresh sample shall be incorporated into an acceptable composite bottle and properly maintained at the appropriate stationary receiving station. The proportionate amount of the representative fresh sample incorporated into the composite bottle each day of shipment will be governed by the relative amount of milk shipped by the producer each day so that an accurate proportion will be established in the time composite sample.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Time Composite Samples. When using or developing time composite samples, a representative and correctly proportionate sample shall be taken from each delivery of each producer (as indicated in §F, above) and shall encompass a period of not more than 16 days. The samples shall contain the correct amount and kind of preservative prescribed by the Secretary. The time encompassed by these composite samples shall be the same for all producers at the same stationary receiving station. All time composite samples shall be tested within 3 working days following the close of the period encompassed by the samples. After all time composite samples have been tested, their residue shall be held on the premises where tested and in a manner to maintain them suitable for testing by the Secretary. These samples shall be held and properly maintained for a period of not less than 7 days. Time composite samples shall be of such adequate size that the residue for testing by the Secretary shall be sufficient for two tests.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Bottles for Time Composite Samples. Bottles used for time composite samples shall be clearly labeled with the name or number of the producer. The label shall be permanently attached to the bottle, or to the stopper provided the stopper is permanently attached to the bottle. Attaching the stopper to the bottle by means of a chain or collar is acceptable. Whenever time composite samples are used, the composite bottle shall be of more than sufficient capacity to contain the total volume of the daily proportionate amount of representative samples for the maximum number of days encompassed by the time composite sample. The composite bottle shall be of a type that can be tightly stoppered so as to prevent evaporation or the entrance of water and may not contain a recessed pouring lip. Stoppers shall be of rubber, glass, or other approved nonabsorbent material. Cork may not be used.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Preservation of Time Composite Samples.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Time composite samples shall be preserved with the recommended quantity of mercuric chloride (corrosive sublimate) or another approved preservative. To aid in dissolving the preservative, necessarily used with a time composite sample, the sample shall be gently shaken or rotated when adding the first proportionate amount of the representative sample obtained from the producer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Thereafter, shaking will be avoided and held to a minimum upon the addition of the subsequent proportionate amounts of representative samples to prevent:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Depositing cream on the walls of the container above the level of the sample; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Churning the sample.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Since the addition of the preservative makes the milk somewhat more difficult to test, the tester should use additional precautions when testing preserved samples to insure proper test results.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Loss of Sample.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Fresh Sample. When the fresh representative sample (as indicated in §B of this regulation) is destroyed or the test results are unsatisfactory, the next consecutive representative sample obtained should be tested.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Time Composite Sample. When the time composite sample is destroyed or the results of the test are unsatisfactory, fresh representative samples from the next three consecutive shipments for every-other-day shippers (producers), or the next five shipments on an every-day basis shall be tested. The payment to the producer may then be adjusted in accordance with the average of the test of the fresh representative samples.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Unsatisfactory Product for Use as Samples or for Testing. Milk, cream, or other fluid dairy products which have been churned or frozen will not be acceptable for use in either fresh sample testing or time composite sample testing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="L."> <text>Cream.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All cream shall be uniformly and thoroughly stirred before sampling.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A permanent record shall be made of each producer's cream and the record shall show the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Name or number of the producer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Quantity of cream, in pounds; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Test results.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The person sampling the cream and keeping the required records shall be licensed by the Secretary in accordance with these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>When a producer has two or more containers of cream in any one delivery or shipment, a separate weight and test shall be made of each container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Composite samples may not be used in testing for fat content of cream when the results of the test are used for payment to the producers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="M."> <text>Testing Cream Samples. Representative samples of cream shall be tested within 24 hours after they have been obtained by a licensee. Subsequent to testing, the licensee shall retain a sufficient amount of the sample to permit at least two tests by the Secretary. These samples shall be held for 2 working days after the licensee has completed the test.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="N."> <text>Test Methods for Cream Samples. When the Babcock method is used for testing cream, the following procedures are acceptable:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To 9 grams of cream, add sufficient sulphuric acid (specific gravity 1.82-1.83) to produce a dark chocolate brown color;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Shake thoroughly and add approximately 5 to 10 milliliters of hot water to stop the action of the acid, swirl the water into the mixture with one or two swirling motions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Centrifuge the material for 5 minutes, add water to bring the fat completely up into the neck of the bottle;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Continue to centrifuge for an additional 1 minute, place the bottle in a hot water bath at 135 degrees—140 degrees F for not less than 5 minutes, add glymol and read the indications in the bottle neck.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="O."> <text>Cream Test Scales and Accompanying Weights.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All scales and any weights, used in conjunction therewith, for weighing cream, milk, or other fluid dairy products shall meet all applicable specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements as published in National Bureau of Standards Handbook 44 and any amendments to it.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A permit holder or licensee shall take adequate precautions consistent with the degree of use and environment to insure that all weighing equipment conforms to all applicable requirements of National Bureau of Standards Handbook 44 in addition to insuring that the equipment is maintained in a clean condition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A permit holder or licensee may not use or permit to be used a cream test scale or balance designed to accommodate more than four cream test bottles at any one time.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Correct Weight, Measure and Test."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Conversion of Volume to Weight. When a volume of raw unhomogenized milk is converted to weight, it shall be on the basis of 8.6 pounds per gallon.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Weighing and Measuring Device Requirements. Weighing and measuring devices used for determining the weight and measure of milk or other fluid dairy products, when the weight or measure is used as the basis of payment, shall meet all specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements of National Bureau of Standards Handbook 44 and any amendments to it. All weighing and measuring devices are subject to test and inspection by the Secretary as often as deemed necessary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Manifest Tag, Quantity Ticket and Record Keeping. The quantity of a lot of milk or other fluid dairy products shall be determined by a person licensed under these regulations and shall be correctly entered on a manifest tag or quantity ticket with the producer's name or number and the date the quantity is determined. When the information recorded on a manifest tag or quantity ticket is transferred to a permanent record, the manifest tag or quantity ticket shall be kept on file for 12 months from the date the information is entered on the permanent record, at a place designated on the permit application. During the 12-month period, the indicated record and manifest tag or quantity ticket shall be open to inspection by the Secretary at all reasonable times.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Producer Receipts and Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Records to be Properly Maintained. Immediately after the milk or other fluid dairy product is weighed, sampled, measured, or tested, a permanent record shall be made by a person licensed under these regulations. The record shall include any and all information that may be required. The portion of the record relating to the milk or other fluid dairy products produced by any person shall be open to inspection by that person or his agent at any and all reasonable times.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notification to Producer. The purchaser or appropriate permit holder shall notify the producer of the results of any individual test within 3 working days after the test is accomplished. If the test is made by the producer's agent, however, the agent shall notify the producer of the results of the individual test on or before the date of settlement for the milk or other fluid dairy products involved. The purchaser or purchaser's agent shall, at each and every time of settlement with the producer, give the producer a statement showing the quantity of milk or other fluid dairy products delivered by the producer to the purchaser during the period for which the settlement is made. When the payment is made on a basis of test, statements shall show the average percentage of the tests and the unit used as the basis for the determination of the amount of the payment. The records of the payment shall be kept on file for a period of 12 months.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Agreement with Other States."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When milk is transferred from farm milk tanks located in Maryland to any mobile receiving station for transportation directly to purchasers located in other states, sampling and testing procedures required by the state in which the purchaser is located, may be used as a basis for payment to the Maryland producer if the out-of-state weighing, measuring, sampling, and testing procedures are substantially equivalent to the procedures required by the Secretary and if prior permission is obtained from the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Permission to use out-of-state weighing, measuring, sampling, and testing procedures as a basis of payment to Maryland producers will be denied where the procedures are not substantially equivalent to the procedures required by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A request for this permission should be made, in writing, to the Secretary giving the names and addresses of Maryland producers who will be operating under the arrangement and, in addition, the name and the address of the purchaser.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Even when this permission is granted, the licensing and permit regulations for mobile receiving station operators and mobile receiving stations obtaining milk from farm milk tanks located in Maryland shall remain in effect with respect to any such arrangement. Any milk delivered to milk plants or stationary receiving stations located in Maryland from producers involved in any such arrangement is subject to Maryland regulations.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §11-402, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 1, 1965</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="06" heading="Calibration and Operation of Automated Testing Equipment Used to Determine Fat Content of Raw Unhomogenized Milk"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>These regulations are to prescribe the methods of calibrating and operating automated testing equipment authorized to be used to measure the milk fat content of raw, unhomogenized milk.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Application."> <text>These regulations shall apply to any automated testing equipment used at any time for the purpose of measuring milk fat content in raw, unhomogenized milk when the results are to be used as the basis for payment to milk producers.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Authority."> <text>In accordance with the authority of the Secretary to promulgate regulations to regulate the receiving, weighing, measuring, sampling, and testing of milk or other fluid dairy products when the results are to be used as a basis for payment to the producer of the products as contained in Title 11 of the Agriculture Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, these regulations are adopted as regulations of the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Automated testing equipment” means any contrivance, machine, or device manufactured for the purpose of measuring the milk fat content of milk or other fluid milk products within the design of the instrument, and approved by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Cooperative” means a corporation or association as defined and construed in the Corporations and Associations Article, §5-501, Annotated Code of Maryland. A cooperative shall be deemed a producer within the provisions of these regulations and shall be entitled to their benefits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Equipment operator” means a person licensed to operate automated testing equipment in accordance with these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>“Person” includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The State, any county, municipal corporation or other political subdivision of the State, or any of its units;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>“Producer” means any person who owns, controls, or operates a dairy herd for the production of milk to be sold or offered for sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>“Purchaser” means any person who pays the producer or the person who pays a cooperative association representing the producers for the milk or other fluid dairy products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>“Reference method” means the method of testing milk for milk fat content that is known as the Babcock Test, provided, that for the purposes of these regulations, all measurements obtained by the Babcock Test shall be read to the nearest .05 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>“Sample” means that representative portion of the producer's shipment that is drawn and placed into a container approved by the Department and used for an analysis of milk constituent content on which payment to the producer may be based.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>“Test” means an official procedure, approved by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists or American Public Health Association as published in the latest edition of their official publication and adopted by the Department, which is used to determine the amount of any milk constituent in any sample of milk or other fluid dairy product. The results of the analysis shall also be referred to as a test.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Licensing Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may not operate any automated testing equipment for the purposes of determining the milk fat content of milk for payment purposes to the producer unless licensed by this Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Any person testing milk for the purpose of controlling the accuracy of the automated testing equipment shall also be licensed by the Department to test milk for milk fat content by the reference method.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Calibration of Equipment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Initial Calibration. Any person seeking to use automated testing equipment for measuring milk fat content in raw, unhomogenized milk as a basis of payment to producers shall first cause the equipment to be calibrated in accordance with these regulations. The Department shall be notified at least 10 State working days before initial calibration is to be conducted. The initial calibration may be performed only after the equipment has been installed and stabilized as approved by the Secretary. The initial calibration shall be performed by the equipment operator under the supervision of the Secretary, in accordance with the procedures approved by the Secretary. Subsequent calibrations shall be performed by the equipment operator in accordance with procedures approved by the Secretary, but need not be under the supervision of the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Method of Calibration.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The equipment operator shall obtain 20 representative samples of natural herd milk which have not been adjusted with skim milk, cream, or any other substance. Each sample shall be a representative mixture of the milk from any herd containing at least 20 cows milking.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The collection and handling of the 20 representative samples shall be uniform and in accordance with milk sample handling procedures as set forth in the regulations of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The milk fat content of the samples to be used as the natural herd milk samples shall be distributed within the ranges of 3 percent to 6 percent of milk fat and, if possible, reflect the expected milk fat content of the milk to be tested by the equipment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The samples shall be first tested for milk fat content using the reference method. Each sample shall be tested in triplicate. These samples shall then immediately be tested using the automated testing equipment and shall be tested in triplicate, using the automated testing equipment. All testing of the samples for purposes of calibration shall be completed within 24 hours from the time the samples were collected from the producer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The milk fat content for each sample as measured by the reference method shall be determined by taking the average of the three tests by that method. The three tests conducted using the automated testing equipment shall be averaged for each sample to determine its milk fat content as measured by that method. All averages shall be computed to the nearest 0.01 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Any sample, in which the fat content as measured by either method varies more than 0.10 percent during the course of being tested three times, may not be used in calculating the standard deviation of difference (Sd).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The standard deviation of difference (Sd) shall be computed by using the averages of at least 18 of the 20 samples tested and applying the (Sd) formula used by the AOAC.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The maximum allowable average difference (D) and the standard deviation of difference (Sd) between the results obtained by using the reference method and the results obtained by using the automated testing equipment may not exceed those established by the AOAC for the make and model of automated testing equipment used. Only automated testing equipment meeting these standards may be used to measure the milk fat in milk as a basis of determining the payment to producers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Operating Procedures."> <text>Once the automated testing equipment has been calibrated in accordance with the initial calibration procedures provided in these regulations, it may be used to determine the milk fat content of raw unhomogenized milk, provided it is operated in compliance with the following procedures:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Control Milk Samples. Milk samples to be used as control milk samples shall be prepared in accordance with the following procedures:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Eight samples of natural herd milk shall be prepared in accordance with Regulation .06.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>These eight samples shall be tested three times by the reference method. The milk fat content of each sample shall be determined by averaging the results of the three tests to the nearest 0.01 percent. They shall contain a milk fat content within the range being tested by the equipment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The samples shall then be tested immediately by the automated equipment. The results of the three tests for each sample shall be averaged as provided in §A(2), above.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If the standard deviation of difference between the average of the results obtained using the two methods does not exceed 0.06 percent, the equipment may continue to be used. If the (Sd) exceeds 0.06 percent, the equipment shall cease being used and be inspected to determine why the (Sd) exceeds this limit, be repaired, if necessary. and then recalibrated in accordance with the initial calibration procedures as set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter. The Department need not be notified as to this recalibration.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>All control milk samples prepared shall be stored at temperatures between 35 degrees—40 degrees F. A control milk sample may not be used beyond 7 days from the date of its preparation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Daily Performance Checks. At the beginning of each day in which the automated testing equipment is to be used, the following tests shall be conducted:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon proper zero adjustment, a performance check shall be made by measuring a control milk sample four times in the automated testing equipment. The results of the first two tests shall be disregarded and the results of the last two tests shall be averaged to the nearest 0.01 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If in the performance check the difference between the milk fat content of the control milk sample and the averaged results of the two tests conducted using the automated testing equipment (D) is greater than 0.06 percent milk fat, the determination shall be repeated using three additional control milk samples, each of which shall be tested in duplicate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the difference (D) of any of the three additional samples is again greater than 0.06 percent milk fat, then the equipment shall be recalibrated according to the procedures provided for initial calibration as provided in Regulation .06.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Use of Automated Testing Equipment to Determine the Basis of Payment to Producers."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When the automated testing equipment is being used to determine the milk fat content of milk as a basis of payment to producers, a control milk sample will be tested by the automated testing equipment once every hour of its operation or once every 50 samples tested, whichever occurs first. If the difference between the milk fat content as measured by the equipment and the milk fat content of the control milk is 0.06 percent or less, the equipment may be continued in use as a basis of measuring milk fat content to determine payments to producers. If the difference is greater than 0.06 percent, the equipment shall cease being used for this purpose and shall be checked in accordance with Regulation .07, above. All test results obtained from the equipment subsequent to the last acceptable check as provided by this regulation as well as all payments to producers based on these tests shall be void. The equipment may not be used for determining payments to producers until it shall have been checked and calibrated, if necessary, in accordance with Regulation .07, above.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Required Records. When automated testing equipment is used to determine payments to producers, the following records shall be maintained on file for a period of 12 months, at the facility where the instrument is operated:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Initial and subsequent calibrations, including the worksheet used in computing the standard deviation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Results of tests used as a basis of payment to producers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Control milk test results required by Regulation .07A, above;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Daily performance checks;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Machine adjustments;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Major maintenance reports;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Other procedural records required by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Records of the preparation of control milk samples as required by Regulation .03.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Inspection."> <text>All automated testing equipment and required records shall be available for examination by the Department during any business hours.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §11-402, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November 15, 1973</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="07" heading="Fees Charged to Test Standards and Other Equipment Used by Technicians"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>These regulations set forth the fees that the Department will charge to test the standards of weights and measures and other appropriate equipment possessed and used by any technician and any agency engaged in the maintenance and repair of weighing and measuring devices.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Cast Iron and Steel Weights — NIST Class F/ASTM Class 5,6,7."> <text>The Department shall charge the following fees to test cast iron and steel weights (NIST Class F/ASTM Class 5,6,7):</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the weight is less than or equal to 50 pounds or 20 kilograms, the fee is $12 a unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the weight is greater than 50 pounds but less than or equal 1,000 pounds, the fee is $28 a unit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a weight requires adjustment, the adjustment fee is $9 a unit.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Test Weight Sets— NIST Class F/ASTM Class 5,6,7."> <text>The Department shall charge the following fees to test a Class F tolerances test weight set provided, however, that the set does not have a total capacity that is greater than 50 pounds or 20 kilograms:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the number of weights in the set is less than or equal to 18, the fee is $80 a set;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the number of weights in the set is greater than 18 but less than or equal to 36, the fee is $120 a set;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the number of weights in the set is greater than 36 the fee is $5 a unit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If a weight requires adjustment, the adjustment fee is $9 a unit.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Other Weighing Services — NIST Class F/ASTM Class 5,6,7"> <text>The Department may provide other weighing services not otherwise noted in this chapter at a rate of $75 an hour</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Equipment Refurbishing."> <text>If equipment needs refurbishing before it can be tested and if the Department agrees to refurbish the equipment, the Department shall do this work at the rate of $60 an hour.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Weight-Moving Equipment for Vehicle Scales."> <text>The Department shall charge $140 a unit to test weight-moving equipment for vehicle scales.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Mass Laboratory Standards."> <text>The Department shall charge the following fees to test mass laboratory standards:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the standard is less than or equal to 5 kilograms, the fee is $25 a unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the standard is greater than 5 kilograms but less than or equal to 30 kilograms, the fee is $60 a unit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the standard is greater than 30 kilograms but less than or equal to 600 kilograms, the fee is $125 a unit.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Other Services Related to Laboratory Standards of Mass."> <text>The Department shall provide other services related to laboratory standards of mass at a rate of $100 an hour.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Volumetric Field Standards—Volume Transfer."> <text>The Department shall charge the following fees to test volumetric field standards:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the standard is less than or equal to 5 gallons, the fee is $45 a unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the standard is greater than 5 gallons but less than or equal to 20 gallons, the fee is $70 a unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the standard is greater than 20 gallons but less than or equal to 200 gallons, the fee is $180 a unit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the standard is for measuring liquefied petroleum gas between 20 gallons and 125 gallons, the fee is $350.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Other Volumetric Calibrations—Volume Transfer."> <text>The Department shall perform other volumetric calibrations not otherwise noted in this chapter at a rate of $75 an hour.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Volumetric Laboratory Standards—Gravimetric."> <text>The Department shall charge the following fees to test volumetric laboratory standards:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the standard is less than or equal to 1 gallon the fee is $38 each;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the standard is greater than 1 gallon but less than or equal to 5 gallons, the fee is $120 each.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Other Volumetric Calibrations—Gravimetric."> <text>The Department shall perform other volumetric calibrations not otherwise noted in this chapter at a rate of $100 an hour.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Thermometry and Calibration Services."> <text>The Department shall perform thermometry and calibration services at a rate of $65 an hour.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Environmental Chamber Services."> <text>For performing environmental chamber services, the Department shall charge as follows:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>$250 per device for use of the chamber; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>$45 per hour for each technician required for testing the device.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Linear Measures Testing."> <text>The Department shall test linear measures at the following rates:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The fees for testing shall be $15 each test point; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The fee for testing other linear devices shall be $50 an hour.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §11-205, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 13, 1991 (18:9 Md. R. 1011)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02C and D amended effective March 2, 1992 (19:4 Md. R. 474)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective March 2, 1992 (19:4 Md. R. 474)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective February 13, 1995 (22:3 Md. R. 155)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective March 2, 1992 (19:4 Md. R. 474); February 13, 1995 (22:3 Md. R. 155)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .14 amended effective February 13, 1995 (22:3 Md. R. 155)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective December 17, 2007 (34:25 Md. R. 2214)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .15 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="08" heading="Registration of Commercial Weighing and Measuring Devices"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Person” includes the State, any county, municipal corporation or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Weight and measure” means any instrument or device used in determining:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The weight, measurement, or count of any commodity sold or offered or exposed for sale, on the basis of weight, measure, or count;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Any charge or payment for services rendered on the basis of weight, measurement, or count;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Weight, measurement, or count when a charge is made for the determination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Registration Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may not use or possess for current use a weight and measure unless it is registered with the Secretary as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The registration requirement of this chapter does not apply to a scale known as a “counting scale” which is designed by the manufacturer and used by the possessor or owner solely for determining the number or count of objects of the same weight placed in or on the counting scale's load-receiving element.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>It is the responsibility of the user or possessor of a weight and measure to properly register the weight and measure with the Secretary as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Application and Renewal Procedure."> <text>An applicant for registration or renewal of a registration of a weight and measure shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Submit to the Secretary an application on a form that the Secretary provides; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Pay to the Secretary the applicable nonrefundable registration fee provided in Regulation .05 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Registration Terms and Conditions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless renewed as provided by Regulation .03 of this chapter, a registration for a weight and measure expires on May 31 of each year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A registration issued by the Secretary applies only to the original weight and measure as described in the registration unless the possessor notifies the Secretary that the originally described weight and measure has been replaced by a weight and measure of the same class.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the owner or possessor sells a registered weight and measure to another person, the new owner or possessor shall register the weight and measure as required by Regulation .03 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the owner or possessor moves a weight and measure to a new business location, the owner or possessor shall notify the Secretary within 30 days of moving the weight and measure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The owner or possessor of a weight and measure shall display the registration conspicuously at each place of business where the weight and measure is located.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Fees for Classes of Weights and Measures."> <text>The Department's fees for registering each class of weight and measure used for commercial purposes under this subtitle are as follows:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Scale with a capacity of up to 100 pounds—$25 for each scale, plus $75 for each business location;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Scale with a capacity of more than 100 pounds, up to 2,000 pounds—$100;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Scale with a capacity of more than 2,000 pounds—$125;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Belt conveyor scale—$350;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Railroad track scale—$350;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Vehicle scale—$350;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Grain moisture meter—$150;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Retail motor fuel dispenser meter of under 20 gallons per minute—$20 each for each meter, plus $75 per business location;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Retail motor fuel dispenser meter of 20 gallons per minute or more—$65;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Retail DEF dispensers—$20 per meter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Bulk petroleum fuel vehicle mounted meter of 20 gallons per minute or more—$100;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="L."> <text>Bulk petroleum fuel meter stationary—$100;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="M."> <text>Liquefied petroleum meter of 3/4 inch diameter or less—$100;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="N."> <text>Liquefied petroleum gas meter 3/4 inch—2 inch diameter—$125;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="O."> <text>Liquefied petroleum gas meters greater than 2 inch diameter—$150;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="P."> <text>Point of sale system, as defined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Handbook 44, connected to a weighing or measuring device (per business location)—$125;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="Q."> <text>Electrical Vehicle Service Equipment—$150 per port;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="R."> <text>Mass Flow Meters—$330 per meter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="S."> <text>Device registration fee 30 days or more delinquent—$125 per account.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Registration Denial, Suspension, or Revocation."> <text>Subject to the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act, the Secretary may deny, suspend, or revoke the registration for a weight and measure if:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The owner or possessor fails to comply with the requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The weight and measure does not meet the requirements of Agriculture Article, §§11-101—11-414, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An owner or possessor uses the weight and measure in violation of Agriculture Article, §§11-101—11-414, Annotated Code of Maryland, or in violation of any regulation adopted by the Secretary under the Maryland Weights and Measures Law.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Criminal Penalty; Stop Use Order."> <text>A person who fails to comply with this chapter or who uses or possesses an unregistered weight and measure is subject to a criminal penalty, including a stop use order by the Secretary.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§11-204.1—11-204.7, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 12, 1992 (19:20 Md. R. 1818)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728); September 29, 2025 (52:19 Md. R. 957)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="09" heading="Approval and Type Evaluation Requirements"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Certificate of Conformance” means a document which the National Conference on Weights and Measures issues as evidence that a weighing and measuring device was evaluated under the National Type Evaluation Program and found to comply with the applicable technical requirements of National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Counting scale” means a scale designed and used solely to indicate the number or count of objects placed in or on the scale's load receiving element.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Maryland Certificate of Approval” means a document which the Maryland Department of Agriculture issues as evidence that a weighing and measuring device was evaluated under the State Type Evaluation Program and found to comply with the applicable technical requirements of National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“National Type Evaluation Program” means the uniform testing program managed by the National Conference on Weights and Measures for evaluating, at participating laboratories, whether a weighing and measuring device complies with the applicable technical standards of National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Participating laboratory” means a measurement laboratory that has been certified by the National Conference on Weights and Measures to conduct type evaluations under the National Type Evaluation Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Type” means a model or models of a particular measurement system, instrument, element, or a field standard that positively identifies the design. A specific type may vary in its measurement ranges, size, performance, and operating characteristics as specified in the Certificate of Conformance or Maryland Certificate of Approval.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Approval and Certificate Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as otherwise provided in §§C and D of this regulation, a person may not offer for sale, sell, or use a commercial weighing and measuring device in this State unless it has been approved by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Secretary shall approve a weighing and measuring device for sale or use in this State if it:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has a valid Certificate of Conformance or a Maryland Certificate of Approval; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is not otherwise prohibited for sale or use as provided under Regulation .04 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The limitation that a weighing or measuring device be approved by the Secretary before a person may offer it for sale, sell, or use it in this State does not apply to the following devices:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A commercial weighing and measuring device manufactured before October 1, 1992;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A counting scale;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A weighing or measuring device that the Secretary has approved previously and whose approval has not been revoked; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A noncommercial weighing or measuring device such as an estimator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If a weighing or measuring device does not have either of the requisite certificates but is accurate, the Secretary may permit the device's use for a specified period of time, provided, however, the device is:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submitted for evaluation under the State or National Type Evaluation Program; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Replaced with an approved device within the specified period of time.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Type Evaluation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary shall establish a State Type Evaluation Program and provide type evaluation services for weights and measures to be offered for sale, sold, or used in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the Department's laboratory is certified as a participating laboratory, the Secretary may provide type evaluation services for weights and measures under the National Type Evaluation Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>As provided under Regulation .05, the Secretary shall charge fees for all services it performs in the type evaluation process and for the use of equipment and laboratory facilities involved in the completion of a device evaluation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>When submitting a weighing and measuring device for evaluation, a person shall indicate whether it is to be tested under the State or National Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>When evaluating a weighing and measuring device under either the State or National Type Evaluation Program, the Secretary shall follow the National Type Evaluation Program's uniform type evaluation criteria and test procedures.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If the Secretary finds that the device complies with the applicable technical requirements of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, the Secretary shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notify the National Conference on Weights and Measures if the device is being evaluated under the National Program; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Issue a Maryland Certificate of Approval for the device if it is being evaluated under the State Program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>If a weighing and measuring device does not comply with the applicable technical requirements of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, the Secretary shall notify the applicant of this finding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>A Maryland Certificate of Approval is appropriate under the following circumstances:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When a Certificate of Conformance cannot be issued for a device because there are no current uniform type evaluation criteria and test procedures; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When the device's use is limited to Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Denying or Revoking Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary may deny or revoke approval to sell or use a weighing and measuring device if the Secretary determines that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The owner or manufacturer has provided false or misleading information about the device;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The device does not comply with the applicable technical requirements of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44 or any other requirement of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The owner or manufacturer has not paid the Secretary the cost of conducting a type evaluation service for that device.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before denying or revoking approval to sell or use a weighing and measuring device, the Secretary shall afford the owner or manufacturer of the device notice and an opportunity to be heard.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After receiving a request to conduct a type evaluation for a weighing and measuring device, the Secretary shall inform the applicant of the estimated cost to conduct this service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Upon request by the Secretary, the applicant shall prepay the estimated cost to conduct the type evaluation service. If after completing this service the Secretary finds that the actual cost is greater than the estimated cost, the applicant shall pay the Secretary the difference. On the other hand, if the actual cost is less than the estimated cost, the Secretary shall refund the difference to the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For performing type evaluation under either the State or National Program, the Secretary shall charge the following fees:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Technical services and evaluations —$150 per hour;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Environmental chamber services —$450 per device;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Certificate of Conformance drafting fee — $500;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Trailer-mounted provers, 200 gallon capacity —$75 per day plus 45 cents per mile;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Trailer-mounted provers, 1000-gallon capacity —$200 per day plus 65 cents per mile;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Large scale test unit —$400 per day plus $3 per mile;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Van or sedan —67 cents per mile;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>1-ton truck —$1 per mile; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Travel costs —$100 per hour full reimbursement from Annapolis, Maryland, and daily Maryland per diem for meals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§11-204.1 and 11-207.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 1, 1993 (20:2 Md. R. 113)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective October 14, 2002 (29:20 Md. R. 1590)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02A amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03F amended effective October 14, 2002 (29:20 Md. R. 1590)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05C amended effective December 30, 1996 (23:26 Md. R. 1861); November 5, 2007 (34:22 Md. R. 1979)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05C amended as an emergency provision effective January 31, 2002 (29:4 Md. R. 415); amended permanently effective April 29, 2002 (29:8 Md. R. 701)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05C amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="10" heading="Civil Penalty Standards for Weights and Measures"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes standards for imposing civil penalties against a person who violates any provision of Agriculture Article, Title 11, Annotated Code of Maryland, or any regulation adopted under that title.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Assessment of Civil Penalty."> <text>Instead of pursuing criminal charges, the Secretary may impose a civil penalty as provided under Regulation .03 of this chapter on a person who:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Uses an uninspected or unapproved weight and measure for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Buying or selling any commodity or object,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Hire or award,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Computing any charge or payment for services rendered on the basis of weight or measurement, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Determining any weight and measure for a charge;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Disposes of any rejected or condemned weight or measure in a manner contrary to law or rule or regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Uses in retail trade, except in the preparation of medical prescriptions or packages put up in advance of sale, a weight or measure which is not so positioned that its indications may be accurately read and the weighing or measuring operations observed from some position which reasonably may be assumed by a customer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Violates any provision of Agriculture Article, Title 11, Annotated Code of Maryland, or any regulation adopted under that title;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Sells, or offers or exposes for sale, less than the quantity represented of any commodity, object, or service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Takes more than the quantity represented of any commodity, object, or service when, as buyer, the person furnishes the weight or measure by means of which the amount of the commodity, object, or service is determined;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Misrepresents a weight, measurement, or count affecting any purchase, sale, award, or amounts paid or charged for a service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Impersonates in any way the Secretary, or uses the Secretary's seal or a counterfeit of it in any manner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Removes from any weight or measure, contrary to law or regulation, any tag, seal, or mark placed by the Secretary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Uses, sells, offers, or exposes for sale or hire, or possesses for the purpose of using, selling, or hiring an incorrect weight or measure or any device or instrument used to or calculated to falsify any weight or measure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Manipulates or in any manner renders a weight or measure to a state calculated to deceive or defraud anyone; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="L."> <text>Advertises any agricultural product as local or locally grown in violation of COMAR 15.01.09.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Classification of Violations for the Purpose of Determining Penalties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this regulation, “violation” means a criminal conviction or an administrative finding that a person has committed one of the acts referenced under Regulation .02 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For a violation of an act referenced under Regulation .02 of this chapter, a civil penalty may be imposed by the Secretary considering the nature and gravity of each violation consistent with the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For the first violation, a penalty of not more than $500;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the second violation, a penalty of not more than $1,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For the third and any subsequent violation, a penalty of not more than $2,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Payment of Penalty."> <text>Unless a stay has been granted, a person against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this chapter shall pay the amount of the penalty promptly to the Department within the time specified in the Department's notice to that person, or as otherwise agreed upon by the Department and the person.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Appeal."> <text>A person may appeal the Secretary's decision to impose a civil penalty as provided in Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland. The person shall be notified of this right to appeal.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §11-208.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: December 5, 1994 (21:24 Md. R. 1990)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02L adopted effective January 21, 2013 (40:1 Md. R. 21)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="11" heading="Qualifications for Registration of a Service Technician and Service Agency"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope and Purpose."> <text>This chapter describes the Department's voluntary registration of service technicians and service agencies. This certification program is intended to allow owners of commercially used weighing and measuring devices to immediately place into service devices that have been installed, serviced, or repaired by a service technician or service agency registered with the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Commercial Weighing and Measuring Device.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Commercial weighing and measuring device” means any weighing or measuring device commercially used:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>In establishing size, quantity, extent, area, or measurement of products for distribution or consumption which are purchased, offered, or submitted for sale, hire, or award; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>In computing any basic charge or payment for services rendered.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Commercial weighing and measuring device” includes any accessory attachment to or used in connection with a commercial weighing or measuring device if the accessory is designed or installed so its operation may affect the accuracy of the device.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Device” means a weighing and measuring device.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“NIST” means the National Institute of Standards and Technology.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“NTEP” means the National Type Evaluation Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, association, firm, or other business entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Registered service agency” means a person that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is registered with the Department as a service agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Installs, services, or repairs a commercial weighing or measuring device; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Employs registered service technicians who have the authority to place devices into service.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Registered service technician” means an individual who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is certified by the Department as a service technician;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Installs, services, or repairs a commercial weighing or measuring device; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has the authority to place devices into service.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Secretary" means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Application."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person seeking certification shall obtain the appropriate form from, and make application to, the Department. An applicant shall pay a one-time application fee of $25 and provide the following information in an application:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name of the applicant or service agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Principal business address of the applicant or service agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Whether the applicant has a previous or current registration with any state government relating to service technicians or service agencies;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Whether the applicant has ever had a registration suspended or revoked;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any other information the Department considers necessary to determine qualification for receipt of a certificate of registration; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A copy of the current certification of all standards used in the repair, service, or testing of weighing and measuring devices in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Secretary has the authority to accept or reject any application for certificate of registration.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Qualifications for Registration."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Registered Service Technician. An applicant seeking to become a certified service technician shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §B of this regulation, pass a written examination for each type of weighing and measuring device the applicant intends to install, service, repair, or pass and provide certification of National Council on Weights and Measures Registered Service Agency Exams.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Possess a working knowledge of weighing and measuring devices for which the applicant intends to be registered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Possess or have access to standards of weights and measures and testing equipment that are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Appropriate in design and adequate in amount to provide the services for which the applicant is requesting registration; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Certified by a NIST-approved State metrology laboratory; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Pay the certificate of registration fee, as outlined in Regulation .07 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Instead of requiring the examination specified under §A of this regulation, the Department may accept scores obtained on other State or industry association-approved examinations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Registered Service Agency. An applicant seeking to become a registered service agency shall meet the qualifications set forth in §A(3) and (4) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Notice of Pass or Fail."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall notify the applicant of the examination results for each type of weighing and measuring device for which the applicant tested.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An applicant who fails and wants to retake an examination shall pay a $25 reexamination fee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Additional Examinations following Certification."> <text>A service technician possessing a current certificate of registration from the Department may take additional examinations for other types of weighing and measuring devices. The certified service technician shall submit to the Department, before the testing date, a $25 examination fee in the form of a check or money order.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Certificate of Registration Fee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall issue a certificate of registration to a qualified person under Regulation .04 of this chapter, upon receipt of the appropriate fee specified in §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A qualified person seeking a certificate of registration shall pay to the Department one of the following fees for the appropriate type of registration for which certification is sought:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>$75 for a service technician certificate; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>$250 for a service agency certificate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A service agency is exempt from paying a registration fee if it is:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A business employing service technicians to install, place into service, adjust, repair, or service weights or measures that are owned or operated by the business, and used by that business only; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An agency within State or county government engaged in the installation, placing into service, adjusting, repairing, or servicing of weights or measures owned or operated by a State or county government.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A service technician who is employed by a service agency that meets the exemption requirements of §C(1) or (2) of this regulation is exempt from paying the registration renewal fee normally required of a service technician.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Registration Renewal."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A registration expires on September 30 of the second year after the date issued.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall renew without penalty a registration which has lapsed for less than 3 months.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall renew a registration which has lapsed for 3 months or more only after the applicant meets the qualifications outlined in Regulation .04 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A service agency or service technician shall notify the Department in writing of any change in the registrant's name or address within 60 days after the change.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Report Forms."> <text>Within 5 days after a device is serviced, restored to service, or placed into service, a registered service technician or registered service agency shall notify and provide to the Department the following information:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Name and address of service agency, service technician, or both;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Location of device; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Make and model of device.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Examination of Testing Equipment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>At least once every two calendar years, each registered service agency and registered service technician shall submit for examination and certification all standards, except for those noted in §B of this regulation, that are used or intended to be used for servicing and testing commercial weighing and measuring devices for which competence is registered to one of the following locations:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>NIST; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A NIST-approved out-of-State weights and measures laboratory.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Once every calendar year, each registered service agency and registered service technician shall submit for examination and certification the following standards that are used or intended to be used for servicing and testing commercial weighing or measuring devices for which competence is registered to one of the locations referenced in §A of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Cast iron hand weights;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Self-propelled weight carts; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Five-gallon test measures.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a registered service agency or registered service technician submits standards to NIST or a NIST-approved out-of State weights and measures laboratory, as described in §§A and B of this regulation, the service agency or service technician within 30 days shall provide the Department a copy of the current certification of all standards used in the repair, service, or testing of weighing or measuring devices in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A registered service agency or registered service technician may not use, in servicing commercial weighing or measuring devices, any standards that have not been certified by a NIST-approved State metrology laboratory. A registered service agency or service technician immediately shall submit to a NIST-approved laboratory for recertification a damaged standard.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A registered service agency or registered service technician that places into service a scale with a capacity in excess of 40,000 pounds shall have test weights that are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Certified by one of the three locations outlined in §A of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Equal to a minimum of 12.5 percent of the scale's nominal capacity, or 10,000 pounds, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Record-Keeping Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Report Forms. Each service technician or service agency seeking registration with the Department shall submit, with the application for certificate of registration, a report form for approval by the Department. There is no specific format for the requested information, which shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name and address of service agency, service technician, or both;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Name and address of device owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Location of device;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Date of service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Make, model, and serial number of device;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>NTEP certificate of conformance number for any device manufactured after October 1992;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Adjustments made and results of testing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Signature of service technician.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A registered person shall make available for inspection, at the Department's request, the information required in §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A registered service technician or registered service agency shall keep report forms for at least 24 months.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Denial, Revocation, or Suspension of Application or Registration."> <text>For good cause or for a violation of this chapter, the Secretary may deny an application for renewal of registration, or revoke or suspend the current registration, of any service technician or service agency:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon reasonable notice to an applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After an opportunity for a hearing.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Publishing of Registrant Lists."> <text>The Secretary upon request shall publish or provide lists of registered service technicians and registered service agencies.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §11-203(a)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.13 adopted as an emergency provision effective October 1, 2003 (30:21 Md. R. 1527); adopted permanently effective January 5, 2004 (30:26 Md. R. 1917)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07B amended effective February 17, 2025 (52:3 Md. R. 161)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="12" heading="Biodiesel Motor Blend Fuel Registration for a Weighing and Measuring Device"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope and Purpose."> <text>This chapter describes the Department’s exemption, allowed only to certain organizations that distribute biodiesel blend fuel to its members only, and not to the general public, that permits the limited use of a commercial measuring device that does not meet the technical requirements of Handbook 44 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Biodiesel” means a renewable, biodegradable fuel that is manufactured from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled grease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Biodiesel blend” means a motor fuel comprised of a minimum of 20 percent biodiesel fuel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Device” means any weighing or measuring instrument or meter used for measuring the amount of fuel distributed by an organization.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Application and Qualifications for Certification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An organization requesting registration of a device shall make application to the Department on a Departmental form, pay any fee required by this chapter, and include the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name of the applicant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Business address of the applicant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Whether the applicant has ever had a registration or license suspended or revoked by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other information the Department considers necessary to determine the qualifications of the applicant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In addition to the above, the organization shall certify to the Department that it meets all of the following conditions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That the organization is organized under Corporations and Associations Article, Title 5, Subtitle 5A, Annotated Code of Maryland, or organized as another entity approved by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That the biodiesel blend is not commercially available in the market area where the device is located;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>That the device is accurate and free of error;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>That the device is constructed so that it is permanent in its adjustments and repeats its indications correctly;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>That the device does not facilitate the perpetration of fraud;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>That the device will only be used to dispense biodiesel blend fuel for use by active fully paid members of the organization, and that all fees and fuel prices are the same for all members;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>That the organization does not advertise, publicize, or otherwise disseminate information to the public indicating the unit pricing of the biodiesel blend fuel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>That the organization does not have more than 60 members who purchase biodiesel blend fuel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>That no more than 30,000 gallons of biodiesel blend fuel shall be dispensed annually;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>That the device is clearly marked to indicate that it is not legal for trade and is restricted to members of the organization;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>That the organization is in compliance with all other applicable State and federal requirements relating to the biodiesel blend fueling facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>That the organization grants permission to the Department to inspect the device, any records required by this chapter, and the biodiesel blend fuel facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>That the organization purchases biodiesel blend fuel only from persons who are legally licensed to distribute fuel in Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>That the organization acknowledges and agrees that its registration may be denied, revoked, or suspended by the Department as provided by Regulation .07 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Certification of Registration Fee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall issue a certification of registration for a device to any qualifying organization under this chapter upon payment of the fee specified in §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The fees for registration are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>$50 for each business location; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>$12.50 per meter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Annual Registration Renewals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A registration expires on May 31st each year after the date issued.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An organization may renew a registration as described by Regulation .03 of this chapter and upon payment of a fee as specified in Regulation .04B of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Record-Keeping Requirements."> <text>Any organization whose device is certified for registration under this chapter shall keep for 3 years the following records and make them available to the Department upon request:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Copies of any bills of lading and delivery tickets for any biodiesel blend fuel acquired by the organization;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The name of each member of the organization who acquired biodiesel blend fuel during each calendar year; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The total amount of biodiesel blend fuel dispensed each calendar year by the organization.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Denial, Revocation, and Suspension of Application of Registration."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may deny an application for renewal, or revoke or suspend the current registration of any device:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For operating without a current registration for the device;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For any violation of this chapter, including providing false information to the Department or any violation of any certification by the organization to the Department under Regulation .03 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the Department determines that the biodiesel blend fuel is commercially available in the market area where the device is located.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before the Department takes any action under this regulation, the organization shall be given reasonable notice and the opportunity to be heard.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §11-203(b) and (c), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 23, 2016 (43:10 Md. R. 589)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="04" heading="Maryland Egg Law"> <chapter num="01" heading="General Regulations"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The regulations contained in this chapter:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Prescribe the standards of quality for individual shell eggs sold in this State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Establish allowable tolerances for grades of shell eggs sold in this State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Prescribe the weights permitted by the Maryland Egg Law for the various size classifications of eggs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Establish special grades of eggs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Indicate what information a person selling shell eggs to a consumer shall provide and the manner in which this information is to be provided.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The regulations contained in this chapter also implement a portion of a program jointly administered by this Department and the Maryland Department of Health (the remaining portions of this program are explained in COMAR 15.11.11, 10.15.03, and 10.15.04) that is intended to reduce the incidence of Salmonella serotype enteritidis in shell eggs distributed or sold in this State. Among other things, these regulations:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Prohibit a person from distributing, offering for sale, or selling shell eggs in the State unless:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>That person is registered with the Secretary and provides certain written documentation that will assist the Secretary, if eggs are found to be adulterated or unfit for human consumption, to discover the particular flock from which those eggs are derived,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The eggs have been produced by flocks that meet the standards established under COMAR 15.11.11.05A, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The carton or case, if the eggs have been packed in one of these containers for delivery to consumers, displays certain information; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Describe what is required of a person who packs shell eggs that are to be distributed, offered for sale, or sold in the State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Carton” means a container holding up to 36 eggs, including overwrapped cartons and sleeves, that is used to pack eggs for distribution or sale to a consumer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Case” means a container that is not a carton and that is used to pack eggs for distribution or sale to a consumer. A case may contain either loose eggs or cartons of eggs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Consumer” means a person who purchases or otherwise acquires shell eggs for household consumption.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Distributor” means a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Sells, offers, or exposes for sale shell eggs to a wholesaler, retailer, or food service facility; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Distributes eggs to a retailer or food service facility owned by that person.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Food service facility” means a person who operates a facility where eggs are used in the preparation of food, and who does not distribute eggs to a food service facility owned by that person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Loose eggs” means eggs not contained in a carton.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Lot designation” means a method of specifying the conditions under which eggs are packed or packaged which enables the packer and the Secretary to trace the eggs to the flock that produced the eggs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Packer” means a person, including a repacker, who places shell eggs in the original case, carton, or container that is used to hold eggs for distribution or sale to consumers and other persons in the distribution chain, such as retailers and food service facilities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Registration number” means the number that the Department assigns a packer or distributor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Repacker” means a packer who repacks previously graded shell eggs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Retailer” means a person who sells shell eggs to a consumer and who does not distribute eggs to a retail outlet owned by that person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Shell eggs” means raw eggs produced by chickens for human consumption.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Sales of Eggs to Certain Business Entities."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Seller to Provide Certain Information. A person may not sell or deliver shell eggs to a retailer, food service facility, or distributor unless that person:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is registered with the Secretary as provided under Regulation .09 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provides the retailer, food service facility, or distributor, before or at the time the eggs are delivered, the following information in English:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name and address of the seller and buyer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The date of delivery;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The grade and size of eggs delivered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The quantity of eggs sold (list the number of eggs sold by grade and size);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The registration number, if any, of the purchaser;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The inspection fee, if applicable, as provided under §D of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Means of Providing Required Information. The seller shall provide the information required under §A(2)(a)—(f) of this regulation, on an invoice or equivalent record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Record-Keeping Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The seller and the person to whom the eggs were sold or delivered, whether a retailer, food service facility, or distributor, shall keep at their respective places of business a copy of all of the information required to be provided under §A(2) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Period to Retain Information.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A retailer or food service facility shall retain this information for a period of 90 days following delivery of the eggs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A packer or distributor shall retain this information either for a period of:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>1 year following delivery of eggs if the packer or distributor does not have an alternative method of keeping accurate records showing the number of eggs sold or delivered to a person; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>90 days if the packer or distributor has an alternative method of accurately keeping these records.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The Department shall be allowed to inspect the information in this section.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Applicability of Inspection Fee Statement on Invoice. The seller is not required to include the inspection fee statement on the invoice if the seller:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Can accurately track the number of eggs sold or delivered to a person through an alternative method; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has obtained the Department's express permission to employ this alternative method.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Sales of Eggs to Consumers."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This regulation does not apply to a person selling shell eggs for pasteurization.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may not distribute, offer for sale, or sell shell eggs to a consumer unless:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That person is registered with the Secretary as provided under Regulation .09 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That person has an invoice or equivalent record containing all of the information required under Regulation .03A; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The eggs are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Supplied by a registered packer,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Supplied by a registered distributor, if applicable,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Produced by flocks that meet the standards of COMAR 15.11.11.05A, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Distributed, offered for sale, or sold as provided under §C or D of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Sale of Eggs in Cartons or Cases. A person may distribute, offer for sale, or sell eggs that have been packed in a carton or case for delivery to consumers only if the carton or case displays the information required under, and in the manner provided by, Regulation .08.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Sale of Loose Eggs.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person may distribute, offer for sale, or sell loose eggs only if that person places a placard on or near them that plainly and conspicuously displays their grade, size, packer, and lot designation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The information required under §D(1)(a) of this regulation to be placed on the placard shall be in legible printing in block letters not less than 3/8 inch in height. The grade or size designations may not be abbreviated. The minimum size of this placard shall be 4-1/2 by 6 inches. The position of the signs in the crate, basket, or other container in which eggs are displayed shall be such that the grade and size of the eggs is plainly visible to customers at all times.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Advertising of any other commodity may not be permitted on any egg container in which the advertising in any way:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Might be representative of the grade or size of eggs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Misleads the consumer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Interferes with the legibility of the grade and size of the eggs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A descriptive term or labeling may not be used when eggs are offered for sale, exposed for sale, sold, or advertised for sale if the term or labeling is false or misleading, or is in violation of any provision of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A food service facility or retailer shall store, display, and transport shell eggs in the refrigerated area of a unit whose temperature is 45° or less.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Grade and Size Classifications."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The standards of quality for individual shell eggs sold in Maryland shall be in accordance with the official standards of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 7 CFR §56.200.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The tolerances allowable for grades of shell eggs sold in Maryland shall be in accordance with the official standards of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for Consumer Grades AA, A, and B allowed at destination, 7 CFR §§56.216 and 56.217.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The size (weight) classification for shell eggs sold in Maryland shall be in accordance with the official U.S. Department of Agriculture Weight Classes for eggs as follows:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>All advertising of eggs shall plainly and conspicuously indicate their proper grade and size classification and comply with the provision of Regulation .04F.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Stop Sale."> <text>Written “stop sale” orders may be issued when it is found that eggs are being sold, offered, or exposed for sale in violation of any of the provisions of law, or of any regulation promulgated pursuant to it. When a “stop sale” order has been issued, it shall be unlawful for anyone to remove either the eggs which are the subject of the order or the order, including copies of it, until ordered released by an authorized agent of the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Special Grades."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Maryland Fancy. The following special grade of eggs of a standard superior to Grade A eggs for use on a voluntary basis for eggs produced in Maryland is established under the authority granted to the Secretary under Agriculture Article, §4-306, Annotated Code of Maryland:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>This grade of eggs shall be known as Maryland Fancy grade and the eggs shall be produced and packed in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The standard of quality for individual eggs shall be the same as the standard of quality of U.S. AA eggs. Final determination as to meeting the standard of quality for shell eggs shall be made by candling or other acceptable methods as determined by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The weight classes for Maryland Fancy grade of eggs shall be expressed as minimum net weight for individual eggs at the rate per dozen as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Jumbo, 30 ounces;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Extra large, 27 ounces;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Large, 24 ounces; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Medium, 21 ounces.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Maryland Fancy eggs shall be at least 90 percent of Fancy quality when packed, candled, and packed by the producer or other authorized egg processors in authorized sealed or otherwise approved cartons bearing name and address, date when candled, and registry number. The eggs allowed by tolerance when packed may not be below Grade A quality.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A person may not pack the Maryland Fancy grade for sale without first applying for registration and being issued a registry number. Applications for registration and registry number identifying seals or approved egg cartons shall be made to the authorized agents of the Department. Registration may be revoked for due cause.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Registrants shall be required to submit information on Department form “Special Grades Inspection” relative to production, handling, distribution, and sales of Maryland Fancy grade eggs and their egg producing and packing facilities inspected and approved by an authorized agent of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The registrant agrees to authorize the Department, through its authorized agents, to conduct an annual inspection of its premises and such additional inspections as the Secretary deems necessary to assure compliance with this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The annual registration fee for the marketing of Maryland Fancy grade eggs shall be $20 per year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Tolerances. A tolerance of 15 percent in quality will be allowed at the retail level. The eggs allowed by tolerance may not be below Grade A quality. There shall be no tolerance permitted for the size of eggs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Maryland Fresh. For those who desire to pack and sell eggs as Maryland Fresh, the eggs shall be produced and packed in Maryland and shall be of Grade A quality or better. The words “Maryland Fresh” can be used only in addition to the word Grade A. Those desiring to use the term “Maryland Fresh” shall first apply to the Department for permission and, upon furnishing the evidence relating to the origin of the eggs as outlined by the Secretary in the form “Special Grades Inspection” attached to these regulations, and upon approval of the egg producer and packing facilities following an inspection by an authorized agent of the Department, shall be issued a registry number. No one may sell, advertise, or represent any eggs as Maryland Fresh until a registry number is granted. Registry numbers shall be renewed each year and may be revoked for due cause.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Any person or association making application to pack or sell eggs as Maryland Fresh shall reveal to the Department, on forms supplied by the Department, the sources from which their eggs are obtained, their volume of Maryland produced eggs, and the volume of Maryland Fresh eggs sold.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>An applicant shall agree to authorize the Department, through its authorized agents, to conduct an annual inspection of its premises and to conduct additional inspections as the Secretary considers necessary to assure compliance with this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Prerequisites for Packing Shell Eggs."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This regulation does not apply to a person who packs shell eggs that are sold for pasteurization.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A packer, including a repacker, shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Register with the Department as provided under Regulation .09 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>On cartons of eggs and cases of loose eggs, legibly print, as provided under §C of this regulation, using a color of permanent ink that contrasts with the container's background, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A notice requiring that eggs be refrigerated,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The name and address of the distributor, packer, or repacker,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The registration number of the packer and, if the eggs have been repacked, the registration number of the repacker,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The lot designations of the eggs,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The identity of the product as eggs,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The classification (size or weight) of the eggs,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>The quantity of eggs, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>The grade of eggs;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>On cases containing eggs packed in cartons (if the required information is printed on the cartons), using a color of permanent ink that contrasts with the container's background, legibly print on either end of the case where the handles are located:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A notice requiring that eggs be refrigerated,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The identity of the product as eggs, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The eggs' grade term and size (weight) classification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Manner of Printing Required Information.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Eggs Packed in a Carton. If the eggs are packed in a carton, the packer shall print the information required under §B(2) of this regulation to be placed on a container as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimum Type Size of Printed Information. Unless otherwise provided under 21 CFR 101, the minimum type size shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>For the net quantity statement, as provided under Table 1;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>For grade term and size (weight) classification of eggs, at least 3/8 inch in height; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>For all remaining information, at least 1/16 inch in height.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Where Information is to be Displayed.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The identity of the product as eggs, the grade term and size (weight) classification of the eggs, and the quantity of eggs in weight or numerical count shall be placed on the carton's principal display panel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The lot designations of the eggs, the packer's or distributor's name and address, and the packer's registration number may be placed on either the carton's information panel or the principal display panel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>A notice requiring that the eggs be refrigerated shall be placed on the carton's principal display panel unless the carton is a full view carton, in which case this notice may be displayed on the carton's information panel.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Grade and Size. The exact grade and size shall be plainly printed in block letters. Abbreviations of any grade term or size (weight) classification is not permitted.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Loose Eggs Packed in a Case. If loose eggs are packed in a case, the packer shall print the information required under §B(2) of this regulation to be placed on a container as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimum Type Size of Printed Information. Except for that information placed within official USDA identification stamps, all information shall be at least 3/8 inch in height.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Where Information is to be Displayed. The required information shall be placed on either end of the case where the handles are located.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Grade and Size. The exact grade and size shall be plainly printed in block letters.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Cases Containing Eggs Packed in Cartons. On cases containing eggs packed in cartons, the packer shall print the information required under §B(3) of this regulation to be placed on a case, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimum Type Size of Printed Information. Except for that information placed within official USDA identification stamps, all information shall be at least 3/8 inch in height.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Grade and Size. The exact grade and size shall be plainly printed in block letters.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Specifications.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Registration."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Packers, Including Repackers.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For each business location where a person is operating as a packer, including a repacker, the person shall submit annually a completed application for registration on a form provided by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Except as otherwise provided under §A(5) of this regulation, the Department shall issue a packer-applicant a certificate of registration if the person:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Submits a completed application without any fraudulent or deceptive statements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Excluding a person operating only as a repacker, provides documentation that is satisfactory to the Department showing that the birds used to produce shell eggs meet the standards provided by COMAR 15.11.11.05A;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Excluding a person operating only as a repacker, permits the Secretary to test the person's birds as provided under COMAR 15.11.11.05A during regular business hours if the Secretary has reason to believe the birds have been exposed to Salmonella enteritidis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Agrees to comply with any lawful direction the Secretary orders;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Except as provided under §A(3) of this regulation, pays the $30 registration fee and any applicable inspection fee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>For the repacker only, provides documentation that is satisfactory to the Department showing that the eggs being packed for distribution or sale in Maryland originate only from packers who are currently registered with the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A packer who keeps 3,000 or fewer chickens and who sells, offers, or exposes for sale shell eggs only from those chickens shall register with the Secretary, but is exempt from paying the registration and inspection fees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A certificate of registration is effective for 1 year and, if during that year any of the following changes in status occur, the registrant shall notify the Department of the change within 15 calendar days of its occurrence:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Salmonella serotype enteritidis status of the flocks being used to produce shell eggs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The addition of birds or flocks to those identified in the original application for registration; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The corporate status, if the registrant is a corporation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The registrant's business location; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>If a repacker, the addition of any packers from whom eggs are being obtained (give name and address) who had not been listed as a source of eggs in the original application for registration.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The Department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to issue the certificate of registration of a person who packs shell eggs:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If the person:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Makes fraudulent or deceptive statements in the application for registration,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Fails to comply with any of the regulations of this chapter or any lawful direction the Secretary orders,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Refuses to permit the Secretary to test the person's birds as provided under COMAR 15.11.11.05A during regular business hours if the Secretary has reason to believe that those birds have been exposed to Salmonella enteritidis;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the person's birds have been exposed to Salmonella enteritidis and the person fails to comply with any lawful direction the Secretary orders; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the person is a repacker and that person:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Fails to provide the documentation required under §A(2)(f) of this regulation, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Distributes or sells eggs in violation of any lawful direction of the Secretary, or which originate from packers who are not currently registered with the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The requirements set forth in this regulation also apply to repackers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A repacker is considered to be a packer if the repacker is in the business of placing shell eggs in a case, carton, or container used to hold eggs for distribution or sale, and the new case, carton, or container into which the eggs are repacked becomes for those eggs the original case, carton, or container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>A packer also includes a person who places shell eggs in the original case, carton, or container that is used to hold eggs for distribution or sale to others in the distribution chain such as retailers and food service facilities, and not just consumers, as this limitation only was intended to exclude from this definition certain persons not in the business of packing eggs but who nevertheless place shell eggs into cartons, for example, consumers who are permitted by certain retailers to pack loose eggs into cartons.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Distributors.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For each business location where a person operates as a distributor, the distributor shall submit annually a complete application for registration on a form provided by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Unless the Department has reason to deny registering a person as provided under §B(4) of this regulation, the Department shall register an applicant if the person:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Submits an application without any fraudulent or deceptive statements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Pays the $30 registration fee and any other fees required under this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A certificate of registration is effective for 1 year, beginning on January 1 of each year and, if during that year there is a change in business location, the distributor shall notify the Department of this change within 15 calendar days of its occurrence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to issue a certificate of registration if the distributor:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Does not meet the requirements of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Violates any provisions of Agriculture Article, Title 4, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland, or any of the regulations of this chapter, or any lawful direction the Secretary orders.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Quarterly Reports and Inspection Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Certain Packers Exempt. A packer who keeps 3,000 or fewer chickens and who sells, offers, or exposes for sale shell eggs only from these chickens is not required to submit a quarterly report or pay an inspection fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Submission of Quarterly Report. For each business location from which eggs are sold or delivered to a retailer, food service facility, or consumer in Maryland, a packer or distributor shall submit a quarterly report, on a form provided by the Department, showing the number of eggs it has sold or delivered to those persons.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Payment of Inspection Fee. With each quarterly report, the packer or distributor shall include the inspection fee due for that quarter, calculated at a rate of 8 cents per 30 dozen cases shown on the report.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Quarterly Time Frames. The quarterly time frames on which a packer or distributor is to base its quarterly reports and the deadlines for submitting these reports and paying the appropriate inspection fee are as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>First Quarter: January, February, and March—report and inspection fee due not later than April 30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Second Quarter: April, May, and June—report and inspection fee due not later than July 30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Third Quarter: July, August, and September—report and inspection fee due not later than October 30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Fourth Quarter: October, November, and December—report and inspection fee due not later than January 30.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Imposition of Collection Fee.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the required inspection fee for a particular quarter is not paid within the time frame established under §D of this regulation for that quarter, a collection fee shall be assessed against the packer or distributor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The amount of the collection fee shall be the greater of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>10 percent of the inspection fee due and unpaid; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>$100.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The amount of collection fee due is a debt and may be the basis of a judgment in a civil action against the packer or distributor.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Packers and Distributors to Retain Information.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For a period of 1 year following delivery of eggs, the packer or distributor, at each place of business or at a central location, shall keep on file accurate records showing the number of eggs sold to any person in Maryland. The packer or distributor shall allow the Department to inspect this information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For any flock from which eggs are derived to be sold or distributed in Maryland, a packer, excluding a person operating only as a repacker, shall maintain for a period of 1 year following disposition of that flock the following records:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All records necessary to establish that the flock meets the requirements of COMAR 15.11.11.05A;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the flock was delivered, the date of delivery, and the name and address of the person who sold the birds; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the flock was tested, the date the test occurred, and the results of that test.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Designation of Agent."> <text>For the purpose of enforcing the regulations contained in this chapter, the Secretary may designate an agent of the Maryland Department of Health as the Secretary's representative.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103, 4-301, 4-302, 4-306, 4-308, 4-310, and 4-311.1—4-311.5; Health-General Article, §21-211; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 1, 1973</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03E amended effective November 22, 1982 (9:23 Md. R. 2261)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective August 2, 1989 (16:17 Md. R. 1883); emergency status expired November 23, 1989</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective December 5, 1989 (16:26 Md. R. 2783); emergency status extended at 17:7 Md. R. 843</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective April 30, 1990 (17:8 Md. R. 977)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09B and D amended as an emergency provision effective November 5, 1991 (18:24 Md. R. 2640); emergency status extended at 19:5 Md. R. 574 (March 6, 1992); adopted permanently effective March 30, 1992 (19:6 Md. R. 675)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective June 20, 1994 (21:12 Md. R. 1063)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A, B amended effective September 9, 1996 (23:18 Md. R. 1318)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Use of Trade-Marks for Maryland Fresh and Maryland Fancy Eggs"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Eligibility to Use Insignia."> <text>Persons approved by the Secretary or his authorized representative to pack and sell eggs as Maryland Fresh or Maryland Fancy eggs as provided in the Maryland Egg Law and subject regulations shall be eligible to apply to the Department to use the appropriate insignia.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Applications."> <text>Application to use the insignia shall be made, on an annual basis, on forms provided by the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Submitting of Designs for Cartons."> <text>Applicants shall submit the designs or art work for all cartons on which the insignia is to appear to the Department or its authorized representative before its use.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Minimum Width of Insignia."> <text>The minimum width of the insignia on any egg carton shall be 1-1/2 inches.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Required Colors."> <text>The insignia is to be reproduced on egg cartons in black printing on a gold background, except that other colors may be permitted if, in the opinion of the Secretary or his authorized representative, those colors are compatible with the design of the carton.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Reports."> <text>Authorized users of the insignia will be required, from time to time, to make reports, on forms furnished by the Department, showing the volume of eggs packed and sold in cartons bearing the insignia and other related information. Any information obtained from these reports shall be kept confidential as to individual source but this may not prohibit the compilation and issuance of reports from the information required from a number of sources that does not disclose the identity of any single source.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Suspension or Revocation."> <text>Authorization to use the insignia may be revoked or suspended by the Secretary or his authorized representative upon satisfactory proof that the user has violated any provision of the Agriculture Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, Subtitle “Maryland Egg Law”.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Restriction."> <text>A person, corporation, partnership, or other business entity may not use the term “Maryland Fresh” or “Maryland Fancy” in the business or firm name, corporate title, trademark, trade name, or other nomenclature.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Form of Insignia."> <text>Authorized insignia users may use the old or new insignia until January 1, 1976, unless otherwise suspended or revoked. After January, 1976, only the new insignia as reproduced below shall be used:</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §4-306, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 1, 1973</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 adopted effective December 2, 1977 (4:25 Md. R. 1915)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="05" heading="Pesticide Use Control"> <chapter num="01" heading="Use and Sale of Pesticides, Certification of Pesticide Applicators and Pest Control Consultants, and Licensing of Pesticide Businesses"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Application” means the spreading of pesticides, by contract or otherwise, for any person owning or renting property.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Alert” means a characteristic change in a dog’s behavior in response to the odor of a pest as interpreted by the dog’s handler.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Canine scent pest detection team” or “Team” means a human and a dog that train and work together as a unit to detect a target pest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Certified applicator” means a person who is certified by the Secretary under this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Customer” means a person who has entered into a contract with a licensee for pest control and includes the owner of property on which a licensee has applied a pesticide.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Device” means an instrument or mechanical contrivance intended to trap, locate, destroy, control, repel, or mitigate pests.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Distractor” means a non-target odor source placed within a dog’s search area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“EPA” means United States Environmental Protection Agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Extract” means an odor extracted from a target pest for the dog to detect.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Hide” means a container that allows free movement of air containing between 5 and 20 live target pests or viable eggs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Label” means the written, printed, or graphic matter on, or attached to, the pesticide or device or any of its containers or wrappers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Labeling” means all written, printed, or graphic matter:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Accompanying the pesticide or device at any time; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>To which reference is made on the label or in literature accompanying the pesticide or device, except to current official publications of the:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Environmental Protection Agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>United States Departments of Agriculture, Interior, and Health, Education, and Welfare;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>State experiment stations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>State agricultural colleges; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Other similar federal or State institutions or agencies authorized by law to conduct research in the field of pesticides.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Nonbulk pesticide” means any liquid or nonliquid pesticide distributed, sold, offered for sale, packaged, or repackaged in containers of less than 56 gallons liquid or 100 pounds net dry weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, corporation, partnership, association, firm, or other business entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Pest” means an insect, snail, slug, rodent, nematode, fungus, weed, or any other form of terrestrial or aquatic plant or animal life or virus, bacteria, or other microorganism (except viruses, bacteria, or other microorganisms, on or in living man or any other living animal) which normally is considered to be a pest or which the Secretary declares to be a pest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Pest control” means engaging in, or offering to engage in, recommending, advertising, soliciting the use of, supervising the use of, or using, a pesticide or device for the identification, control, eradication, mitigation, detection, inspection, or prevention of a pest in, on, or around any house, building, water, air, land, plant, structure, or animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Pest control applicator” means a person engaged in the business of pest control, including, except as provided by the Secretary, a person who applies pesticides on any premises where the public is commonly invited for the sale of goods or services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Pest control consultant” means a person who engages in the business of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Offering or supplying technical advice or supervision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Inspecting for or identifying pests; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Recommending the use of a specific pesticide for the purpose of controlling a pest in or on water, air, land, plants, structures, or animals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Pesticide” means any substance or mixture of substances intended for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Use as a spray adjuvant such as a wetting agent or adhesive.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Pesticide business license” means a license issued by the Secretary to any business according to this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Place of business” means any location from which pest control is conducted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Private applicator” means a person who uses a restricted use pesticide for the purpose of producing an agricultural commodity on property owned or rented by the applicator or applicator's employer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Pseudo-scent” means a man-made compound that mimics the target pest odor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Public agency applicator” means a person employed by a unit of federal, State, county or local government or any training institution which is engaged in pest control.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>“Registered employee” means an employee of a firm or public agency engaged in pest control.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>“Restricted use pesticide” means a pesticide so classified by Agriculture Article, Title 5, Annotated Code of Maryland, the federal government, or the Maryland Secretary of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(28)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(29)"> <text>“Supervision” means, unless otherwise provided by federal or State labeling, the act or process whereby the application of a pesticide is made by a competent person acting under the instructions and control of a certified applicator who is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Responsible for actions of that person; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Available when needed, though the certified applicator may not be physically present at the time and place the pesticide is applied.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="General Requirements for Applying or Recommending Pesticides."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This regulation sets forth the general requirements which a person, when applying or recommending a pesticide, shall follow.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Pesticide Use or Recommendation. When using or recommending pesticides, a person shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Use or recommend only those pesticides which are registered with the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Use or recommend pesticides in strict accordance with:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Maryland Pesticide Applicators Law;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Maryland Pesticide Registration and Labeling Law; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Except as otherwise provided by State and federal law, the manufacturer's labeling directions;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Observe all precautions in the handling, use, storage, and disposal of pesticides and their containers so that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Pesticides do not move from the intended site of application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Nontarget areas or organisms, including humans, do not suffer injury; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Unreasonable adverse effects on the environment do not occur or are minimized; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Comply with 40 CFR 165 (Pesticide Management and Disposal) and 40 CFR 170 (Worker Protection Standard), as amended, which are incorporated by reference.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Limitations on Restricted Use Pesticide. A person may not use a restricted use pesticide unless that person is a certified applicator or is a person working under the supervision of a certified applicator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Restrictions on Use of Pesticides in the Cultivation of Medical Cannabis; Exemptions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in this section, a person may not use any pesticide in the cultivation of medical cannabis, defined as any part of the plant Cannabis sativa.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person may use a pesticide in the cultivation of medical cannabis that is labeled for use in a greenhouse environment that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is formulated with inert and active ingredients listed in 40 CFR §152.25(f)(1) and (2);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has been exempted from the food residue tolerance requirements listed in 40 CFR 180;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has met the criteria for organic food production as defined by 7 CFR 205; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Is allowed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency by label language that is broad enough to include use on cannabis as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A person may use a pesticide on hard surfaces of items and areas used to support operations in the cultivation of medical cannabis for the purpose of disinfection or sanitation for the control of microorganisms provided that the pesticide is labeled for use on hard surfaces, including benches, floors, pallets, pots, skids, tools, and equipment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any spray adjuvant that is labeled for use on food crops can be used with a pesticide that is applied to medical cannabis that has the intended use allowed by the spray adjuvant label. Spray adjuvant use is limited to those allowed for use with an insecticide or fungicide.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>If a pesticide is used in the cultivation of medical cannabis, it shall be applied in a manner consistent with State and federal application requirements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Any pesticide used in the cultivation of medical cannabis shall be registered according to Agriculture Article, §5-105, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The Department shall publish a list of pesticides for use in the cultivation of medical cannabis that is updated annually.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The Natalie M. LaPrade Medical Cannabis Commission may remove any pesticide from the list of approved pesticides if there is reasonable documented evidence that the pesticide has the potential to cause harm to patients using medical cannabis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>The Department may issue a stop-sale order to any registrant of a pesticide that the Secretary finds is in violation of Agriculture Article, Title 5, Annotated Code of Maryland, or has been found by federal or State authorities to cause unreasonable adverse effects to humans, animals, or the environment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Restrictions on Use of Insecticides that Contain Chlorpyrifos.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Aerial Applications Prohibited. A person may not conduct an aerial application of any insecticide containing Chlorpyrifos in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Other Applications Generally Prohibited After December 31, 2020.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except as provided in §E(2)(b) and (c) of this regulation, after December 31, 2020, a person may not apply an insecticide containing Chlorpyrifos or seeds that have been treated with Chlorpyrifos in the State for any use.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Fruit Trees and Snap Bean Seeds. Until June 30, 2021, a person may use an insecticide containing Chlorpyrifos or seeds that have been treated with Chlorpyrifos in the State to treat snap bean seeds and the trunks and lower limbs of fruit trees. After June 30, 2021, such applications are prohibited unless authorized by the Secretary under §E(2)(c) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Limited Particular Use Authorization. After December 31, 2020, a person may file a written application with the Department requesting authorization to use an insecticide that contains Chlorpyrifos or seeds that have been treated with Chlorpyrifos for a particular use. If the Secretary has determined that there are no effective alternatives for the particular use noted in the application, the Secretary may authorize such use for a specified period of time, which may not extend beyond December 31, 2021.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Establishment of Committee. The Secretary shall establish a committee, with members appointed by the Secretary, to determine alternatives to using Chlorpyrifos or seeds that have been treated with Chlorpyrifos, which shall dissolve on December 31, 2021.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="General Requirements for Licensees, Permittees, Certificate Holders, or Registered Employees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Licensing Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A private applicator shall obtain a certificate as provided under Regulation .07 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A pest control applicator, pest control consultant, or public agency applicator shall obtain a certificate as provided under Regulation .08 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Each place of business performing pest control shall be licensed as provided under Regulation .10 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A public agency performing pest control shall obtain a permit as provided under Regulation .11 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A person who sells or distributes restricted use pesticides shall obtain a permit as provided under Regulation .13 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Transfer of Certificate, License, or Permit Prohibited. A certificate, license, or permit issued under this chapter may not be transferred to any person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Safety and Precautionary Requirements. In addition to the requirements set forth in Regulation .02 of this chapter, a licensee, permit holder, certified applicator, or registered employee shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Use an effective anti-siphon device or back-flow preventer on all hoses or lines used to fill or rinse pest control equipment, pesticide containers, or areas where pesticides are mixed, loaded, or stored;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Make use of scientific training, practical experience, and commonly recognized pesticide industry guidelines or recommendations which do not conflict with this chapter, when inspecting for, or treating, pests;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Consider recommended alternative pest control measures, such as mechanical, cultural, physical, biological, or chemical control;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Use and provide each employee with personal protective equipment and applicable safety information as indicated on the pesticide label or as required by regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Immediately notify the Department by telephone of any pesticide accident, incident, fire, flood, or spill, and report to the Department the full details of the event, including any remediation taken; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Have available at the time and place of application a copy of the label for the pesticide being applied.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Notifying Department of Certain Business Changes. Each licensee, permit holder, certified applicator, or consultant immediately shall notify the Department in writing if there is any change in business ownership, name, address, or phone number.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Certified Applicator Requirement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Designated Person. A licensee or permit holder, except a dealer, shall designate an individual who is certified in those categories for which each place of business is licensed. This designated person may not serve as the certified individual for more than one place of business.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Loss of Certified Applicator. A licensee or permit holder immediately shall notify the Department when a certified applicator is no longer employed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Vehicle Identification Requirement. The pesticide business name and license number shall appear on each motor vehicle transporting pesticides or devices used in pest control. The license number, which shall be preceded by the abbreviation for the Maryland Department of Agriculture, namely, “MDA”, and the business name, shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In bold print not less than 2 inches high; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Displayed on both sides of the vehicle.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Permitting Department to Sample and Inspect. A licensee or permittee shall permit the Department, upon presenting credentials, and at reasonable times, to sample any pesticide and inspect any:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Device, container, product, apparatus, or equipment used, or intended for use, in pest control operations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Location from which pest control is conducted; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pest control activity by a certified applicator or person under the applicator's supervision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Pest Control Employees — Responsibilities of Employer, the Department, and Employees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Responsibility of Licensee or Permittee.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Registering Employees. A licensee or permittee shall register with the Department each employee who performs pest control either when applying, respectively, for a license or permit, or within 30 days after the employee’s employment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Providing Identifying Information. A licensee or permittee shall provide the Department with the employee's name, social security number, and 1-inch by 1-inch photograph.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Paying Initial and Renewal Registration Fees.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>New Employees. Beginning October 1, 2010, a licensee or permittee shall pay an initial registration fee of $30 for each new registered employee required to be registered under Regulation .04A(1) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Existing Employees of Pest Control Consultant Licensees. Beginning January 1, 2011, a licensee or permittee shall pay an annual renewal fee of $30 for each registered employee required to be registered under Regulation .04A(1) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Existing Employees of Pest Control Business Licensees and Not-for-Hire Licensees. Beginning July 1, 2011, a licensee or permittee shall pay an annual renewal fee of $30 for each registered employee required to be registered under Regulation .04A(1) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Exemption. Permitted Public Agencies are exempted from paying the initial and renewal registration fees for registered employees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Duration.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An employee registration for an employee of a Pesticide Business licensee, a Not-for-Hire licensee, or a permitted public agency becomes effective beginning July 1, or whenever obtained, and expires June 30.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An employee registration for an employee of a Pest Control Consultant Licensee becomes effective beginning January 1, or whenever obtained, and expires December 31.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Paying a Late Fee. If an application for renewal of an employee registration card is received by the Department more than 30 days after the renewal date of the registration card, the licensee is subject to a $30 late fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Notifying Department of Employee's Termination. Within 30 days after termination of the registered employee, a licensee or permittee shall give the Department written notice of the employment termination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Training Employees.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Ensuring Completion of Approved Program. Each licensee or permittee is responsible for ensuring that each employee, other than a certified applicator, successfully completes a training program approved by the Department. Employee training shall be completed within 30 days of employment and before registration with the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Prohibiting Untrained Employee From Certain Work. A licensee or permittee may not allow an employee who has failed to successfully complete an approved training program to perform pest control services unless a certified applicator or registered employee is physically present at the time and place of the pest control service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Verifying Training Completion. Upon request by the Department, each licensee or permittee shall provide written evidence that an employee has completed an approved training program. The licensee or permittee shall maintain throughout the duration of an employee's employment a record showing the date on which the employee completed the approved program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Responsibility of Department.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Approval of Training Program. The Department may approve any training program that includes at least the following subjects:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Pesticide laws and regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Label comprehension;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Safety and emergency procedures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Proper pesticide handling and storage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Pest identification and control recommendations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Pesticide application techniques;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Environmental and health concerns; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Integrated pest management principles.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Issuance of Identification Card. The Department shall issue an identification card to each employee that a licensee or permittee registers with the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Responsibility of Employees.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Use and Return of Identification Card. A registered employee shall carry an identification card and shall show it, on request, to any interested person. Upon termination, the registered employee shall return the identification card to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Need to Complete Training Program. An employee who has not successfully completed a Department-approved training program may not apply pesticides unless a certified applicator or registered employee is physically present at the time and place of application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Specific Requirements for Fumigation Operations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Requirements Pertaining to Employees. To perform fumigation work, an employee of a licensee, permittee, or certificate holder shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be trained in fumigation practices;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Have adequate knowledge of the fumigant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Be provided with safety equipment necessary for the employee's protection.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notification Requirement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Soil Fumigation. Before applying a soil fumigant within 300 feet of any residence, the certified applicator shall notify the occupant of the residence at least 24 hours before the application either by telephone, in person, or by written notice delivered to the residence. The notice shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Name of the certified applicator in charge and the applicator's telephone number where the applicator can be reached at any time;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Name of fumigant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Date and approximate time of fumigation and estimated length of fumigation period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Structural Fumigation. Before conducting any structural fumigation, the certified applicator shall give written notice to the local fire and health departments. The notice shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Pesticide business name, address, telephone number, and license number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Name of the certified applicator in charge and the applicator's telephone number or numbers where the applicator can be reached at all times;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Name of fumigant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Location and type of structure; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Date and approximate time of fumigation and estimated length of fumigation period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Posting of Warning Signs. The certified applicator shall post a warning sign on each side of the structure, container, or commodity to be treated. Each sign shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The skull and crossbones;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The name of the fumigant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A warning statement, such as “keep out”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The name of the company; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The name and telephone number of the pest control applicator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Posting of Guard. With the exception of commodities fumigated in transit or soil fumigation, the certified applicator shall post a guard on the site during the entire fumigation period. A guard shall remain on duty at the site at all times to prevent unauthorized persons from coming into contact with the fumigant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Required Inspection. The certified applicator shall clear a structure or area of all persons before the fumigation. The applicator shall inspect the structure or area before reoccupancy for safe reentry.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Specific Requirements for Storing Pesticides."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Minimum Requirements for Storing Nonbulk Pesticides. At a minimum, a person licensed, certified, permitted, or registered by the Department under this chapter who is storing nonbulk pesticides shall ensure that the pesticides being stored and the pesticide storage areas meet the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The storage area shall be secured or locked to prevent unauthorized access;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pesticides shall be stored in a separate building or, at a minimum, shall be separated by a physical barrier from living and working areas and from food, feed, fertilizer, seed, and safety equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A warning sign approved by the Department shall be placed on the exterior of the storage area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Pesticides shall be stored in a dry, ventilated area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The pesticide storage area shall be kept clean;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A supply of absorbent material sufficient enough to absorb a spill equivalent to the capacity of the largest container in storage shall be kept in the storage area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The storage area shall contain only pesticide containers that are properly labeled and are free of leaks;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The storage area shall have an appropriate fire extinguisher available; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Pesticides shall be stored in an area located at least 50 feet from any water well or stored in secondary containment approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Transport of Pesticides.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>During transport, pesticide containers and application equipment shall be secured to prevent shifting or release of pesticides.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pesticides may not be placed or carried in the same compartment as the driver, food, or feed, unless in a manner that provides adequate protection for the safety and health of passengers from the pesticides.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Pesticide Service Containers.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Pesticide Concentrate. If pesticide concentrate is temporarily stored or transported, its container shall have a securely attached label with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Common name, if available, or chemical name of pesticide;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>U.S. EPA registration number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Signal word—Danger, Warning, or Caution; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Percent concentration.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pesticide End-Use Dilutions or End-Use Concentrates. If a pesticide is stored or transported, excluding application equipment, and if it does not require further dilution, its container shall have a securely attached label with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Common name, if available, or chemical name of pesticide preceded by the words “Diluted” or “End-Use Concentrate”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>U.S. EPA registration number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Signal word—Danger, Warning, or Caution; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Percent of concentration or pounds of active ingredient per volume.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Pesticide Container. A pesticide container may not be used for any purpose other than containing the originally labeled product, unless the product label states otherwise.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Private Applicator Certificate."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each applicant for a private applicator certificate shall obtain from the Department a certificate before the initial purchase or use of a restricted use pesticide.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Each applicant shall apply to the Department, using a Departmental form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Each applicant for a private applicator certificate shall be 16 years old or older, demonstrate proof of practical knowledge of pest control, and meet the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Pay a certificate fee of $7;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pass an examination given by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Duration. A certificate is valid for 3 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Certificate Renewal. A certificate may be renewed every 3 years by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Applying to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Paying a certificate fee of $7; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Demonstrating knowledge of pesticide use by participating, within the 12 months before expiration of the current certificate, in a training course approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Record-Keeping Requirements. A person certified as a private applicator shall maintain records, as indicated in this section, on each general use or restricted use pesticide application. The records shall be held for 2 years, and shall be available, on request, to the Department. The following information shall be recorded:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name and address of certified applicator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Name and address of applicator, if different from §F(1) of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Location of treated area, including county, address of farm or production area, and field designation, if available;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Date of pesticide application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Brand name or common name and EPA registration number of pesticide used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Application rate of pesticide used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Total amount of pesticide product used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Acreage, size of area treated, or number of plants or animals treated; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Crop, stored product, site, or commodity treated.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Pest Control Applicator, Pest Control Consultant, and Public Agency Applicator Certification, and Categories of Pest Control."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Certification. A person shall apply to the Department, using Departmental forms, for certification as a pest control applicator, pest control consultant, or public agency applicator in any of the following categories or subcategories of pest control:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Agricultural. This category consists of the following subcategories:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Plant. This subcategory authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>In the production of agricultural crops including, but not limited to, small grains, soybeans, forage, tobacco, vegetables, small fruits, and tree fruits; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>On grasslands and noncrop agricultural lands.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Animal.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>This subcategory authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control on livestock or poultry, including, but not limited to swine, sheep, horses, goats, chickens, and turkeys, where such animals are housed or otherwise confined.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A veterinary practitioner is not required to be certified under this chapter unless that person is a pest control applicator or pest control consultant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Grain Treatment. This subcategory authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control on, in, or around stored grain to prevent insect and rodent damage, including the use of a fumigant for this purpose.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Forest. This category authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control in forests, forest nurseries, reforestation projects, or forest-seed producing areas.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Ornamental or Turf. This category authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control in the maintenance and production of ornamental trees, shrubs, flowers, and turf. Subcategories are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Ornamental plants and shade trees — exterior;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Ornamental plants — interior; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Turf and lawn pest control.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Seed Treatment. This category authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control on seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Aquatic. This category authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control in or on standing or running water, wetland areas, or within tidal areas. This category does not include applicators engaged in public health pest control listed below.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Right-of-Way and Weed. This category authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control in the maintenance of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any public road, electric powerline, pipeline, railway right of way, or similar area; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Noncropland, fence lines, structural perimeters, or similar area.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Industrial, Institutional, Structural, and Health Related Pest Control. This category authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control in, on, or around any food handling establishment, dwelling, business, or institution, such as schools, hospitals, industrial establishments, boxcars, ships, and airplanes. Subcategories are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>General pest control — pest control of household pests within or adjacent to a structure of any kind. This subcategory does not include any subcategory indicated below.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Wood destroying insects — pest control involving termites and other wood destroying insects in or on a structure of any kind. This subcategory includes pretreating areas before completion of a structure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Wildlife control — pest control involving birds, mammals, reptiles, and other wildlife not covered by the rodent control category. A person who holds a current Wildlife Damage Control Permit, as required by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources under COMAR 08.03.15, is not required to hold a license, permit, or certificate for wildlife pest control under the Maryland Pesticide Applicators Law, if that person does not:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Provide damage control services for European starlings, feral pigeons, and house sparrows; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Use pesticides, including repellants, in the course of that person's operations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Rodent control — pest control involving rodents found in or around structures.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Fumigation — pest control involving the use of a fumigant to treat structures or commodities.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Public Health. This category authorizes a pest control applicator, public agency applicator, or pest control consultant to perform pest control in public health programs for the management and control of pests having medical and public health importance including, but not limited to, the management and control of mosquitoes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Regulatory. This category authorizes a public agency applicator to perform pest control of regulated pests.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Demonstration and Research. This category authorizes a person to demonstrate pesticide and pest control application techniques or to supervise these demonstrations. Examples of individuals in this category are extension specialists, county agents, teachers, and commercial representatives demonstrating pesticide products, and those individuals demonstrating methods used in public programs. This category also includes a person who conducts research with pesticides and, in doing so, uses or supervises the use of pesticides.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Miscellaneous. This category authorizes a pest control applicator, pest control consultant, or public agency applicator to perform pest control in a category not included above. Subcategories are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Wood treatment — pest control for the preservation of wood or wood products, including utility pole maintenance, and includes, but is not limited to, pressure treatments, dipping, soaking, diffusion, injection, and topical applications;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Tributyltin (TBT) antifoulant paint — pest control involving the use of marine antifoulant paints containing tributyltin;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Sewer root control — pest control involving the control of roots in sewer lines.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Consultant. This category authorizes a pest control consultant to perform pest identification, provide technical advice on pest control procedures, and make pesticide recommendations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Aerial. This category authorizes a pest control applicator or public agency applicator to perform pest control by fixed-wing or rotary aircraft to any crop or land area.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Certification Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Pest Control Applicator, Pest Control Consultant, and Public Agency Applicator. Each applicant for a pest control applicator certificate, pest control consultant certificate, or public agency applicator certificate shall be 18 years old or older, demonstrate proof of practical and scientific knowledge of pest control and meet the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Pay an annual fee of $75 plus $25 for each category in excess of one (public agency applicators are exempt from the fee);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Pass an examination given by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Have one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>One year of experience acceptable to the Department as a full-time registered employee engaged in those categories in which the applicant seeks to be certified (proof of experience may include affidavits from former employers, certification or licensure from other states or the federal government);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A degree or academic certificate acceptable to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>A combination of education and experience acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Recertification. A certificate shall be renewed annually by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Applying to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Demonstrating satisfactory knowledge of pesticide use by attending a training course approved by the Department, or by reexamination; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Paying the annual certification fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Duration.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A pest control applicator certificate is valid beginning July 1, or whenever obtained, until June 30.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A pest control consultant certificate is valid beginning January 1, or whenever obtained, until December 31.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If an application for renewal of a Pest Control Applicator or Pest Control Consultant Certificate is received by the Department more than 30 days after the expiration date of the certificate, the applicant is subject to a $30 late fee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Examinations for Certification of Pest Control Applicator, Pest Control Consultant, and Public Agency Applicator."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each applicant for certification shall pass a written examination, given by the Department, in each category for which the applicant qualifies. Each applicant shall apply to the Department at least 1 month before the scheduled examination date and specify the category in which the applicant seeks to be certified.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall give the examination at least twice a year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An applicant shall correctly answer 70 percent of each examination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>There is a $10 fee for each reexamination. Public agency certificate applicants are exempt from the fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An individual who has not renewed the certificate by its expiration date, June 30th of each year, may be reexamined as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>An individual who passes an examination, but does not complete the other requirements for certification within 1 year from the date of the examination, shall be required by the Department to retake the examination.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Licenses — Types and Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Types. Each place of business performing pest control shall be licensed in those categories in which it operates. The licenses are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Pesticide business license — issued to a business performing pest control work;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pest control consultant license — issued to a business providing pest control consultation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Not-for-hire license — issued to a person who performs, or whose employees perform, pest control services on property that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Owned by the person; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Open to, or routinely used or enjoyed by members of the public, at the person's express or implied invitation, even though a fee or other charge may be administered for the property's use or enjoyment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requirements. An applicant for license or renewal of a license shall annually:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Apply to the Department on a Departmental form;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Designate an individual who is certified in those categories for which the business is licensed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pay a $150 fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Insurance Requirements. An applicant for a pesticide business license or a renewal of a pesticide business license shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Meet the requirements for minimum financial responsibility for bodily injury and property damage by carrying liability insurance with limits not less than:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Bodily injury — $100,000 each person, $300,000 each occurrence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Property damage — $15,000 each occurrence, $30,000 annual aggregate provision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Furnish to the Department a certificate of insurance by an insurance company licensed to do business in the State. The license shall keep the insurance in force for the licensing period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Duration.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A pesticide business license is valid beginning July 1, or whenever obtained, to June 30.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A pest control consultant license is valid beginning January 1, or whenever obtained, to December 31.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A not-for-hire license is valid beginning July 1, or when obtained to June 30.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If an application for renewal of a Pesticide Business license, Pest Control Consultant license, or Not-for-Hire license is received by the Department more than 30 days after the expiration date of the license, the applicant is subject to a $30 late fee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Public Agency Permit — Operation and Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Operation. A public agency that performs pest control shall annually obtain a public agency permit indicating those categories in which the Department authorizes it to perform pest control.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requirements. An applicant for a permit annually shall apply to the Department on Departmental forms and designate an individual who is certified in those categories in which the agency is permitted to do pest control.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Records. Records of each pest identification, pesticide recommendation, and pesticide application shall be made as provided in Regulation .12 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Duration. A public agency permit is valid beginning July 1, or whenever obtained, until June 30.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Records."> <text>Each licensee and permit holder shall maintain for 2 years records of each pest identification, pesticide recommendation, or pesticide application, and shall make these records immediately available, on request, to the Department. The following information shall be recorded, when applicable:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Name of applicator or consultant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Date of application, recommendation, or pest identification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The plant, animal, or site to which the pesticide was applied or recommended, and the pest to be controlled;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Acreage, square footage, cubic footage, linear footage, or numbers of plants or animals or a description of the area or structure treated with the acreage, square footage, cubic footage, or linear footage recorded when label instructions specify these measurements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Address of treated property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Name of owner or tenant of property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Common name and EPA registration number of pesticide or pesticides used or recommended;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Rate and concentration of pesticides used or recommended;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Total amount of pesticide used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Type of equipment used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Time of day of application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="L."> <text>The direction and estimated velocity of the wind at the site when the pesticide was applied, although this information need not be recorded if the application consists of baits in bait stations or is made in, or within 3 feet of, a structure.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Dealer Permit — Operation, Requirements, and Restrictions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Operation. A person who sells or distributes restricted use pesticides shall hold a dealer permit from the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requirements. An applicant for this permit shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Apply to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>List the dealer's name or business name, location, and phone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Assign an individual to act as the Department's contact at the dealer's business office;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Keep sales records as outlined in §E of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Pay a $25 permit fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The permit shall be valid beginning January 1, or whenever obtained, until December 31.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Restriction.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A dealer may not sell or distribute a restricted use pesticide to any person other than:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A permitted dealer; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A certified applicator or that person's authorized representative.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Proof of authorization shall be provided before sale or distribution.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Records. A person who sells or distributes restricted use pesticides shall maintain records, as indicated below, on the sale or distribution of each restricted use pesticide. These records shall be held for 2 years, and shall be available, on request, to the Department. The following information shall be recorded:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name of pesticide or pesticides sold or distributed, including formulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Quantity sold or distributed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Date of sale or distribution;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Name and address of purchaser or receiver; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Name and address of the certified applicator, if different from §E(4) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Standards for Inspection for Pests."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Responsibilities — General. The following standards apply to each person regulated under this chapter, and each pest inspection shall be done according to the following standards by a person who is competent to determine the presence of target pests or their damage:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each inspection shall include a careful visual observation and thorough examination of the readily accessible area, object, material, structure, or part of a structure inspected. Particular attention shall be directed to those areas where target pests are likely to occur, based upon the habits and natural tendencies of the target pest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The inspector shall report accurately all findings in writing to the person or persons for whom the inspection was performed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The report shall indicate any findings or visible evidence of the target pest or pests. The initial inspection report for any wood destroying insect shall include a diagram of the structure inspected that indicates locations where target pests are found. Upon subsequent inspection, the initial inspection diagram shall be updated if structural changes are visible or when an insect reinfestation is observed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A copy of any inspection report for pest control contracted shall be held by each licensee, permit or certificate holder for 2 years, and shall be made available, upon request, to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This section applies only to inspections for wood destroying insects made in connection with a property transfer or for the purpose of securing a real estate loan. A person performing this inspection (licensee, certificate holder, or registered employee) shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Sound or probe readily accessible structural members to inspect for wood destroying insects, and direct particular attention to the following readily accessible areas of the structure under inspection:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Exterior. The exterior of a structure below eye level, without the use of ladders, shall be inspected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Interior/General, Including the Attic. The interior of the structure, including readily accessible attic area, shall be inspected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Interior/Basement. The interior of the basement area shall be inspected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Interior/Crawl Space. The crawl space area shall be inspected.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Using Form MD-1, Maryland Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report, complete an inspection report containing the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Date of inspection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Name and address of licensee performing inspection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Name of person performing inspection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Name of property owner or seller if known;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Address of property or structure inspected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Description of structure inspected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Indicate areas of the structure inaccessible to inspector, including, but not limited to, areas of the basement, crawl space, main level, attic, exterior and attached garage or porch, and indicate reason why the area is inaccessible;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Indicate presence or absence of wood destroying insects;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Indicate visible evidence, if any, of wood destroying insects, including a description of the specific location of damage and insect, or insects, involved;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Indicate visible damage, if any, to the structure, and if known indicate whether damage has, or will be, corrected or further evaluated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Indicate if insect control measures were performed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(l)"> <text>Indicate visible evidence of previous treatment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(m)"> <text>A statement required by the department about conditions conducive to infestation that may be present in or around structures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(n)"> <text>The name of the inspector and signature and title of the company representative if different from the inspector.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Include with the inspection report a diagram of the structure inspected showing the locations where visible evidence of wood destroying insects is found, including the specific location of damage observed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The licensee is responsible for the cost of producing the inspection report form required under this section.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Canine Pest Detection Teams.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person may not operate a pest control business using a canine scent pest detection team to detect any pest, unless both the dog and the dog’s handler are trained according to the requirements of this regulation and the business is licensed and certified as required by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each team shall be certified as satisfactorily trained, for pest detection by an individual or organization recognized by the Department, for each target pest for which it intends to offer pest detection services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A team may only be certified as trained for pest detection and not dogs or handlers who are not part of a team.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A team shall be recertified each year as satisfactorily trained in pest detection work.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An individual or organization that trains or certifies a team for pest detection work may use pseudo-scents and extracts for training purposes but shall not use them for certification testing purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Each person who operates a pest control business shall maintain accurate records of the training of each team and its certification. These records shall be maintained for 2 years and shall be made immediately available, on request, to the Department. The following information shall be kept:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the handler and the dog;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The name, address and telephone number of the individual or organization that provided initial training, maintenance training, certification, or recertification of the handler and dog;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The date when initial training, maintenance training, or recertification was completed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A certification by the individual or organization that trains the team that it has successfully completed any required training; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Proof that the team has been recertified as required by this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Each team training test shall be designed by the qualified person to accurately evaluate the ability of a team to satisfactorily perform pest detection work.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>All training tests shall take place under conditions that are similar to conditions where target pests may be found.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Any test shall consist at a minimum of 4 areas or spaces designed to restrict odors from moving between areas or spaces.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Each test area described in §C of this regulation shall contain at least 2 distractors and 3 hides as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The person performing a testing shall place hides in the testing room or space at least 30 minutes before testing begins;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A distractor shall represent the typical encountered under field conditions by a team in the region the team operates; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If a dead target pest is used as a distractor, the pest shall have been dead for at least 48 hours.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>The time limit for completing the search of all rooms, spaces or areas for a pest by a team is 20 minutes, excluding the time spent by the team travelling between rooms or spaces. Individuals or organizations conducting canine scent detection team testing shall adjust the time limit of the test to account for varying size rooms and spaces.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>The person conducting any testing shall pass or fail the team, however, one false alert is allowed but it cannot be on a placed distractor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>If any dog is treated cruelly during testing, the dog team fails any test.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>At least two individuals shall conduct each test for the satisfactory detection of the team for a pest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>Each individual conducting the test shall have a minimum of 5 years of documented experience, recognized by the Department, in dog scent handling, training and evaluation in at least one of the following areas:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Law enforcement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Other government agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Military; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Other comparable experience verifiable by the Department in dog scent detection training or evaluation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person testing a team may not be the dog’s current or former trainer and may not have any business or financial interest in the team’s business.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A person who tests a team for the detection of pests may have standards that are stricter than the standards provided in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Posting of Sign."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A licensee or permittee applying a pesticide to a lawn or to exterior landscape plants shall post, at the time of application, a sign which conforms to the requirements of this regulation. This regulation applies only to a licensee or permittee in pest control category III—ornamental or turf, as described in Regulation .08 A(3) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The licensee or permittee who is required to post a sign under this regulation shall model it after that shown in Figure A and shall see that it meets the requirements described in §B(1)—(8) of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Size—4 inches in height × 5 inches in width.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Composition—made of a sturdy, weather resistant material.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Type—rigid, as opposed to a flag.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Color—yellow background with black, bold-faced lettering.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Information contained on front of sign—the same words and symbols in the specified sizes as shown in Figure A.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Information contained on the back of the sign shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Indicate the following:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Date applied;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Name of licensee/permittee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Telephone number of licensee/permittee;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Be at least 18 point type (5/32 inch) in size; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Be either stamped or hand printed on the sign, printed on a stick-on label and placed on the sign, or printed on the sign.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Stake—flexible, preferably not wire.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Posting height—the bottom of the sign shall be at least 12 inches but not more than 16 inches above the surface of the soil.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For cemeteries, golf courses, parks, and similar sites, the Department may permit the licensee or permittee, before posting the sign, to vary the sign characteristics required by §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The licensee or permittee shall place the sign required by this regulation at one of the following locations:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At each primary access to the property treated, with the front of the sign facing the access;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If only a spot pesticide application is made, or only a small area of a large area receives a pesticide application, a sign may be posted at the location where the pesticide application was made, with the front of the sign facing the probable path of access to the area; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For cemeteries, golf courses, parks, and similar sites, a sign shall be placed as described either in §D(1) or (2) of this regulation, or in a location approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The sign shall remain in place for 48 hours following the pesticide application, after which time the customer is responsible for removal of the sign.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A person may not remove, alter, or deface the sign or agree to conspire with another to remove, alter, or deface the sign within 48 hours of its posting.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The customer or licensee may not be held liable for any penalty for sign removal under this chapter if the sign is removed by another person or cause over which the customer or licensee has no control.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Pesticide Information for Customer."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When a pesticide is applied, or at the time a customer enters into a contract with a licensee for pest control, a licensee shall provide a customer with the following written information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name of licensee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maryland pesticide business license number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Licensee telephone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Maryland Poison Center telephone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Common name of pesticide or active ingredient applied; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>One of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An original or legible copy of the current pesticide product label;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An original or a legible copy of that portion of the current pesticide product label or labeling containing precautionary statements regarding hazards to humans or animals and environmental hazards, if any; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A document containing appropriate health, safety, or precautionary information that has been taken from the pesticide label and approved by the Department before its distribution.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In addition to the required information in §A(6) of this regulation, a licensee may provide the customer with additional product information, such as:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fact sheet on the product; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Additional labeling information provided by the product manufacturer (registrant).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Product information, other than the current product label or labeling, that the licensee provides to the customer to comply with the requirements in §A(6) of this regulation shall be approved by the Department before its distribution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Upon the customer's request, the licensee shall provide the customer with advance notice of a pesticide application.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="List of Pesticide Sensitive Individuals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Operations.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>This regulation applies to a licensee or permittee in the following pest control categories:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Category (III) — ornamental or turf, as described in Regulation .08A(3) of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Category (VIII) — public health, including the management of mosquitoes, as described in Regulation .08A(8) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The notification requirements specified in this regulation do not apply to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s mosquito control program operated pursuant to Agriculture Article, Title 5, Subtitle 4, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A county in the State that provides mosquito control services, including, but not limited to, Baltimore County, Calvert County, Caroline County, and Wicomico County.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department shall prepare from information provided by an applicant for registration a list of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Pesticide sensitive individuals who have registered with the Department under §B of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Property owners who are contiguous or adjacent to those registered individuals and who may contract for pest control.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Department shall distribute:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The list by February 15 of each year to licensees and permittees in the:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Ornamental or turf pest control category; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Public Health pest control category; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An updated list, when determined necessary by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requirements for Registration.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon request, the Department shall register a person:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>With a documented pesticide sensitivity, provided that person submits to the Department a current valid certificate from a physician indicating the person's pesticide sensitivity; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Who submits to the Department a physician's certificate indicating the person should not be exposed to a pesticide because of a current diagnosed condition or ailment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An applicant for registration shall provide the Department with the name, street address, and telephone number of the applicant and of each contiguous or adjacent property owner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A person qualifying for registration according to §B(1) of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>May apply to the Department at any time for registration; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Shall notify immediately the Department of any address change.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A physician's certificate is needed only for an initial registration.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Registration is free.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Annual renewal of registration shall be on a form provided by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Requirements of Licensee or Permittee. Before making a pesticide application to a property contiguous or adjacent to the property of a registered individual, a licensee or permittee shall notify the person registered with the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>By telephone the day before, or the morning of, a planned pesticide application; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In person, or by a written notice delivered to the residence of the registered individual, before the pesticide is applied to a contiguous or adjacent property.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Enforcement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may issue a civil penalty or suspend, revoke, or deny any license, certificate, permit, or registered employee identification card, for any of the following reasons:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Violating any provision of the Maryland Pesticide Applicators Law, these regulations, or the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, as amended;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Failing to establish and consistently maintain liability insurance required by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Conducting a pesticide application or inspection for pests in a faulty, careless, or negligent manner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Failing to make or maintain records or reports as required by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Making false or fraudulent records or reports, including a false or misleading pest inspection report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Operating equipment for the purpose of applying pesticides without the supervision of a certified applicator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Committing fraud or misrepresentation in making application for licensure or certification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Exceeding the limits of the type or purpose of operation, as defined on the license, certificate, or permit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Failing or neglecting to maintain equipment used in pesticide application in good and proper working order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Presenting false or misleading information in the inspection for, identification of, or control of, pests;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Being convicted of fraud in the performance of pest control;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Failing to allow the Department to inspect or sample as outlined in Regulation .03G of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Applying a pesticide without a certificate or license as required by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Failing to provide to the Secretary any requested record as required by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>Failing to ensure that each employee, other than a certified applicator, completes a Department-approved training program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>Failing to pay a civil penalty imposed under Regulation .20 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>Applying a pesticide to the property of another without the expressed permission of this property's owner or other person with authority to exercise control, management, or possession of the property.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In an emergency, the Secretary shall suspend a license, certificate, or permit immediately upon finding that public health, safety, or welfare imperatively warrants it.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An individual whose certificate, or part, is revoked or suspended may be required to retake the examination in the category for which that individual applies to be recertified after the suspension or revocation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Hearings and Appeals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Hearings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When a person is charged by the Secretary with a violation of this chapter, the Secretary shall give the person charged an opportunity to be heard pursuant to COMAR 15.01.01 concerning procedural rules on hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Following an emergency suspension a hearing shall be held promptly.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Appeals. A person whose license, certificate, permit, or registered employee identification card is denied, revoked, or suspended, may appeal according to Department regulations and the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".20" heading="Assessment of Civil Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the Department determines that a person has violated any provision of the Maryland Pesticide Applicators Law, these regulations, or the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, as amended, it may impose a civil penalty of not more than $2,500 for a first violation and not more than $5,000 for each subsequent violation. The total penalties imposed on a person for violations that result from the same set of facts and circumstances may not exceed $25,000.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In assessing a civil penalty imposed under §A, of this regulation, the Department shall give consideration to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation, the extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator but uncorrected by the violator, and the extent to which the violator exercised reasonable care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any actual harm to human health or to the environment including injury to or impairment of the use of the waters of this State or the natural resources of this State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The cost of control;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The nature and degree of injury to or interference with general welfare, health, and property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The extent to which the location of the violation, including location near areas of human population, creates the potential for harm to the environment or to human health or safety; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The extent to which the current violation is part of a recurrent pattern of the same or similar type of violation committed by the violator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person may appeal under Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Department's decision to impose a penalty.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Unless a stay has been granted, a person against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this regulation shall pay the amount of the penalty promptly to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103, 5-104, 5-105, 5-106, 5-204, 5-207, and 5-210.2, Annotated Code of Maryland; Ch.598, §11, Acts of 2018</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March 1, 1970</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective November 10, 1976 (3:23 Md. R. 1304)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective December 2, 1985 (12:24 Md. R. 2354)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective January 14, 1988 (15:1 Md. R. 20)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective January 14, 1988 (15:1 Md. R. 20)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02D amended effective July 1, 1987 (14:4 Md. R. 421)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A amended as an emergency provision effective December 2, 1985 (12:25 Md. R. 2469); emergency status expired February 2, 1986; adopted permanently effective March 24, 1985 (13:6 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A amended effective July 25, 1988 (15:15 Md. R. 1810)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05E amended effective November 30, 1987 (14:24 Md. R. 2556)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective July 25, 1988 (15:15 Md. R. 1810)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 amended effective November 30, 1987 (14:24 Md. R. 2556)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09B amended effective September 14, 1992 (19:18 Md. R. 1658)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10A amended effective July 1, 1987 (14:4 Md. R. 421)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .10 and .11 recodified to Regulations .11 and .12 and new Regulation .10 adopted effective January 14, 1988 (15:1 Md. R. 20)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .10—.12 recodified to Regulations .13—.15 and new Regulations .10—.12 adopted effective July 25, 1988 (15:15 Md. R. 1810)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .14A amended effective July 25, 1988 (15:15 Md. R. 1811)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16 adopted effective July 25, 1988 (15:15 Md. R. 1811)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective October 25, 1993 (20:21 Md. R. 1657)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective July 8, 2013 (40:13 Md. R. 1076)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective February 14, 1994 (21:3 Md. R. 194); April 7, 2008 (35:7 Md. R. 751)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02D adopted effective March 27, 2017 (44:6 Md. R. 328)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02D amended as an emergency provision effective July 6, 2018 (45:15 Md. R. 723); amended permanently effective October 8, 2018 (45:20 Md. R. 919)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02E repealed as an emergency provision effective July 6, 2018 (45:15 Md. R. 723); repealed permanently effective October 8, 2018 (45:20 Md. R. 919)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02E adopted as an emergency provision effective March 27, 2020 (47:9 Md. R. 475); adopted permanently effective June 15, 2020 (Md. R. 597)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03C, F amended effective April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 674)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A amended effective April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 674)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A amended as an emergency provision effective October 1, 2010 (37:23 Md. R. 1608); amended permanently effective January 13, 2011 (38:1 Md. R. 11)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06E repealed effective August 18, 2003 (30:16 Md. R. 1076)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07C amended effective April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 674)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08A amended effective April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 674); November 16, 2009 (36:23 Md. R. 1818)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08B amended effective August 18, 2003 (30:16 Md. R. 1076); April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 674)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08D adopted as an emergency provision effective October 1, 2010 (37:23 Md. R. 1608); amended permanently effective January 13, 2011 (38:1 Md. R. 11)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09D amended as an emergency provision effective October 1, 2010 (37:23 Md. R. 1608); amended permanently effective January 13, 2011 (38:1 Md. R. 11)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 amended effective April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 674)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10B amended effective August 18, 2003 (30:16 Md. R. 1076)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10E adopted as an emergency provision effective October 1, 2010 (37:23 Md. R. 1608); amended permanently effective January 13, 2011 (38:1 Md. R. 11)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12D amended as an emergency provision effective October 1, 2010 (37:23 Md. R. 1608); amended permanently effective January 13, 2011 (38:1 Md. R. 11)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .14C, D, E adopted effective July 8, 2013 (40:13 Md. R. 1076)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17A amended effective November 18, 2019 (46:23 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18A amended effective February 14, 1994 (21:3 Md. R. 194); April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 674)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19B amended effective April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 674)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">COMAR 15.05.01 cited in Attorney General Opinion No. 82-008 (February 17, 1982) which upheld the power of the Department of Agriculture to suspend or revoke a pest control operator's business license for failing to make a thorough structural inspection for wood-destroying pests.</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">COMAR 15.05.01 cited in Attorney General Opinions No. 85-025 (October 28, 1985) and No. 88-006 (February 4, 1988)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Integrated Pest Management and Notification of Pesticide Use in a Public School Building or on School Grounds"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope of Regulations."> <text>This chapter sets forth the procedure for a county board of education to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Develop and implement in its schools and on school grounds an integrated pest management system; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notify a parent or guardian of a student attending a public school, a student, or a school staff member before a pesticide is applied in a school building or on school grounds during the school year.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Bait” means an insecticide or rodenticide mixed with a food material that attracts a pest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Bait station” means a container enclosing an insecticide or rodenticide bait.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Contact person” means an individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Knowledgeable about integrated pest management; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Designated by a county board to act as a contact for inquiries about the integrated pest management system.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Crack and crevice treatment” means the application of small amounts of a pesticide in a building into openings such as those commonly found:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>At expansion joints;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Between levels of construction; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Between equipment and floors.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Emergency” means a sudden need to mitigate or eliminate a pest which threatens the health or safety of a student or staff member.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Integrated pest management” means a managed pest control program in which methods are integrated and used to keep pests from causing economic, health-related, or aesthetic injury through the utilization of site or pest inspections, pest population monitoring, evaluating the need for control, and the use of one or more pest control methods, including sanitation, structural repair, nonchemical methods, and, when nontoxic options are unreasonable or have been exhausted, pesticides, in order to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimize the use of pesticides; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Minimize the risk to human health and the environment associated with pesticide applications.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Pesticide.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Pesticide” means a substance or mixture of substances intended for:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating a pest;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Use as a spray adjuvant, such as a wetting agent or adhesive.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Pesticide” does not include:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>An antimicrobial agent, such as a disinfectant, sanitizer, or deodorizer, used for cleaning purposes; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A bait station.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“School” means a public school in the public elementary and secondary system of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“School year” means that period during the year defined by each county board of education when public schools are regularly open for students.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Space Spraying.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Space spraying” means an application of pesticide by discharge into the air throughout an entire room or area by a fogger or aerosol device.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Space spraying” does not include crack and crevice treatment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Staff Member.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Staff member” means an employee of a school system.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Staff member” includes an administrator, teacher, or other support personnel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>“Staff member” does not include:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A registered employee or pest control applicator certified by the Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>An individual assisting in the application of a pesticide.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Universal notification” means written notice by a school to all parents, guardians, and staff members.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Integrated Pest Management System."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>County Board of Education Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each county board of education shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Develop and implement for its schools an integrated pest management system approved by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>File a written integrated pest management plan with the Department for approval.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When any change is made to the integrated pest management system, the county board of education shall submit the revised integrated pest management plan to the Department for approval before the initiation of the new plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The integrated pest management system of a county board of education shall meet the following minimum requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Have an integrated pest management policy;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Have a policy on pest management roles and responsibilities of decision makers, including the name, address, and telephone number of the contact person;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Have procedures for conducting the pest control program, including pest management objectives;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Have procedures for regular inspection and monitoring activities to determine the presence and distribution of pests;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Have standards to determine the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Severity of pest infestation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Need for corrective action;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Require each school:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>To make records documenting:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Pest sightings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Pest control procedures; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Any communications to students and staff members regarding integrated pest management or pesticide use; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>To maintain these records for 2 years and make these records immediately available, on request, to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Have pest management strategies, including sanitation, structural repair, physical, cultural, and biological control, nonchemical methods and pesticide application, when nontoxic options are unreasonable or have been exhausted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Provide education and training of staff members, students and parents or guardians in integrated pest management procedures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Require an annual evaluation of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Integrated pest management strategies; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Program quality assurance; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Have procedures for notification of a parent or guardian of a student attending the school and of a staff member at the school before a pesticide is applied in a school building or on school grounds.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Information for Parent, Guardian, or Staff Member."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>School Notice Requirement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At the beginning of each school year, each school shall include notice of the school's integrated pest management system in the school calendar or other universal notification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The notice required in §A(1) of this regulation shall include the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A statement that explains the school's integrated pest management system;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A list of the common name of any pesticide or bait station that may be used in a school building or on school grounds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The name, address, and telephone number of the contact person;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A statement that the contact person maintains the product label and material safety data sheet of each pesticide or bait station used in a school building or on school grounds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A statement that the:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Product label or material safety data sheet is available for review by a parent, guardian, staff member, or student attending the school, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Contact person is available for information or comment; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Instructions for including a parent, guardian, or staff member on a pesticide notification list provided for in §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>After the beginning of a school year, a school shall provide the written information required by this regulation to a:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Parent or guardian of a newly enrolled student; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Newly employed staff member.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The written notice shall be approved by the Department before distribution.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Pesticide Notification List.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At the beginning of each school year, each middle school or high school shall develop a pesticide notification list of each staff member and of each parent or guardian of a student attending the school who requests in writing prior notification of a pesticide application made during the school year in the school building or on school grounds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The school shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Keep the pesticide notification list current; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Add names upon written request by a:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Parent or guardian of a student attending the school, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Staff member.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The school shall make the pesticide notification list available to the Department, upon request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Notification of a Pesticide Application in an Elementary School Building or on School Grounds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>During the school year, each school that enrolls elementary school students shall notify each parent or guardian of a student attending the school and each staff member:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At least 24 hours before a pesticide is applied in a school building or on school grounds; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For emergency pest control:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Within 24 hours after a pesticide is applied, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>On the next school day, as provided in Regulation .09 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The following information shall be provided in the notification required by §A of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Common name of the pesticide applied;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Location of the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Date and time of the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The following language: “The Office of Pesticide Programs of the United States Environmental Protection Agency has stated: `Where possible, persons who potentially are more sensitive, such as pregnant women and infants (less than 2 years old), should avoid any unnecessary pesticide exposure'”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A brief description, approved by the Department, of potential adverse effects, based upon the material safety data sheet of the pesticide applied; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Reason for the emergency application, if applicable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The school shall provide notification by a written notice sent home with each student or provided to each staff member.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For application on school grounds, the notice of the planned date and time of application may specify that weather conditions or other extenuating circumstances may cause the actual date of application to be postponed to a later date or dates.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the actual date of application is more than 14 days later than the planned date provided in the notice, notice of the application required under this regulation shall be reissued.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Notification of a Pesticide Application in a Middle School Building or High School Building or on School Grounds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>During the school year, each middle school or high school shall notify each parent or guardian and staff member on the pesticide notification list, as provided in Regulation .04B of this chapter:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At least 24 hours before a pesticide is applied in a school building or on school grounds; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For emergency pest control:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Within 24 hours after a pesticide is applied, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>On the next school day, as provided in Regulation .09 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The following information shall be provided in the notification required by §A of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Common name of the pesticide applied;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Location of the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Date and time of the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The following language: “The Office of Pesticide Programs of the United States Environmental Protection Agency has stated: `Where possible, persons who potentially are more sensitive, such as pregnant women and infants (less than 2 years old), should avoid any unnecessary pesticide exposure'”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A brief description, approved by the Department, of potential adverse effects based upon the material safety data sheet of the pesticide applied; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Reason for the emergency application, if applicable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The school may provide prior notification by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A written notice sent home with the student or provided to the staff member;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A telephone call;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Direct contact; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A written notice mailed at least 3 days before the application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For application on school grounds, the notice of the planned date and time of application may specify that weather conditions or other extenuating circumstances may cause the actual date of application to be postponed to a later date or dates.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the actual date of application is more than 14 days later than the planned date provided in the notice, notice of the application required under this regulation shall be reissued.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Notification of Space Spraying."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided by Regulation .09 of this chapter, each school that intends to use space spraying in a school building shall provide written notice to each parent or guardian and staff member at least 1 week before the application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The written notice shall be sent home with each student or provided to each staff member.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The notice shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be on a separate paper sheet at least 8-1/2 by 11 inches in size; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Contain:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Common name of pesticide to be used,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Location of space spraying,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Planned date and time of space spraying,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The following language: “The Office of Pesticide Programs of the United States Environmental Protection Agency has stated: `Where possible, persons who potentially are more sensitive, such as pregnant women and infants (less than 2 years old), should avoid any unnecessary pesticide exposure'”,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A brief description, approved by the Department, of the pesticide to be applied, if the pesticide is not addressed in the notice as provided by Regulation .04 of this chapter,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>A brief description of potential adverse effects based upon the material safety data sheet of the pesticide to be applied, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>The name and telephone number of the contact person.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="In-School Notification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Pesticide Application in a School Building.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each school system shall develop an appropriate means of in-school notification to students and staff before a pesticide is applied in a middle school building or high school building.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The in-school notification shall include a sign or notice posted:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>At the room or area of the pesticide application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Either:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>At the primary entrance to the school, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>In a central school location accessible to parents, guardians, students, and staff.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In-school notification to students and staff may also include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Oral announcements; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Written notices.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The notice or sign shall include the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Caution—Pesticide Application”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Common name of the pesticide applied;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Location of the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Date of the application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Contact person for additional information, including information on potential adverse effects.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The notice or sign shall remain posted for at least 48 hours after a pesticide is applied.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Bait Station.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each school system shall provide in-school notification to students and staff before a bait station is used in any school.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The in-school notification shall include a sign or notice posted on the door of the room or primary entrance to the area in which the bait station is placed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The notice or sign shall include the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Caution-Pesticide Application”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Common name of the pesticide applied;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Date the bait station was placed in the room or area; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Contact person for additional information, including information on potential adverse effects</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The notice or sign shall remain posted until the bait station is removed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Pesticide Application on School Grounds.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each school system shall develop an appropriate means of in-school notification to students and staff before a pesticide is applied on the school grounds of a middle school or high school.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The in-school notification shall include a sign or notice posted:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>At the primary entrance to the school; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In a central location accessible to parents, guardians, students, and staff.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In-school notification to students and staff may also include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Oral announcements; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Written notices.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The notice or sign required under §C(2) of this regulation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Include the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>“Caution—Pesticide Application”,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Common name of the pesticide applied,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Location of the application,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Date of the application, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Contact person for additional information, including information on potential adverse effects; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Remain posted for at least 48 hours after a pesticide is applied.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Emergency Pest Control."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A pesticide may be applied in a school building or on school grounds without prior notification only if an emergency pest situation exists.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 24 hours after an emergency pesticide application, or on the next school day, the school shall notify:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The parent or guardian of each student and each staff member at an elementary school according to Regulation .05 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each parent or guardian and staff member on the pesticide notification list provided by Regulation .04B of this chapter, for a middle school or high school according to Regulation .06 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Pesticide Application in a Public School Building or on School Grounds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A licensee, permittee, or certificate holder may not apply a pesticide in a school building or on school grounds until notification is provided in accordance with Regulation .05, .06, .07, or .08 of this chapter, unless provided in accordance with Regulation .09 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person who applies a pesticide in a school building or on school grounds shall be a:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Certified applicator; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Registered employee working under the supervision of a certified applicator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A licensee, permittee, or certificate holder shall provide the school with a record of each pesticide application at the time of the pesticide application.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Posting of Sign on School Grounds."> <text>A licensee or permittee applying a pesticide to a school ground shall post, at the time of application, a sign which conforms to the requirements of COMAR 15.05.01.15B—G.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§5-204 and 5-208.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.10 adopted as an emergency provision effective February 11, 1999 (26:5 Md. R. 388); adopted permanently effective May 3, 1999 (26:9 Md. R. 730)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01—.06 and .08—.10 amended as an emergency provision effective April 28, 2000 (27:10 Md. R. 963); amended permanently effective July 24, 2000 (27:14 Md. R. 1343)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2002 (29:3 Md. R. 214); amended permanently effective April 15, 2002 (29:7 Md. R. 622)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective December 11, 2003 (30:24 Md. R. 1745)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2002 (29:3 Md. R. 214); amended permanently effective April 15, 2002 (29:7 Md. R. 622)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective January 24, 2011 (38:2 Md. R. 85)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 adopted as an emergency provision effective April 28, 2000 (27:10 Md. R. 963); adopted permanently effective July 24, 2000 (27:14 Md. R. 1343)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="06" heading="Plant Pest Control"> <chapter num="01" heading="Movement of Vegetable Plants into Maryland"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope of Regulations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Regulated Area. All states, territories, and districts outside of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Regulated Articles. Vegetable plants intended for transplanting, including broccoli, brussel sprout, cabbage, cauliflower, collard, eggplant, kale, lettuce, onion, pepper, asparagus, sweet potato, and tomato.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Conditions of Movement into Maryland."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any of the regulated articles, free from soil or in soil freed from plant pests by methods acceptable to the certifying agency, may be moved into Maryland when accompanied by an official inspection certificate of the state of origin. The certificate shall establish that the plants were grown under, and meet the requirements of, an official plant certification program of the state of origin and that the plants were certified to be free of plant pests based on an inspection made not more than 3 days before shipment or removal from the soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The official inspection certificate shall be attached to each crate, basket, or other container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Each crate, basket, or other container of plants shall be labeled individually as to variety and number of transplants.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Transplant Standards."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Imported transplant standards include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All plants shall be of good quality in color, freshness, firmness, strength, straightness, undamaged condition, uniformity of size, and physical condition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Plants shall be apparently free from injurious pests, fruit, excessive bloom, and weeds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Plant count shall equal or exceed the number listed on the container.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Inspection at Maryland Destination."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any of the regulated articles entering the State are subject to inspection by the Department, and, if any are found to be infested with plant pests, or do not meet transplant standards, or are not accompanied by a valid certificate, they may be destroyed immediately or ordered removed from the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Each container shall be conspicuously labeled with the name and address of the grower and shipper, the varietal name or names, and the plant count of each variety.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§5-301—5-313, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 13, 1977 (4:8 Md. R. 644)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Plant Pest Control Regulations"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Broker” means a person, except a nurseryman or dealer, who solicits, takes orders, sells, or distributes nursery stock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Dealer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Dealer” means a person, except a nurseryman or broker, who:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Advertises nursery stock for sale or installation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Buys, collects, or otherwise acquires wild plants or nursery stock for the purpose of selling, planting, or distributing them.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Dealer” does not include a person who acquires plants for personal use.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Inspection” means the physical or visual examination of nursery stock or other plant materials and its environs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Inspector” means an employee of the Department designated to enforce these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Location” means each place from which nursery stock is sold, offered for sale, or distributed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Nursery” means a place where nursery stock is produced for sale or distribution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Nursery Inspection Certificate (NIC)” means a certificate issued by the Department to a designated nursery.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Nurseryman” means a person engaged in the production of nursery stock for sale or distribution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Nursery stock” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any hardy plant or plant that survives Maryland winters, including a deciduous or evergreen tree, shrub or woody vine whether cultivated, native, or wild, and all viable parts of the plant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Any nonhardy plant or plant part to be distributed in another state that requires plant inspection and certification before entering that state; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any other plant included by the Secretary, if regulating its movement is necessary to control any dangerously injurious plant pest.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, partnership, corporation, association, organized group of persons, or any other legal entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Plant Broker License (PBL)” means a license issued by the Department to any persons designated as a broker.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Plant Dealer License (PDL)” means a license issued by the Department to any persons designated as a dealer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Plant pest” means any insect, snail, nematode, fungus, virus, bacteria, weed, or any other form of terrestrial or aquatic plant or microorganism which is normally considered to be a plant pest or which the Secretary declares to be a plant pest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“State of origin” means the state where nursery stock was produced or maintained during the previous growing season.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Categories of Operation."> <text>The following categories of operations are established and, upon meeting the requirements of these regulations, a person in these categories will be issued the type of certificate or license indicated:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Nursery Inspection Certificate.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Christmas tree production—the production of Christmas trees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Greenhouse plant production—the growing of nursery stock under glass, fiberglass, plastic or other similar material.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Landscape nursery operation—the production of nursery stock to be used for landscape purposes by the producing nursery.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Nursery stock production—the growing of nursery stock for sale or distribution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Public agency nursery—a federal, State, or local government agency engaged in the production of nursery stock for research or educational purposes, for reforestation projects, or for use on public lands.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Plant Broker License. Broker—a person acting as an agent or middleman between a grower and a wholesale or a retail customer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Plant Dealer License.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Chain store—one of two or more retail outlets owned by a person selling nursery stock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Collector—a person engaged in the collection and the sale or distribution of wild or native nursery stock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Garden center—an operation engaged in the sale or distribution of nursery stock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Landscape contractor—a person who installs nursery stock on the property of another.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Mail order--the shipping or drop-shipping (at retail) of nursery stock from orders solicited or received through the mail.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Certification of Nurseries."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A nursery producing nursery stock for distribution, exchange, or sale shall hold a valid Nursery Inspection Certificate for each sales location.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requirements for Certification. An applicant must fulfill the following requirements for certification:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make application to the Department on forms provided by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Furnish an affidavit attesting to the number of acres, or part of an acre, devoted to the production or maintenance of nursery stock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pay annual fees as specified in Regulation .06A at the time of application for, or renewal of, a certificate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Provide access for the inspection of all nursery stock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Follow appropriate cultural practices such that an adequate inspection of the nursery stock can be made;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Provide a suitable means of identifying similar blocks of nursery stock, as required by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Keep nursery stock free of plant pests;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Furnish a list of his suppliers of nursery stock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A nursery will be assigned a permanent certification number at the time all requirements for certification have been met and the original Nursery Inspection Certificate is issued. Unless sooner revoked, a certificate is valid for a year beginning January 1, or date of issuance, and ending December 31.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A certificate is not transferable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Nursery inspection certificates will be renewed annually upon meeting all requirements as outlined in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Plant Dealer License."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A plant dealer engaged in the sale or distribution of nursery stock shall hold a valid Plant Dealer License for each sales location.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requirements for Licensure. An applicant must fulfill the following requirements for licensure:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make application to the Department on forms provided by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Furnish a list of his suppliers of nursery stock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintain records for 1 year of plant acquisitions, including certificate of inspection or another document indicating consignor and state of origin;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Furnish an affidavit attesting to the number of acres, or part of an acre, used as a holding or sales yard for nursery stock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Pay annual fees as specified in Regulation .06A at the time of application for, or renewal of, a license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Provide access for the inspection of all nursery stock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Follow appropriate cultural practices such that an adequate inspection of the nursery stock can be made;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Provide a suitable means of identifying similar blocks of nursery stock as required by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Keep nursery stock free of plant pests.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A plant dealer will be assigned a permanent license number at the time all requirements for licensure have been met and the original license is issued. Unless sooner revoked, a license is valid for a year beginning January 1, or date of issuance, and ending December 31.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A license is not transferable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Plant dealer licenses will be renewed annually upon meeting all requirements as outlined in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Plant Broker License."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A plant broker engaged in the business of soliciting, taking orders, selling, or distributing nursery stock in the State shall hold a valid Plant Broker License.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requirements for Licensure. An applicant must fulfill the following requirements for licensure:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make application to the Department on forms provided by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pay the annual license fee as specified in Regulation .06B at the time of application for, or renewal of, a license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Furnish a list of nurseries for which he acts as a broker.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A plant broker will be assigned a permanent license number at the time all requirements have been met and the original license is issued. Unless sooner revoked, the license is valid for a year beginning January 1, or date of issuance, and ending December 31.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A license is not transferable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Plant broker licenses will be renewed annually upon meeting all requirements as outlined in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Fee Schedule."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Fees shall be assessed according to the requirements in §§B—I of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Persons Issued a Nursery Inspection Certificate or a Plant Dealer License.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For field inspections of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>1 acre or less— $20;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>More than 1 acre to 5 acres—$30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>More than 5 acres to 10 acres—$40;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>More than 10 acres—$5 for each acre or part of any acre, up to a maximum of $1,500.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Nursery Inspection Certificate—$150 a year for each sales location.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Plant Dealer License—$150 a year for each sales location.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Persons issued a Plant Broker License. Plant Broker License—$150 a year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Certified Seed Potatoes.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Production.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Field Inspection—$4 an acre or part thereof a year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Bin Inspection—2 cents for each 100 pounds.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Imported Seed for Planting. Boxcar or Warehouse Inspection—8 cents for each 100 pounds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Fees are due upon receipt of an invoice from the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Trueness to Name Plant Certification.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Fees—$50 per acre or part of an acre in plant production.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Fees are due upon receipt of an invoice from the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Virus-Free Plant Certification.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Certification Fee. Each plant producer shall pay the Secretary the following certification fee for each acre, or part of an acre, in plant production:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Strawberry plants—$50;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Grapevines, fruit trees, and bramble plants—$70.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Fees are due upon receipt of an invoice from the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Miscellaneous Service Fees.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Soil sample analysis:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>pH—$10;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Fertility—$10;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Pathogen—$25;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Nematode—$25.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pest identification:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Routine—$5;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Nonroutine—$15;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Urgent—$25.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Equipment fumigation:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Equipment pick up—$25;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Equipment return—$25;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Hive body/deep super—$4;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Shallow super—$3.50;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Miscellaneous equipment—$1.50.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Phytosanitary certificates:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Including travel—$25;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Excluding travel—$5.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Other Miscellaneous Fees—up to $25 for each:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Publication;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Inspection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Analysis; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Sample.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>A federal, State, or local public agency is exempt from the license and inspection fees required by this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Plant Standards."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Identification of Nursery Stock Produced in Maryland.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each piece of nursery stock offered for retail sale shall be accompanied by a label containing the following information, except as provided in §A(2), below:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Plant Name. This name may be the scientific name or an approved common name, or both. The variety name may also be on the label, but may not be used in lieu of the scientific or approved common name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Height or caliper or grade or diameter if sold by this measure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Price of each plant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Nursery stock offered for retail sale shall be exempt from individualized labeling, provided it meets one of the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Nursery stock that is balled and burlapped, packaged, or in a container shall be grouped by identical size, variety, and cost into a bed or lot separated from similar beds or lots. Each bed or lot shall be marked with a permanent legible sign containing the information required by §A(1) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Each block, bed, or row of nursery stock growing in the field shall be marked with a permanent legible sign containing the plant name.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Each piece of nursery stock, or lot of identical pieces, sold or transported for wholesale, shall be accompanied by a bill of lading, delivery ticket, invoice, or label containing the information, except price, required by §A(1), above.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Identification of Nursery Stock Grown Outside the State.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All nursery stock grown outside the State and shipped into the State shall meet the minimum standards for nursery stock grown in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If this nursery stock is to be sold at retail, it shall comply with §A(1), above, at time of retail sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If this nursery stock is sold at wholesale, it shall comply with §A(3), above.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If nursery stock is to be shipped from the State to any other state, it shall remain labeled conspicuously as to the name of the plant and the state of origin while maintained in the State. This nursery stock shipped from Maryland shall comply with §A(3), above.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Labeling and Advertising.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Nursery stock may not be labeled or advertised with false or misleading information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A label shall be legible at the time of sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A person may not offer for sale, sell, or distribute, any nursery stock represented to be “virus-free”, “essentially virus-free”, or any other similar notation, unless that stock is produced under a program accepted by the Department. All plants offered for sale as “virus-free,” “essentially virus-free”, or any other similar notation shall have state of origin and name of producer on the label.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Maintenance of Nursery Stock.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Nursery stock offered for sale shall be kept in a healthy condition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Nursery stock which is dead or dying may not be sold or offered for sale.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Infested Plants or Plant Parts."> <text>Any plant or plant part, whether or not included under the definition of nursery stock, found in the State infested with injurious plant pests, is subject to stop sale or condemnation seizure procedures outlined in Regulations . 09 and .10, respectively. Infested plants may be returned to the shipper, treated, destroyed, or otherwise disposed of by the inspector without compensation to the consignor.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Stop Sale."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Nursery stock infested or infected with a dangerously injurious plant pest (See Regulation .12A) may be marked with a stop- sale tag indicating that it may not be sold or distributed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The owner, tenant, or person in charge of the property where nursery stock covered by a stop-sale notice is located shall be given written notice of the stop-sale action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person may not sell, offer for sale, use, dispose of, or in any way destroy nursery stock covered by a stop-sale notice, or detach, alter, or destroy any attached tag without the Department's written authorization.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Nursery stock covered by a stop-sale notice shall be treated or destroyed as specified by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Condemnation Seizure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A condemnation seizure notice may be issued for nursery stock originating in, or shipped into, the State, infested or infected with plant pests.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Nursery stock infested or infected with any pest listed in Regulation .12A shall be destroyed unless the shipper or consignor agrees to have the plants returned to him at his expense.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Nursery stock infested or infected with any pest listed in Regulation .12B shall be destroyed unless the shipper or consignor agrees to have the plants returned or treated at his expense.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Nursery stock ordered treated may not be sold or offered for sale until it has been released for sale by the inspector. The cost of any required treatment shall be paid by the shipper or consignor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The shipper or consignor shall forfeit any nursery stock condemned, seized, or destroyed, and may not collect its value from a purchaser or consignee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A condemnation seizure notice may be issued for nursery stock that is not properly certified by the state of origin. The nursery stock shall be destroyed unless the shipper or consignor agrees to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Have the nursery stock returned at his expense;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provide proper certification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Authorize an inspector to examine and certify the nursery stock at the expense of the shipper or consignor.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Treatment or Destruction Orders."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Nursery stock infested or infected with a plant pest (See Regulation .12A--B) shall be ordered treated or destroyed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The owner, tenant, or person in charge of nursery stock covered by a treatment order shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Learn from the inspector of suitable techniques for control of the pests;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Have the nursery stock treated; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Inform the inspector in writing when pests have been controlled.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a suitable control technique is not available, or if control is not obtained, or if the owner, tenant, or person in charge of the nursery stock fails to comply with a treatment order, nursery stock shall be destroyed by the owner in a manner approved and supervised by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the owner, tenant, or person in charge refuses or fails to comply with the destruction order, the</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Department shall seize, destroy, or treat the infested or infected nursery stock and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Owner shall pay costs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Classification of Plant Pests."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Dangerously Injurious Plant Pests.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A stop sale notice may be issued when any plant pest of quarantine significance is detected or is a plant pest that is not known to occur in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Insects. A stop-sale notice may be issued when the following insects are detected:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Stem and trunk borers such as Dogwood, Ash, Lilac, Iris, Rhododendron, Lesser peach tree, Bronze birch, and peach tree;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Scale insects, such as Euonymus, Elongate hemlock, Hemlock, Pit, Obscure, Japanese maple, Latania, Camellia, Oystershell, San Jose, Tea, White peach, Yangicola;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Beetles, such as Whitefringed, Black vine weevil, Fullers rose beetle, White pine weevil;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Caterpillars such as Gypsy moth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Gall adelgids such as Eastern spruce;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Leafminers, such as Boxwood;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Plant Diseases. A stop-sale notice may be issued when the following plant diseases are detected:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Vascular wilt diseases, such as Dutch elm disease, Oak wilt, Verticillium wilt, Mimosa wilt, Phytophthora wilt, Elm phloem necrosis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Canker diseases, such as Chestnut blight, Nectria cankers, Botryosphaeria cankers, Cytospora cankers, White pine blister rust, Phytophthora cankers, Fusarium cankers, Strumella cankers, Volutella cankers, Phomopsis cankers, Discula anthracnose of dogwood;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Bacterial diseases, such as Crown gall, Fire blight, Wetwood (Slime-flux);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Galls, such as Rust galls on Pinus spp., Black knot on Prunus spp., Cedar-apple rust galls on Juniperus spp., Crown gall, Root-knot nematode;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Plants infected with viruses or phytoplasms, such as Holly ringspot, Rose mosaic, Rose ring pattern, Stem pitting of Prunus, Fasciation, Witches'-broom Tospoviruses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Root diseases, such as Armillaria root rot (Shoestring root rot); Phytophthora, Pythium, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium root rots; Damping-off; Wilts; Root-knot, cyst, and other plant parasitic nematodes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Needle blight, needle cast, and needle rust diseases of evergreens, such as Diplodia tip blight, Phomopsis blight, Brown spot needle blight, Lophodermium needle cast, Rhabdocline needle cast, Coleosporium needle rust;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Gymnosporangium rusts, such as Hawthorn, and Cedar-apple;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Any other disease or abnormal condition of growth determined by the Department to be dangerously injurious to plants.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Weeds. A stop-sale notice may be issued when the following weeds are detected infesting the soil known as the root ball: Mugwort, Bermudagrass, Dodder, Johnsongrass, Poison ivy, Thistles, Witchweed, Mile-a-Minute, or any other weed determined by the Department to be dangerously injurious.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Harmful Plant Pests.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Insects. A treatment order may be issued when the following insects constitute a serious threat or are causing economic damage to nursery stock:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Scale insects, such as Gloomy, Putnam, Scurfey, Wax, Magnolia, Tulip trees, Peony;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Caterpillars, such as Bagworm, European pine shoot moth, Nantucket pine tip moth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Lace bugs, such as Azalea, Andromeda, Hawthorn;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Adelgids, such as pine bark;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Leafminers, such as Holly;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Mites, such as Twospotted spider, Spruce spider, Southern red;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Beetles, such as Japanese, Japanese Weevil, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Aphids.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Diseases. A treatment order may be issued when the following diseases or disorders constitute a serious threat or are causing economic damage to nursery stock: Foliar and flower diseases, such as Anthracnose, Powdery mildew, Leaf spots, Botrytis blight, Scab, Sooty mold, Leaf blister, Petal and flower blights, nutritional problems.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Weeds. A treatment order may be issued when the following weeds are detected in a nursery or sales yard: Mugwort, Dodder, Johnsongrass, Yellow Nutsedge, Thistle, or any other weed determined by the Department to be harmful.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Reciprocal Agreements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Nursery stock from other states shall be received in the State on the same basis as nursery stock from the State is received in other states.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An official directory of certified nurseries and licensed plant dealers will be accepted from other states in lieu of an individually filed certificate or license.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>All fees for inspection, certification, registration, or licensure, or all of these, will be waived by the Department for out- of-state nurseries, plant dealers, and brokers selling or distributing nursery stock in the State, providing similar fees are waived for State nurseries, plant dealers, and brokers by the reciprocating state.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Importation of Living Insects, Plant Disease Agents and Other Pests."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may not import into the State any live insect, plant disease agent, or other pest for research, educational, or other purposes unless that importation is authorized by a permit issued by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Applications for permits are furnished by the Department upon request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Permit holders shall comply with the conditions specified on the permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Any shipment or lot which is not authorized by a valid permit shall be destroyed immediately unless the Secretary determines that the contents of a shipment or lot do not pose any danger to agriculture. If the Secretary issues this determination, a shipment or lot will be held for proper certification or will be returned to its point of origin.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Plant Certification Programs."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person producing plants for special certification under a program supervised by the Department shall meet the standards for certification required by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person producing certified plants will be assessed a fee as indicated in Regulation .06.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Phytosanitary Certificates."> <text>Plants shipped interstate or internationally may be required by another jurisdiction to have a Department-issued phytosanitary certificate before shipment. The Department will issue a certificate only when required by the destination state or country. If a person requests the Department to issue this certificate, that person shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notify the Department at least 2 weeks before the scheduled shipping date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Provide information as required by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Provide access for the inspection of plants to be certified.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Revocation, Suspension or Denial of License, Certificate, or Permit."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department, after notice and an opportunity for a hearing, may revoke, suspend, or deny a license, certificate, or permit or impose a civil penalty for a failure to comply with the Plant Pest Control Law or regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may appeal the denial, revocation, or suspension of a license, certificate, permit, or civil penalty according to Departmental regulations and the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Criminal Penalty."> <text>A person who violates any provision of these regulations is subject to the following penalties or fines:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>First offense: Upon conviction, a fine not exceeding $500, or imprisonment not exceeding 3 months, or both.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Second or subsequent offense: Upon conviction, a fine not exceeding $1,000, or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year, or both.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Civil Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the Department determines that a violation of this subtitle has occurred, it may impose a civil penalty of not more than $500 for each violation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Instead of, or in addition to, suspension of the license, permit, or certificate; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In addition to revocation of the license, permit, or certificate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In assessing a civil penalty imposed under §A(1) of this regulation, the Department shall give consideration to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation, the extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator, but uncorrected by the violator, and the extent to which the violator exercised reasonable care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any actual harm to the agriculture, environment, and natural resources of this State; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The extent to which the current violation is part of a recurrent pattern of the same or similar type of violation committed by the violator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Unless a stay has been granted, a person against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this regulation shall pay the amount of the penalty to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§5-301—5-314 and 9-302, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 13, 1978 (5:1 Md. R. 19)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01B, J; .06; .07A, C; .12A; and .16 amended effective February</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">10, 1986 (13:3 Md. R. 273)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective August 3, 1992 (19:15 Md. R. 1393)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1728)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06B amended effective October 27, 2025 (52:21 Md. R. 1025)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06B, C amended effective August 9, 2010 (37:16 Md. R. 1060)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06C amended effective April 13, 2026 (53:7 Md. R 328)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Collection and Conservation of Maryland Ginseng"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Ginseng” means any part of the wild herb, American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Person” means an individual, partnership, corporation, association, or organized group of persons, or any other legal entity.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Scope of Regulations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Regulated area: Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Regulated article: American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.), intended for sale.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Collecting Season and Size Limitations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Ginseng roots may be collected only during the collection season from September 1 through December 1.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Roots from ginseng plants less than 5 years of age or with fewer than three five-leaflet leaves (three prongs) or with immature seeds (green berries) may not be collected.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Planting Seeds."> <text>Unless otherwise authorized by the Department, all seeds from collected or harvested ginseng plants shall be planted properly in the vicinity of the collected plant immediately after collection or harvest.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Collecting Permits."> <text>A person who collects or harvests ginseng intended for sale shall hold a valid annual collecting permit for each collecting season.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Permit Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A permit applicant shall do the following annually:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make application on Departmental forms;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pay a $2 fee to the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintain the following records for 3 years and make them available, upon request, to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The amount of ginseng collected in each county,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The name and address of any dealer who purchases ginseng from the collector.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A collecting permit is not transferable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>After a hearing by the Department, a collecting permit may be revoked for a violation of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Ginseng Certification."> <text>Before selling ginseng, a collector shall certify on a Departmental form where the ginseng was collected or harvested. Before moving ginseng for sale from Maryland, a collector or dealer shall have it physically inspected and certified by a representative of the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Ginseng Dealer Registration and Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who buys ginseng for resale shall register annually with the Department and pay a $20 fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Dealers shall keep the following records for 3 years and make them available, upon request, to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For each sale, the name and permit number, or dealer registration number, of the seller and the weight in pounds and ounces or kilograms and grams of ginseng purchased.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The total amount paid annually for ginseng collected in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>After a hearing by the Department, a dealer's registration may be revoked for a violation of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §9-603, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.06 adopted as an emergency provision effective July 7, 1978 (5:15 Md. R. 1184); emergency status expired October 6, 1978</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.07 adopted effective October 6, 1978 (5:20 Md. R. 1500)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective February 14, 1983 (10:3 Md. R. 210)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective May 17, 2010 (37:10 Md. R. 723)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Regulation of Invasive Plants"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations establish a science-based status assessment protocol to determine the harm and impact caused by invasive plants, including an approval procedure for activities involving invasive plant species that cause or are likely to cause severe harm and administrative orders that the Secretary may issue to enforce these regulations.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Classify as a prohibited invasive plant” means the Secretary is including an invasive plant on the Consolidated List of Maryland Invasive Plant Species in accordance with the Agriculture Article, §§9.5-301 and 9.5-301.1, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Commercial entity” means an entity that engages in a plant removal activity for profit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Committee” means the Invasive Plants Advisory Committee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Consolidated List of Maryland Invasive Plant Species” means a list of plant species classified as prohibited invasive plants in accordance with Agriculture Article §§9.5-301 and 9.5-301.1, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) Plant Species” means a nonnative plant species that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is not yet widespread in the State but is at risk of:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Becoming established as an invasive species; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Causing significant damage; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Been found in at least one native species habitat in the State; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Not yet been found in the State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Expert Assessor” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An individual or a team within the Department or the Department of Natural Resources; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A qualified independent assessor.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Invasive plant.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Invasive Plant means any living part of a plant species or its subspecies that did not evolve in the State and if introduced within the State, will cause or is likely to cause, as determined by the Secretary:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Economic harm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Ecological harm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Environmental harm; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Harm to human health.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Invasive plant” includes a commercial or noncommercial plant that is terrestrial or aquatic and meets the definition under §B(7)(a) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Invasive Plant Species Status Assessment Protocol” means a protocol based on the NatureServe’s 2004 protocol (An Invasive Species Assessment Protocol: Evaluating Non-Native Plants for the Impact on Biodiversity. Version 1.)</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Invasiveness Rank” means a rank assigned to a nonnative species to signify its level of invasiveness (i.e., high, medium, low or insignificant) based on the results of an invasive assessment protocol.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Landscaping services” includes services for ornamental horticultural design, maintenance, and installation of living plants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Prohibited invasive plant” includes invasive plant species that cause or are likely to cause severe harm within the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Qualified independent assessor” means an individual or team that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Possesses at least 2 years of field experience in invasive plant species in Maryland or in nearby jurisdictions, including Washington, D.C., Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has assessed invasive plant species without supervision from the Department, the Department of Natural Resources or the Committee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Watch List” means a list of plant species that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Have been assessed by an expert assessor in accordance with Agriculture Article, §9.5-301, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Were not determined by the assessment to be eligible for classification as a prohibited invasive plant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>May be reassessed in the future.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Invasive Plant Species Status Assessment Protocol."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary shall determine whether an invasive plant qualifies as a prohibited invasive plant or a plant for the Watch List based on the following protocol. An expert assessor shall complete a plant status assessment based on the NatureServe’s 2004 protocol (an invasive species assessment protocol: evaluating non-native plants for their impact on biodiversity. Version 1.)</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Assessments completed by an expert assessor shall be reviewed and approved by the Invasive Plant Advisory Committee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Prohibited Plant Prohibitions and Approvals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as approved by the Secretary under this regulation, a person may not propagate, import, transfer, sell, purchase, transport, or introduce any living part of a prohibited invasive plant in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may conduct an activity prohibited under §A of this regulation if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The person receives approval from the Secretary before conducting the activity; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The activity is for the purpose of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Disposing of the invasive plant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Controlling the invasive plant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Using the invasive plant for research or educational purposes; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Exporting the invasive plant out of the State</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person has the Secretary’s approval and may engage in any activity prohibited by §A of this regulation for the limited purpose of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Controlling a prohibited invasive plant, provided:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The person is not a commercial entity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The plant is not taken off-site; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The plant is not placed at a location in the proximate vicinity of a roadway or waterway that could facilitate the movement of the invasive plant off-site; or</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Transporting a prohibited invasive plant off-site for the purpose of identification or disposal, provided:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The person is not a commercial entity; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The plant is removed according to the provisions of Regulation .06G of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For approvals not granted under §C of this regulation, a person may submit a written request to the Secretary for approval of any activity allowed under §B of this regulation with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Business, nursery, or plant dealer license number if applicable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Phone;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Email address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Prohibited invasive plant for which approval is being requested (full botanical name);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Specific location of the prohibited invasive plant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Proposed activity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Method of safeguarding dispersal of all propagules and all other living parts of the prohibited invasive plant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Time frame of the proposed activity; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Any other information required by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Upon notice and an opportunity to be heard, the Secretary may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Withdraw or revoke any approval for any person who violates any condition of any approval by the Secretary; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Revise any approval as a condition of any permit, based on new information obtained after an approval is granted.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Administrative Orders By The Secretary."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary may issue administrative orders to enforce the provisions of this chapter and Agriculture Article, Title 9.5 (Invasive Plants Prevention and Control), Annotated Code of Maryland, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Order any person to cease propagating, importing, transferring, selling, purchasing, transporting, or introducing any living part of a prohibited invasive plant in the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Order the condemnation and seizure of any prohibited invasive plant owned or possessed by any person who violates Agriculture Article, §9.5-302(b), Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Order the marking or tagging in a conspicuous manner of a prohibited invasive plant owned or controlled by any person subject to an order of the Secretary under this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Order any person, on notice from the Secretary, to dispose of any prohibited invasive plant that is held in violation of this chapter or in violation of Agriculture Article, Title 9.5, Annotated Code of Maryland, in a manner that renders all plant parts nonviable, or allow a person to return a prohibited invasive plant to the out-of-State supplier of the plant, as approved in advance by the Secretary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Order a person to make any prohibited invasive plant available to the Secretary for destruction if the person has failed to dispose of the prohibited invasive plant as ordered by the Secretary and require that person to pay any destruction cost;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Order a person to take any action that the Secretary considers necessary to enforce the requirements of Agriculture Article, Title 9.5, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person who violates any order issued by the Secretary is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $500 for each violation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Prohibited Invasive Plants and Watchlist Plants."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Prohibited invasive plants are those plants listed on the Consolidated List of Maryland Invasive Plant Species found on the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s website, Plant Protection and Weed Management page.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Phase-out periods for Prohibited Invasive Plants.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person in possession of a prohibited invasive plant, except a person who is growing a woody plant in ground, shall comply with the prohibited invasive plant provisions of this chapter within 1 year of that plant’s effective date on the prohibited invasive plant list.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person who is growing a prohibited invasive plant in ground shall comply with the provisions of this chapter within 2 years from that plant’s effective date on the prohibited invasive plant list.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A person may not acquire a new prohibited invasive plant after that plant’s effective date on the prohibited invasive plant list.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Sales Limited to Existing Stock. During the phase-out period, a person may only sell the existing stock of a prohibited invasive plant that person has in inventory as of the date the plant was placed on the prohibited invasive plant list.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Exemption Request.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Secretary may consider an exemption request from a nursery, broker or plant dealer licensed under Agriculture Article, §5-309, Annotated Code of Maryland to extend the phase-out period for a specific plant species that has been placed on the prohibited plant list.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In considering an exemption request, the Secretary shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Receive and consider input from the Invasive Plant Advisory Committee including the species’ economic harm, ecological harm, environmental harm, and harm to human health; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Consider the economic impact that the phase-out period has on the affected person.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The person seeking the exemption shall submit a written request to the Secretary providing the same information specified in Regulation .04D of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>If the Secretary grants a person’s exemption request to extend the phase-out period for a specific plant species, the extension may not be more than 1 year.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Secretary shall maintain a listing of plants on the Watch List, which listing may be amended from time to time.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Procedures for Classification or Declassification of a prohibited invasive plant and associated cultivars.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person who requests the classification or declassification of a plant as a prohibited invasive plant, shall submit a written request to the Secretary that includes the name of the requestor, contact information, scientific name of the plant, and a justification for the request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Upon receipt of the request the Secretary, in consultation with the Invasive Plant Advisory Committee, shall make a determination, considering:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Whether the plant is or could potentially be sold or marketed in the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the plant has already been assessed pursuant to Regulation .03 of this chapter, whether new, science-based information is available that could change the species' designation as a prohibited invasive plant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the plant has not been assessed pursuant to Regulation .03 of this chapter, whether the justification for the request, including documented scientific evidence of economic, ecological, or environmental harm, or harm to human health, necessitates formal weed status assessment, assessment of invasiveness, or both.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Secretary shall notify the requestor of the final decision regarding the request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Distribution of the Prohibited Invasive Plant List and the Watch List.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall send the Prohibited Invasive Plant List and the Watch List with annual renewal letters and with each new application for a nursery, plant dealer, or plant broker license.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary shall post the Prohibited Invasive Plant List and the Watch List on the Department's website.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A person in the business of providing landscaping services who plants or supplies for planting a plant on the Watch List shall provide to the customer requesting the service the Watch List.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Disposal of Prohibited Invasive Plants. Any person who removes a prohibited invasive plant off-site shall ensure that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The plant is completely contained (for example, covered or securely tarped in a solid conveyance, or bagged) to prevent the escape of plant parts into the environment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the plant is being removed for disposal, it is removed to a Maryland Department of Environment approved landfill or compost facility for burial or composting.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103(b) and 9.5-301, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="Emergency Action">53:3 25-186-E (Regulations .01 — .06) EMERGENCY ACTION IN EFFECT 1/15/2026 — 7/14/2026</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 21, 2013 (40:1 Md. R. 21)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective April 11, 2016 (43:7 Md. R. 452)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2026 (53:3 Md. R. 120)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2026 (53:3 Md. R. 120)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2026 (53:3 Md. R. 120)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A, C, D amended as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2026 (53:3 Md. R. 120)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A amended as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2026 (53:3 Md. R. 120)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective February 13, 2017 (44:3 Md. R. 189)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2026 (53:3 Md. R. 120)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A, C amended effective April 23, 2018 (45:8 Md. R. 422)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06C amended effective March 23, 2020 (47:6 Md. R. 342)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 repealed as an emergency provision effective January 15, 2026 (53:3 Md. R. 120)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Regulation of Noxious Weeds"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations establish a list of plants and weeds that are considered to be noxious weeds in this State. They also describe programs or practices that the Department may carry out that are necessary for the control and eradication of noxious weeds.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Noxious weed” means an annual, biennial, or perennial weed or plant that adversely affects or threatens agricultural production.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Noxious Weed List."> <text>The Secretary has determined that the following weeds and plants are noxious weeds in this State:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Shattercane (Sorghum biclor);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Canada Thistle (Circium arvense);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Musk/Knodding Thistle (Carduus nutans);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Plumless Thistle (Carduus acanthoides);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Bull Thistle (Circium vulgare);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Tall Waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus, A. rudis).</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Programs and Practices to Control and Eradicate Noxious Weeds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary may institute programs or carry out practices necessary for the control and eradication of a noxious weed on public or private lands, including, but not limited to, mowing and spraying.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Secretary may enter into agreements with a county or other political subdivision of the State, including a soil conservation district, to implement a program for the control and eradication of noxious weeds. These agreements may allow the Department to provide technical assistance and oversight by a noxious weed program administered by the county or other political subdivision of the State. The Secretary also may enter into agreements with an adjoining state or an agency of the federal government to implement a program for the control and eradication of noxious weeds.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Administrative Penalties."> <text>Instead of pursuing the criminal penalties set forth in Agriculture Article, Title 12, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Secretary may impose on any person who violates this chapter a penalty of:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For a first violation, not more than $500;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For a second violation, not more than $1,000; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For a third or subsequent violation, not more than $2,000.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§9-401 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 1, 2020 (47:11 Md. R. 560)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="07" heading="Apiary Inspection"> <chapter num="01" heading="General Regulations"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Abandoned apiary” means an apiary in which the owner or operator fails to manipulate the colonies in the customary manner, such as:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Inspect each colony in the spring and notify the Department of any colony with a disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Provide super room during honey flow;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Remove the honey crop at the end of the season;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Inspect each colony in the fall when the crop is removed and notify the Department of any colony with a disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Provide reasonable and adequate attention to each colony during the year to prevent robbing, which might jeopardize the welfare of neighboring colonies through the spread of disease.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Apiary” means a collection of one or more colonies of bees, including all appliances and equipment used in maintaining and operating it.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Appliance.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Appliance” means any apparatus, tool, machine, or other device, such as gloves or veils used in handling and manipulating bees, hives, honey, and wax.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Appliance” includes any container of honey and wax used in an apiary or in transporting bees, their products, and apiary supplies.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Bee” means any stage of the common honey bee, Apis mellifera L.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Bee disease” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>American foulbrood, European foulbrood, chalkbrood, honey bee tracheal mite, varroa mite, small hive beetle;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Any infectious agent, predator, or parasite determined by the Department to be dangerously injurious to bees; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any abnormal condition of egg, larval, pupal, or adult stages of bees.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Bee equipment” means frames, hives, supers, or other hive parts.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Colony” means the hive and includes bees, combs, honey, and equipment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Hive” includes barrel, box, box hive, frame hive, log gum, skep, or other natural or artificial receptacle or container, or any part of it, which may be used as a domicile for bees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Honey house” means a structure where honey is extracted and processed for sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Inspector” means an individual designated by the Secretary to carry out the provisions of these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Person” includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The State, any county, municipal corporation or other political subdivision of the State, or any of its units;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Registration Certificate."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person keeping a bee colony shall hold a valid registration certificate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person who is not registered as a beekeeper under this regulation and who acquires a colony shall have it registered with the Department within 30 days after the acquisition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A registration certificate shall be renewed annually upon meeting all of the requirements set forth in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>To obtain a registration certificate, a person shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make application to the Department on forms provided by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provide access for the inspection of each colony in each apiary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A person keeping bees shall be assigned a permanent identification number.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Unless revoked, a registration certificate is valid for 1 year beginning January 1, or the date of issuance, and ending December 31.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A registration certificate is not transferable.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Sanitation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each apiary shall be kept in a neat and sanitary condition to promote the welfare of the beekeeping industry.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The beekeeper shall keep the honey house in a neat and sanitary condition and shall meet the sanitation standards set forth in §§C—N of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The honey house shall be so constructed that it can be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. When the honey is extracted, the honey house shall be used exclusively for the extracting, processing, packing, or handling of honey, and for the storage of equipment related to the business of the honey house.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The floors of all rooms in which honey is handled, extracted, processed, packed, or stored shall be clean and in good repair.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Walls and ceilings of rooms in which honey is handled, extracted, processed, packed, or stored shall have smooth, washable surfaces and shall be kept clean and in good repair. The roof of the honey house shall be weather-tight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Openings to the outside in the extracting and packing rooms shall be screened and kept in good repair and may be equipped with bee escapes. Screen doors shall be self-closing. All windows and window sills shall be kept clean.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Rooms shall be adequately ventilated and there shall be sufficient light to permit efficient operation, including cleaning of the equipment. Lights over exposed food zones shall be protected from breakage to avoid product adulteration.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The water supply for the honey processing room shall be easily accessible, adequate, and of a safe, sanitary quality. An adequate supply of clean, hot water shall be available for cleaning equipment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Extractors, tanks, and other equipment with which honey comes in contact shall be stored in such a manner that they are protected from contamination with dust, dirt, rodents, insects, and other contaminants. All equipment shall be kept clean and free from rust.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Workers shall wear clean and washable outer clothing during extracting, processing, packing, or handling of honey and shall keep hands clean. A wash basin with running hot water and clean, sanitary towels shall be provided for workers when the honey house is in use.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Combs of honey shall be protected from contamination while in transit to the honey house. Before extracting, all combs of honey shall be stored in a clean location.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="L."> <text>Honey may not be packed in used containers, unless these containers have been previously used only for human food. All containers shall be free from internal rust and shall be clean and sanitary before honey is packed in them. All previously used cans and containers shall be steamed clean or cleaned with hot water. All honey stored in tanks shall be covered so as to be protected from contamination. Packed honey shall be stored in a clean and sanitary manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="M."> <text>Honey shall be extracted only from combs that are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Free from brood of the bees or the larva of the wax moth or small hive beetle; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Properly capped.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="N."> <text>Covers shall be on extractors except when they are being loaded or unloaded. All honey stored in tanks shall be covered to protect it from contamination.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Diseases."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon the finding of a colony of bees infected with American or European foulbrood, an inspector shall mark the hive housing the diseased colony to designate American foulbrood or European foulbrood and the date of inspection. These markings may not be removed by the owner until permission is granted in writing by an authorized agent of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If disease is found in a colony or apiary, a quarantine notice shall be issued (if deemed necessary by the Department) to the owner of the diseased colony or apiary. This quarantine notice shall designate the disease or diseases present, the number of colonies affected, together with instruction for treatment or disposition. The quarantine will remain in effect until terminated in writing by an authorized agent of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Bees, bee colonies, or bee equipment used near bees may not be moved from the quarantined property on which the diseased colony or apiary is located until written notice that the quarantine has been lifted is received or unless special permission is granted, in writing, by the authorized agent of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>In case of failure to comply with the recommendations for treatment of a diseased colony, or if the colony fails to respond to treatment, the Secretary may proceed to destroy the colony and any bee equipment which may constitute a source of infection. Whenever burning of a diseased colony is necessary, the colony shall be disposed of in the vicinity of the diseased apiary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Abandoned Apiaries."> <text>When an apiary is deemed to be an abandoned apiary, written notice shall be given by certified mail to the owner or operator, if the owner or operator can be located, that the apiary is an abandoned apiary. If the owner or operator cannot be located, the notice shall be served on the owner of the land on which the apiary is located. If the apiary continues to be so abandoned for more than 30 days after notice is served, the Secretary shall take whatever steps are necessary including the removal or destruction, or both, of the apiary, to protect the welfare of neighboring apiaries.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Moveable Frames."> <text>Every person engaged in beekeeping shall provide moveable frames in all hives and shall cause the bees in the hives to construct brood combs in the frames so that any frame may be removed without injury to other combs in the hive.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Dead Colonies."> <text>In any apiary in which a colony or colonies of bees have died, the owner or operator shall securely close the entrance to the hive of the colony or colonies so that other bees cannot obtain honey from it. The entrances shall remain closed so long as the hives remain in any place where bees may gain access to them.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Transporting Bees."> <text>A person may transport through Maryland a bee colony only under the following conditions:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each bee colony shall be screened or covered at all times to prevent bees from escaping;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An operator of a motor vehicle transporting bees shall keep the bees from being agitated by operating the vehicle's motor at all times unless refueling, or unless the bees are enclosed in a refrigerated section of the vehicle where the temperature is maintained at 45°F;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A motor vehicle containing bees may not be operated more than 1 mile from any interstate highway; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If bees are released for any reason from a vehicle, the operator or other responsible person shall report the release immediately to the Maryland Department of Agriculture and Maryland State Police.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Violation."> <text>A person who violates a provision of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor as provided by Agriculture Article, §12-103, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§5-501—5-507, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November 1, 1967</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1729)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .02 and .04B amended effective August 20, 1975 (2:18 Md. R. 1234)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 repealed and new Regulation .02 adopted effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1729)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 repealed and new Regulation .03 adopted effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1729)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04D amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1729)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1729)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 adopted effective December 24, 2012 (39:25 Md. R. 1615)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 adopted effective December 24, 2012 (39:25 Md. R. 1615)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Varroa Mite Control for Bees Transported Into or Through Maryland" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 19, 1990 (17:3 Md. R. 301)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective October 12, 1992 (19:20 Md. R. 1818)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective October 12, 1992 (19:20 Md. R. 1818)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.09 repealed effective December 24, 2012 (39:25 Md. R. 1615)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="08" heading="Turf and Seed"> <chapter num="01" heading="Maryland Seed Law"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Blend” means seed consisting of more than one variety of a kind, each in excess of 5 percent of the whole.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Brand” means a word, name, symbol, number, trademark, or design used to identify seed of one person to distinguish it from seed of another person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Conditioning” means drying, cleaning, scarifying, and other operations which could change the purity or germination of the seed and require the seed lot to be retested to determine the label information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Official sample” means a sample taken by a representative of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Applicability."> <text>Any agricultural, vegetable, flower, tree, shrub, or lawn and turf seed which is sold, transported, offered for sale, or exposed for sale within the State of Maryland is subject to Regulations .03—.13 of this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02-1" heading="Incorporation by Reference."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following documents are incorporated by reference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Documents Incorporated.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Rules for Testing Seeds” (Association of Official Seed Analysts, 1998).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Supplement 1—Revised 1998.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Supplement 2—1999 and 2000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Inspection, Sampling, and Testing Procedures."> <text>In administering the Maryland Seed Law, the inspection, sampling, and testing procedures used and the application of tolerances shall be those established by the “Rules for Testing Seeds” (Association of Official Seed Analysts, 1998), unless otherwise stated in these regulations.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Germination Standards and Tolerances."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Vegetable and Herb Seed.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Minimum germination standards are listed in Regulation .12A. When “Season Packed For” is shown on the label instead of the percentage of germination, the percentage of germination of the seed, when tested, shall equal or exceed the minimum standards listed in Regulation .12A.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All other seed, for which a germination standard has not been established, shall germinate at a minimum rate of 50 percent. Seed germinating at a rate less than the minimum standard shall be labeled “BELOW STANDARD” in not less than 8-point type, except that seed germinating at a rate less than 2/3 of the minimum standard shall be considered unfit for seed purposes and in violation of the Maryland Seed Law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Each lot in violation shall be subject to a stop-sale order and to seizure by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Flower Seed (including wildflowers and ornamental grasses).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Minimum germination standards are listed in Regulation .12B. When “Season Packed For” is shown on the label instead of the percentage of germination, the percentage of germination of the seed, when tested, shall equal or exceed the minimum standard listed in Regulation .12B. All other seed, for which a germination standard has not been established, shall germinate at a minimum rate of 50 percent. Seed germinating at a rate less than the minimum standard shall be labeled “BELOW STANDARD” in not less than 8-point type, except that seed germinating at a rate less than 2/3 of the minimum standard shall be considered unfit for seed purposes and in violation of the Maryland Seed Law. Each lot in violation shall be subject to a stop-sale order and to seizure by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A mixture of kinds of flower seed shall be considered below standard when the germination of any kind or combination of kinds (listed on the label as ingredients) constituting 25 percent or more of the mixture, by number, is below standard. A mixture below standard shall be considered the same as a single kind of flower seed and subject to the same labeling requirements and stop-sale or seizure orders as in §B(1), above.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Agricultural Seed and Lawn and Turf Seed. Minimum germination standards for certified and noncertified seed are listed in Regulation .12C. Each seed lot germinating at a rate below the minimum standard shall be subject to a stop-sale order and to seizure by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Noxious Weed Seed."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Prohibited noxious weed seed are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Balloon vine—Cardiospermum halicacabum;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Canada thistle—Cirsium arvense L.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Plumeless thistle, which includes musk thistle and curly thistle—Carduus spp.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Quack grass—Elytrigia repens;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Serrated tussock--Nassella trichotoma;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Sicklepod—Senna obtusifolia;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Sorghum species, which include Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense L.) and hybrids that contain Johnson grass as a parent, and any other kind of grass that produces seed which cannot be distinguished readily from Johnson grass seed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Restricted noxious weed seed in agricultural, vegetable, flower, tree, and shrub seed are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Bindweed—Convolvulus arvensis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Bermuda grass (common and giant)—Cynodon dactylon;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Cocklebur—Xanthium strumarium;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Corn cockle—Agrostemma githago;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Dodder—Cuscuta spp.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Giant foxtail—Setaria faberi;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Horse nettle—Solanum carolinense;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Spurred anoda—Anoda cristata;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Wild garlic—Allium vineale;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Wild onion—Allium canadense.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Restricted Noxious Weed Seed in Lawn and Turf Seed and Mixtures.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §C(4), seed of the following plants shall be restricted noxious weed seed and shall be listed on the tag or label under the heading “Noxious Weed Seed” or “Undesirable Grass Seed” by name and number per pound or ounce when present in bentgrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Chewings fescue, hard fescue, red fescue, varieties of named turf-type tall fescue, varieties of perennial ryegrass, or a mixture containing any of these grasses:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Bent grass** (creeping, colonial, velvet)—Agrostis spp.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Bermuda grass, giant Bermuda grass—Cynodon dactylon;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Annual bluegrass—Poa annua;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Rough bluegrass**—Poa trivialis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Meadow fescue**—Festuca pratensis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Tall fescue**—Festuca arundinacea;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Orchard grass—Dactylis glomerata;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Redtop**—Agrostis gigantea;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Timothy—Phleum pratense;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Velvet grass—Holcus lanatus.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Restricted noxious weed seed set forth in §C(1) may not exceed 0.5 percent by weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If included on the tag or label, seed designated as noxious weed seed in other states shall be listed under the heading “Noxious Weed Seed” or “Undesirable Grass Seed”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The restricted noxious weed seed set forth in §C(1) may not apply to grasses or mixtures clearly labeled for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Pasture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Forage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Hay;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Conservation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Spoil bank reclamation usage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <aftertext>**May be included as a labeled component of a mixture when each is present in excess of 5 percent, by weight, of the mixture.</aftertext> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Standards and Tolerances.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A tolerance may not be allowed for prohibited noxious weed seed found in agricultural, vegetable, flower, tree, shrub, or lawn and turf seed. A seed lot containing prohibited noxious weed seed shall be in violation of the Maryland Seed Law and shall be subject to stop-sale and seizure by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Except as provided in §C, restricted noxious weed seed present in a seed lot shall be listed on the label under the heading “Noxious Weed Seed” and the name and number of seed per unit shall be declared. A unit is defined in the Maryland Seed Law for seeds of different sizes. A tolerance may not be allowed for a seed lot containing restricted noxious weed seed, singly or collectively, at the rate of 17 or more per unit of seed, and the seed lot shall be considered in violation of the Maryland Seed Law and shall be subject to stop-sale and seizure by the Department. The terms “Free” and “None” shall mean that no noxious weed seed was found in a test complying with methods established by the Association of Official Seed Analysts.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Labeling."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Labeling of Seed Lots.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each bag or bulk lot shall be labeled when supplied to a retailer or to a consumer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Conditioned seed in storage shall bear a lot number or other identifying designation on each lot and shall be accessible for official sampling by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A seed lot held for conditioning or storage, but not for sale, shall bear the owner's name and address or lot number. The operator of the warehouse or conditioning plant shall maintain records showing the kind, or kind and variety, quantity, owner or consignor, and consignee of each lot of seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Seed offered for sale when the vendor orally, in writing, or in advertising represents or implies that the seed is suitable for planting shall be deemed to be offered for sale for planting purposes and shall bear labels as required in this chapter. A seed lot offered for sale at an auction, sales barn, farm sale, or similar sale shall meet all seed labeling requirements of the Maryland Seed Law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Proper Labeling.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Required labeling information shall be legibly printed or hand lettered within a single conspicuous location on the container or tag. Origin of the seed, the net weight, and information regarding treated seed may be included within the required labeling information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An official certification tag or label shall be affixed to each container of seed represented to be certified seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A state permit or tax number may not appear on any tag or container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The labeling may not contain a statement or representation that is false, fraudulent, or misleading.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Nomenclature.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A kind or variety name may not be abbreviated or modified. Variety names shall be used in connection with the complete name of the kind, for example, Essex soybean. Descriptive words or phrases may not appear on the analysis label. Brand names may not be used as a substitute for the variety name or to represent a specific variety.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A hybrid, as defined in the Maryland Seed Law, shall be labeled as a hybrid.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The word “type” may not be used as a modifier with the name of a variety.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Descriptive words, phrases, or brand names appearing anywhere on the container shall be clearly distinguishable from the kind and variety name.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Labeling Flower Seed.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Flower seed shall be labeled to show the name of kind and variety, or scientific name when commonly accepted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Seed of Plants Grown Primarily for Their Blooms.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Seed of a single name variety shall be labeled to show the kind and variety name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Seed of a single type and color for which there is no specific variety name shall be labeled to show the kind name, the type of plant, or the type and color of bloom.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Seed of an assortment or mixture of colors or varieties of a single kind shall be labeled to show the kind name, the type of plant, or the type and color of bloom. In addition, it shall be indicated that the seed is mixed or assorted, for example, Marigold, Dwarf Double French, Mixed Colors.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>An assortment or mixture of kinds or varieties, or both, shall be labeled as a mixture and be listed by name, in the order of predominance, giving the percentage by weight of each component of the mixture. Components of less than 5 percent of the mixture shall be listed and a single percentage by weight shall be given for these components. Containers of three grams or less need only list the components without giving percentage by weight and need not be in order of predominance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The name and address of the person who labeled the seed or who sells, offers, or exposes the seed for sale in the State shall appear on the container.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Labeling Lawn and Turf Seeds and Mixtures.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The label format shall be columnar with appropriate headings including “Pure Seed”, “Germination”, “Other Crop Seed”, “Inert Matter”, “Weed Seed”, “Test Date”, “Noxious Weed Seed” or “Undesirable Grass Seed”, and “Lot Number”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For mixtures, the word “mixture” or “mixed” shall be stated in the product name on required labeling and in the product name whenever stated on the container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The name and complete mailing address of the responsible labeler shall be stated on the label.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Required headings may not be abbreviated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Kind and variety names may not be abbreviated or altered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The label shall be free of all non-required claims or statements, except seed origin.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A single test date, including the month and year, may be declared, provided it is that of the oldest tested component.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The commonly accepted name of the kind, or kind and variety, of each lawn or turf seed component consisting of 0.5 percent or more of the whole, and the percentage, by weight, of pure seed of each in order of predominance and in columnar form shall be listed under the headings “Pure Seed” and “Germination”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Other Crop Seed” shall include the percentage, by weight, of all agricultural seed, except those required to be declared as a component of the mixture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>The percentage by weight of inert matter in lawn and turf seed and mixtures of them may not exceed 10 percent, except that 15 percent inert matter shall be permitted in Kentucky bluegrass labeled without a variety name. Foreign matter, other than material used for coating or pelletizing to enhance the planting value, not common to grass seed, may not be added.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Total weed seed, including lawn and turf restricted noxious weed seed, may not exceed 1 percent by weight.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Labeling Tree and Shrub Seed. Tree and shrub seed shall be labeled to show:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Kind and variety, or scientific name, when commonly accepted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Lot number or other means of identification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The specific locality (state and county in the United States or nearest equivalent political unit in case of foreign countries) in which seed was collected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>For forest tree seed, the elevation to the nearest 500 feet above sea level at which the seed was collected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The calendar year in which the seed was collected or the percentage of germination and the calendar year and month in which the seed was tested; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The name and address of the person who labeled the seed or who sells, or offers, or exposes the seed for sale within the State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Labeling Seed for Sprouting. Seed sold for sprouting for salad or culinary purposes shall be labeled to show:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Commonly accepted name of kind or kinds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Lot number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Percentage by weight of each pure seed component in excess of 5 percent of the whole, other crop seed, inert matter, or weed seed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Percent germination of each pure seed component; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The calendar month and year the germination test was completed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Labeling Preplanted Containers, Mats, Tapes, Coated Seed, and Other Devices.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Seed that is coated or pelleted shall be labeled to reflect the percentage of pure seed, not including coating material. The coating or pelletizing material shall be declared as inert matter, percentage by weight, except that the percentage of pure seed and inert matter does not need to be shown on flower or vegetable seed containers of less than 1 pound when the net quantity is labeled on a seed count basis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Seed sold, offered, or exposed for sale, in containers in which the seed is preplanted in a germination medium, mat, tape, or similar device or is coated or pelleted, is subject to the provisions of the Maryland Seed Law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>When the seed is placed in the germination medium, mat, tape, or other device in such a way as to make it difficult to determine the quantity of seed without removing it, the label shall bear a statement to indicate the number of seeds in the container, except for agricultural seed for which the number of seeds per square inch shall be indicated.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Labeling Combination Mulch, Seed, and Fertilizer Products.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The word “combination” followed by the words “mulch—seed—fertilizer (if appropriate)” shall appear on the upper 30 percent of the principal display panel. The word “combination” shall be the largest and most conspicuous type on the container, equal to or larger than the product name. The words “mulch—seed—fertilizer” may not be smaller than 1/2 the size of the word “combination” and shall be in close proximity to the word “combination”. These products shall contain a minimum of 70 percent mulch.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Mulch” as used in this regulation means a protective covering of a suitable substance placed with seed which acts to retain sufficient moisture to support seed germination and sustain early seedling growth and aid in the prevention of evaporation of soil moisture, the control of weeds, and the prevention of erosion.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Analysis Label. Agricultural, lawn, and turf seeds placed in a germination medium, mat, tape, or other device or mixed with mulch shall be labeled as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Product name;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Lot number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Percentage by weight of pure seed of each kind and variety named which may be less than 5 percent of the whole;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Percentage by weight of other crop seeds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Percentage by weight of inert matter which may not be less than 70 percent;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Percentage by weight of weed seeds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Name and number of noxious weed seeds per pound, if present;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Percentage of germination, and hard seed if appropriate, of each kind or kind and variety named and date of test;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Name and address of tagger.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Labeling Treated Seed."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each container of seed treated with a pesticide shall be labeled in a conspicuous location within close association of the required analysis information with at least the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A word or statement indicating that the seed has been treated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The accepted common name, chemical name, or trade name of the pesticide applied to the seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Seed Treated with Pesticide.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Seed treated with a pesticide shall be labeled with the same signal word as that required on the pesticide container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The label on seed treated with a pesticide labeled with a “danger” signal word shall contain in type not less than 8-point the word “DANGER” or, if required, the word “POISON” and the skull and crossbones symbol. The container or attached tag shall bear in a conspicuous manner and place the appropriate signal word and, if required, the symbol in a red color on a background of a contrasting color.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The label on seed treated with a pesticide labeled with a “Caution” or “Warning” signal word shall contain in a conspicuous place the signal word, either “CAUTION” or “WARNING”, stated on the pesticide container label.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>When more than one pesticide is used to treat seed, the labeling required for the seed container shall be for the pesticide with the higher level of toxicity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A container of seed treated with a pesticide shall be labeled in type not smaller than 8-point with the caution statement “Do not use for food, feed, or oil purposes.”</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The information may be on the analysis tag, or in close association with the analysis tag on a separate tag attached to the container, or on the container.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Other treatment materials or processes, not included in §A of this regulation, shall be labeled to reflect the purpose of the treatment or process. The name of the applied material or process, and the date of treatment, shall be stated on the label.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Each seed lot treated with an inoculant shall be labeled to show the presence of the inoculant, and the expiration date beyond which the inoculant is no longer claimed to be effective shall be stated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Each seed lot bearing a label claiming improvements and advantages due to, or as a result of, a treatment may be tested to determine the effectiveness of the treatment. If the evidence does not substantiate the label claim, the seed lot shall be considered mislabeled.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Wholesale Seedsman Permit."> <text>Each wholesale seedsman shall obtain a permit each year from the Department. Each business or branch of a business that is labeling seed shall be considered an individual wholesale seedsman and will be required to obtain a wholesale seedsman permit.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Wholesale Seedsman Record."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each wholesale seedsman or conditioner of seed shall keep records on each lot of seed and shall make the records available for inspection by the Department. Required records shall be maintained for a period of 2 years after the seed lot has been sold or disposed of. The records shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Origin of the seed lot, or the statement that the origin is unknown.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Grower's name and address or supplier's name and address.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Shipper's analysis label, invoice, laboratory report, or other records, or all of the above, reflecting claimed analysis for the seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Documents reflecting prior lot numbers, quantities, date of production or delivery and other information necessary to prove origin identity, including kind and variety. If lot numbers have been changed, all documents shall be maintained reflecting blending, reconditioning, treatment, etc.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Copy of laboratory analysis reports reflecting the lot number and data supporting all label claims.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Such information as is needed for identification, current inventory and records of disbursements, plus other data to establish the ownership, quantity, disposition, or disposal. The record, after the seed lot is conditioned, shall reflect the quantity of clean seed, dockage, and screenings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A grower's declaration giving the quantity, kind, variety, origin, and year of harvest for each lot of seed which is not readily distinguishable by examination. A grower's declaration shall reflect the name, address, and signature of the grower.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>A representative seed sample of at least the amount of agricultural seed required for a noxious weed seed examination and at least 1,000 seeds of vegetable, flower, tree, and shrub seed. These seed samples shall be maintained for at least 1 year after the entire seed lot has been disposed of by this person.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Each jobber, central warehouse for chain store operations, or other handler obtaining seed lots for further distribution to retailers, shall maintain complete records on each seed lot for 2 years after each seed lot is distributed and disposed of. The records shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Source of each seed lot;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Quantity of each seed lot received;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Number of shipments and date of each shipment received;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Size and type of containers (Example: 5-pound box);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Invoices and shipping documents pertaining to each shipment of seed received;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Quantities of each seed lot distributed to each retail branch or consumer store;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Name and address of each store receiving;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Date shipped to each store;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Means of shipment, including type and name of carrier; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Other records necessary to provide current inventory identification and disposition of each seed lot.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Stop-Sale Order."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A written stop-sale order may be issued on any seed lot found to be in violation of the Maryland Seed Law or the regulations in this chapter. Seed under a written stop-sale order may not be moved from the stop-sale point until released by the Department. Seed lots released for transportation shall remain under stop-sale upon arrival at the warehouse or conditioning plant until appropriate laboratory tests can be completed enabling appropriate relabeling, supervised destruction, or until conditioning can be accomplished.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Stop-Sale Label. A small prepacked container of vegetable seed, lawn and turf seed, flower seed, or tree and shrub seed in violation may be labeled with pressure-sensitive gum labels instead of a written stop-sale order. Each container with a stop-sale label shall be removed from the sales floor and disposed of by the owner, store operator, or, subject to approval of the Department, returned to the wholesale supplier.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Hearing. The owner or custodian of a seed lot receiving a stop-sale order may request a hearing with the Department, provided the request is forwarded to the Department within 10 days of the date the stop-sale order was placed on the seed lot. The other provisions of this section remain in effect during the hearing process.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Seed Testing; Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Seed groups tested include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Group I—Small grains and legumes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Austrian winter pea,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Buckwheat,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Corn,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Cowpea,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Crownvetch,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Field Pea,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Flat Pea,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Hairy Vetch,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Lespedeza,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Millet,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Panicgrass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(l)"> <text>Rape,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(m)"> <text>Reed Canary grass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(n)"> <text>Small grain (wheat, barley, rye, and oat),</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(o)"> <text>Small seeded legume (clover, alfalfa, and trefoil),</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(p)"> <text>Sorghum,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(q)"> <text>Sudangrass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(r)"> <text>Sunflower,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(s)"> <text>Switchgrass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(t)"> <text>Timothy,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(u)"> <text>Tobacco,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Vegetables;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Group II—Soybeans;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Group III—Grasses other than those in Group I:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Bermudagrass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Bentgrass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Bluegrasses,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Brome,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Fescues,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Lovegrass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Orchardgrass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Redtop,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Rescue grass,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Ryegrasses,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Zoysia;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Group IV—Tree and shrub seed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Group V— Flowers and herbs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Group VI— Reclamation and wetlands species not listed above such as smartweed, rice cut grass, boneset, etc.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Group VII—Mixtures of Groups I and II kinds (per component); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Group VIII—Mixtures of all other kinds (per component).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Fees for Seed Testing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Additional Fees for Testing.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If mixture components are not listed, a complete purity and noxious test will be performed at the rates indicated in §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An additional $10 shall be charged for germination tests conducted in sand-soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Uncleaned or excessively chaffy or dirty samples and other seed tests not listed shall be charged for on the basis of the actual time required to make tests at the rate of $40 per hour.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Miscellaneous fees, which are as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Tetrazolium test for quick indication of viability, which includes a priority fee—$50;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Cold tests—soybeans, lima beans, garden beans, corn, and others—$15;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Accelerated aging test—$15;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Laboratory treatment with fungicide—$10;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Seed count (conditioned samples only)—$10;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Endophyte testing (tall fescue and perennial ryegrass) $25 seed test, $35 seedling test;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Round-up tolerance test—$20; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Priority testing, which is available as the workload allows, but shall be started not later than the next business day—$25.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>All seed samples treated with any fungicide or other material may not be tested unless the name of the substance is plainly marked on the container.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Minimum Germination Standards."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Vegetable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Flower.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Agricultural and Lawn and Turf Seeds.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Assessment of Civil Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For purposes of this regulation, the term “order of the Secretary” means an order that the Secretary has issued pursuant to the Maryland Seed Law, including a “stop sale” order.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the Secretary determines that a person has violated an order of the Secretary, the Secretary may impose a civil penalty for each seed lot in violation of the order, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For the first violation, not more than $100;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For a second violation within a 2-year period, not more than $250; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For a third or subsequent violation within a 2-year period, not more than $500.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In assessing a civil penalty imposed under §B of this regulation, the Secretary shall consider:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation and the extent to which the violator exercised reasonable care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The total number of seed lots found in violation at that location;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The number of packages contained in each lot; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The extent to which the current violation is a part of recurrent violations of the Maryland Seed Law committed by the violator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person may appeal under Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Secretary's decision to impose a civil penalty.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Unless a stay has been granted, a person against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this regulation shall pay the amount of the penalty promptly to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§9-201, 9-202, and 9-214, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 1, 1966</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.09 repealed and new Regulations .01—.12 adopted effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective September 26, 1994 (21:19 Md. R. 1635)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02-1 adopted effective January 22, 2001 (28:1 Md. R. 27)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02-1 amended as an emergency provision effective July 1, 2002 (29:16 Md. R. 1285); amended permanently effective September 30, 2002 (29:19 Md. R. 1526)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective June 10, 1991 (18:11 Md. R. 1189); August 29, 1994 (21:17 Md. R. 1440); May 8, 1995 (22:9 Md. R. 647); June 17, 1996 (23:12 Md. R. 873); February 23, 1998 (25:4 Md. R. 245); November 2, 1998 (25:22 Md. R. 1653); January 22, 2001 (28:1 Md. R. 27)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A amended effective January 22, 1990 (17:1 Md. R. 72); September 26, 1994 (21:19 Md. R. 1635)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B, C amended effective September 26, 1994 (21:19 Md. R. 1635)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06B amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1661); September 26, 1994 (21:19 Md. R. 1635)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06D, G amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1661)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06H adopted effective March 4, 1991 (18:4 Md. R. 450)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06H amended effective September 26, 1994 (21:19 Md. R. 1635)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07A, C amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1661)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09A amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1661)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective July 1, 1991 (18:12 Md. R. 1340); June 17, 1996 (23:12 Md. R. 873)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended as an emergency provision effective July 1, 2002 (29:16 Md. R. 1285); amended permanently effective September 30, 2002 (29:19 Md. R. 1526)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12A, B amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1661)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12B amended effective January 22, 2001 (28:1 Md. R. 27)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13 adopted effective June 17, 1996 (23:12 Md. R. 873)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Maryland Turf Grass Law"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Labeling."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Label Required; Contents. Every lot of severed turf grass sod, plugs, and sprigs, as defined under this subtitle, which is sold, exposed for sale, installed, transported, or advertised within the State for planting purposes by a dealer shall be accompanied by or have attached to the bill of lading, bill of sale, sales slip, or invoice a label containing the following information plainly written or printed in the English language:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The recognized common names;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The variety of each component;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The texture, origin, and net measure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The presence of restricted noxious weeds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The name and address of the dealer who labeled the lot;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>If the kind or mixture is not known, this fact shall be stated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Date of labeling.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Each container of plugs or sprigs sold or offered for sale shall bear a label containing the information required in §A of this regulation except that the date of labeling shall be optional.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A bill of lading, delivery ticket, or invoice containing the specified information may be considered a label. However, sod lots offered or exposed for sale at retail sites (stores, garden centers, trucks, etc.,) for purchases directly by consumers shall be accompanied by a label in full view of the purchaser. Individual pieces sold at retail from a lot otherwise meeting the labeling requirements need not be further identified.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>All required labeling information shall be presented in a single labeling block.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>References to kinds and varieties shall be complete and correct, that is, Pennlawn red fescue, Meyer zoysia, Nassau Kentucky bluegrass. Names such as bonanza fescue and fine fescue are not permitted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Sod consisting of more than one kind or variety, or both, when present in excess of 10 percent of the total plant population shall be labeled as a mixture. Percentages of kinds or varieties, or both, shall be based on plant populations. Mixtures may be labeled as to kind without reflecting variety.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Any kind or variety listed on the label or claimed in a mixture shall be present to the extent of 10 percent exclusive of any tolerance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>If the label reflects one kind or variety in a mixture, then all other kinds and varieties in the mixture shall also appear on the label.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>The dealer may, at his option, claim percentage composition of the lot with respect to kinds and varieties.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Inaccurate labels may result in a stop sale order or in prosecution under the law, or both.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Sod shall be sold either by the square foot or square yard except that under appropriate circumstances when sod is sold by contract to be installed, truckload lots proceeding directly to one or more installation sites may be labeled partial shipment in lieu of a more precise net measure.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Kinds of Fine and Coarse Textured Turf grasses."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following species are designated as fine textured turf grasses:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Colonial bent grass—agrostis capillaris.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Creeping bent grass—agrostis stolonifera var. palustris.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Bermuda grass—cynodon dactylon var. dactylon (only improved varieties intended for turf use).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Canada bluegrass—poa compressa.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Kentucky bluegrass—Poa pratensis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Rough bluegrass—Poa trivialis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Red fescue—festuca rubra subsp. rubra.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Chewings fescue—festuca rubra var. commutata.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Hard fescue—festuca longifolia.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Tall fescue (turf-type)—festuca arundinacea.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Zoysia—Zoysia spp.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Perennial ryegrass (turf-type)—lolium perenne.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The following species are designated coarse textured turf grasses:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Tall fescue (other than turf-type)—festuca arundinacea.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Redtop—agrostis gigantea.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Annual or Italian ryegrass—lolium multiflorum.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Perennial ryegrass (other than turf-type)—lolium perenne.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Weeds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All plants, other than those listed above, shall be considered weeds. Any single weed species present to the extent of 10 percent of the total plant population shall be declared on the label by name and percentage under the heading “weeds”. When the total weed population exceeds 10 percent but no one species is present to the extent of 10 percent or more, an entry of “weeds” followed by the percentage will be shown.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Prohibited Noxious Weeds. Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) and poison ivy or poison oak (Rhus spp.) are declared to be prohibited noxious weeds and sod containing these species will not be permitted for sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Restricted Noxious Weeds. The following plants are declared to be restricted noxious weeds:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Bermuda grass (other than improved varieties intended for turf use)—cynodon dactylon var. dactylon.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Giant Bermuda grass—cynodon dactylon var. aridus.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Quack grass—elytrigia repens.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Nutsedge—cyperus spp.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Orchard grass—dactylis glomerata.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Nimble will—mulhenbergia schreberi.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Annual bluegrass—poa annua.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Crabgrass—digitaria spp.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Goose grass—eleusine indica.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Foxtail—setaria spp.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The following kinds, when present and not listed as a component, shall be considered restricted noxious weeds and so labeled:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Tall fescue—festuca arundinacea.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Bent grass—agrostis spp.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Sod containing restricted noxious weeds shall bear the following statement: Contains the following restricted noxious weeds: ________, _____________, ______________, ____________, ___________.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Any lot containing restricted noxious weeds, either individually or collectively exceeding 20 percent of the total plant population by plant count, shall be prohibited from sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>When coarse kinds are present in a mixture in excess of 10 percent, the mixture shall be labeled coarse textured.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Method of Sampling."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Inspection shall be limited to 10 percent of each lot or 10 severed units whether rolled, folded, or flat, whichever is the lesser number, provided a minimum of two units are sampled. A representative sample shall be considered a portion 3 inches long by the width of a rolled, folded, or flat section.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Plugs. Inspection shall be limited to 10 percent of each lot or 10 plugs, whichever is the lesser number, provided a minimum of two plugs are sampled.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Sprigs. A representative sample shall be considered a one quart measure from lots sold in bulk taken randomly from the container or bulk. If sprigs are sold in small containers, one unopened container may constitute a sample.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Method of Testing."> <text>Each portion of the official sample will be examined and plant counts made to determine the average plant population of the sample.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Method of Tolerance."> <text>A tolerance of 5 percent of the total plant population will be applied to all declarations of weeds. When declarations of percentages of kinds or varieties, or both, of turf grasses are made, a tolerance of 10 percent of the total plant population will be applied.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Net Measure or Count or Size."> <text>All net measure, count, or size shall be consistent with the requirements of the Weights and Measures Law and Regulations.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Advertising."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Advertising may not contain words or phrases implying results or quality conditions not common to the kinds or varieties offered for sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Brand names, designs, or pictorial representations that indicate a condition, result, or quality not common to the kinds or varieties declared on the label will not be permitted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>References to kinds and varieties shall be complete and correct, that is, Pennlawn red fescue, Meyer zoysia, Nassau Kentucky bluegrass. Names such as bonanza fescue and fine fescue are not permitted.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Records, adequate to substantiate all labeling and advertising claims, shall be maintained for a period of 6 months after lifting. These records might include kind and variety of seed sown, location of field, date of seeding, date of lifting, and amount delivered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In instances where the dealer is not the grower or producer, a signed growers declaration giving the required information shall be obtained and retained by the dealer for a period of 6 months.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103, 9-102, and 9-103, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March, 1970</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02E amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 671)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 671)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04C amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 671)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 671)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09C amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 671)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Appendix A repealed effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 671)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Seed Certification"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of seed certification is to provide a system for maintaining, from the time seed is released by the breeder until it is available to the producer, the genetic purity of seed varieties resulting from natural selection or plant breeding. Maryland shall certify seed for varietal and mechanical purity and germination. The following certification regulations apply to all crops eligible for certification, and include specific regulations for certain crops.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Breeder seed” means a class of seed directly controlled by the originating or sponsoring plant breeding institution, person, or designee. Breeder seed is the source for the production of seed of all other classes of certified seed. In varietal purity, Breeder seed shall be equal to, or higher than, Foundation seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Certified seed” means a class of seed that is the progeny of Breeder, Foundation, or Registered seed handled to maintain the standards of that class. Certified seed may not be used to produce Certified seed, except as provided in Regulation .04 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Certifying agency” or “agency” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Classes of certified seed” means Breeder seed, Foundation seed, Registered seed, and Certified seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Conditioning” means the cleaning of seed to remove inert matter, diseased seed, or other crop and weed seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Foundation seed” means a class of seed that is the progeny of Breeder or Foundation seed and handled to maintain the standards of that class. Foundation seed may be used to produce Registered or Certified seed (see Regulation .14 of this chapter).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Kind” means one or more related species or subspecies which singly or collectively is known by one common name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Official sample” means a sample taken by a representative of the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Off-type” means plants or seeds that do not conform to one or more characteristics of a variety.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Registered seed” means a class of seed that is the progeny of Breeder or Foundation seed and handled to maintain the standards of that class. Registered seed may be used for the production of Certified seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Variety” means a subdivision of a kind characterized by growth, plant, fruit, seed, or any other character by which it can be differentiated from any other plant of the same kind.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility Requirements for Certification of Varieties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A variety that is approved by any of the following organizations is eligible for certification:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>National Variety Review Board. A part of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies that is responsible for determining that a variety merits certification by evaluating information furnished by the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Plant Variety Protection Office. A bureau within the U.S. Department of Agriculture that encourages the development of novel varieties of sexually reproduced plants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Official Seed Certifying Agency. The agency responsible for directing seed certification activities within a state.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A variety determined by the Secretary to be eligible.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before a variety is eligible for certification by the agency, the breeder, owner, or other person shall provide the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name of variety;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A statement concerning origin of the variety and breeding procedures used in its development;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A description of the variety;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Disease and insect resistance, yield data, and any other data that may support its identity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The area of adaptation of the variety;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The procedure for maintenance of seed classes, including the number of generations through which the variety may be multiplied;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A description of the manner in which the variety is constituted when a particular cycle or reproduction or multiplication is specified;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Additional restrictions on the variety, specified by the breeder, with respect to geographic area of seed production, age of stand (growing crop), or other factors affecting genetic purity; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>A seed sample representative of the variety, as marketed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Limited Generation System."> <text>A variety may be multiplied only as specified by the originating breeder or owner of the variety, but may not exceed two generations beyond the Foundation seed class, with the following exceptions:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Recertification of Certified seed may be permitted at the discretion of the certifying agency for varieties when Foundation seed does not exist.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In an emergency, a person may produce, if approved by the certifying agency before planting, an additional generation of Certified seed. An emergency exists when Foundation and Registered seed supplies are not available or are not adequate to plant the needed Certified acreage of a variety.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Permission to recertify the Certified class shall be requested in sufficient time to allow the certifying agency to obtain permission from the originating or sponsoring plant breeder, institution, firm, or owner of the variety. Any additional generation of Certified seed beyond that permitted by this regulation to meet an emergency need is ineligible for recertification.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Source of Seed."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Only a field planted with Breeder, Foundation, Registered, or Certified seed is eligible for certification. A certified tag and an analysis tag from each lot planted, and an invoice showing the amount of seed purchased, shall be submitted with the field inspection application. Each field shall be identified by variety and lot number of the seed source used to plant it.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the seed source is from the applicant's own production, the seed shall meet all requirements of this chapter for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>On approval of the certifying agency, a seed lot rejected for non-genetic reasons may be used by the applicant for production of Certified seed, provided all remaining certification requirements are met.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Field Inspection Application."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each applicant shall provide the certifying agency with a completed application form. This form is available from the agency. A separate application shall be submitted for each variety and crop. Incomplete applications shall be rejected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The applicant shall define clearly the area or units of certification. It may be divided, subject to the requirements of this chapter, for each crop. Each field bounded by a fence or a road is considered a separate unit for identification purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Due dates include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Inspection applications shall be received by the certifying agency not later than the following dates (see Regulation .14 of this chapter):</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For barley, oat, rye and wheat—April 15;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For corn—June 1;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For red clover—July 15; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>For soybeans—September 1;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Late applications will be accepted at the discretion of the certifying agency (see Regulation .19 of this chapter for late fees);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An applicant may withdraw an inspection application on any field and receive an adjustment of fees by the agency, provided the withdrawal notice is received before the field is inspected by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The applicant shall indicate by diagram the location of the field or fields to be inspected. A road, farm lane, building, or other crop near a seed field shall be shown on the diagram. Each field shall be identified by a farm name or field number and shall correspond with the information provided on the inspection application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An applicant shall sign the application for inspection and certify the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That the information submitted for verification of seed eligibility is representative of the total amount of seed used and that the seed verified was planted on the field described on the application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That all equipment involved with planting, harvesting, storing, conditioning, and handling of the seed was cleaned thoroughly before use; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>That the identity of the seed will be maintained, from harvest until it leaves the applicant's possession, through use of a numerical system, or some other identification system acceptable to the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Field Inspection Procedures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The certifying agency shall make at least one inspection of each field at a time when genetic purity can best be determined. The field shall be in a condition that permits an inspection to determine genetic purity (see certification requirements for each crop as provided by this chapter).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If a representative of the certifying agency has not inspected the field within 72 hours of anticipated harvest, the grower shall notify the certifying agency by telephone and request inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The certifying agency shall notify the applicant within 72 hours of the date a small grain field for certification is to be inspected. The applicant shall then advise the agency whether or not any pesticide has been or will be applied to the field within 48 hours of the date the field is to be inspected. The applicant shall declare the name of the pesticide that has been or will be applied. An inspection may not be conducted until notification has been received from the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A crop may not be harvested until the applicant has a copy of the field inspection report to verify that the field has been inspected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A field harvested before inspection by the certifying agency is not eligible for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Before inspection, the applicant should rogue each field for off-types, other crops, and weeds that otherwise would cause a field to be rejected for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Each field shall meet the land requirements for the crop being certified (see certification requirements for each crop as provided by this chapter).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>A field that fails to meet certification standards for varietal purity, other crops, or certain weeds may be rogued and the applicant may request a reinspection. A field shall be reinspected after it is rogued of weeds or other crops, but before the field is harvested. The agency shall charge the applicant a reinspection fee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Handling Certified Seed."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Planting, harvesting, storing, and conditioning equipment, including custom equipment, used in the production of Certified seed shall be cleaned thoroughly to prevent contamination. Equipment used in the production of Certified seed classes may be inspected by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If Registered and Certified seed of the same variety are stored together, the seed lot shall be tagged as Certified only.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person providing conditioning for any class of Certified seed shall comply with the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Facilities shall be adequate to condition seed lots without contamination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each seed lot shall remain identified at all times;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Records of all conditioning operations relating to certification shall account for all incoming seed and its final disposition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Each person shall maintain adequate records on the conditioning of all classes of Certified seed and shall permit inspection by the certifying agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Each conditioning business shall designate a contact person who is knowledgeable about the conditioning business; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A person conditioning Maryland Certified seed shall have the facilities inspected and approved by the certifying agency before conditioning begins.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Bagging.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All classes of Certified seed shall be put into new bags or containers, unless the certifying agency approves previously used bags or other containers before the bagging of the seed lot.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Bags or containers shall be securely closed by machine sewing, or other methods approved by the agency, to prevent contamination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Bags containing seed that fails to meet certification requirements may not display statements implying certification when the seed is offered or exposed for sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The seed owner shall notify the certifying agency before opening a bag for the purpose of treating or reconditioning a seed lot.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>On each bag of Certified seed, the kind, variety, and lot number shall be marked in a conspicuous place, or each bag shall be marked in a manner approved by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Seed Sampling."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Bin Sample. Seed for certification that has not been conditioned may be submitted by the applicant. Unconditioned samples shall be hand-screened before being submitted for a laboratory analysis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Official Sample. The certifying agency shall collect for laboratory analysis a sample from each lot eligible for certification, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Bagged Seed. The seed lot shall be conditioned and bagged before the applicant requests that an official sample be collected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Bulk Seed. The seed lot shall be conditioned and stored by the applicant as stated in Regulation .13 of this chapter before an official sample is collected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Seed shall be stored by the applicant so that a representative sample may be taken and an accurate bag count made.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A seed lot that has not been protected from contamination, or is not properly identified, shall be rejected for certification by the agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Instead of the procedure specified under §B of this regulation, the applicant may submit a sample of the lot obtained by an automatic sampling device which has been approved by the agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Bulk Seed That is Bagged. At the discretion of the certifying agency, bulk Certified seed that is bagged at a later date may be sampled by the agency for a laboratory analysis before the issuance of certification tags.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Resampling.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>One additional sample of a seed lot may be taken by the agency to assist in making a final determination as to the eligibility of a seed lot for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The certifying agency may resample any lot of seed after certification tags have been issued to ensure the quality of the seed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Sampling Carryover Seed. Seed carried over from one planting season to the next shall be retested for germination rate and shall be labeled with the current germination rate and date of the test. The owner is responsible for requesting the certifying agency to resample any carryover Maryland Certified seed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Seed Labeling."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following colors of Certified seed tags or labels are used by the agency to identify classes of Certified seed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Breeder—white;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Foundation—white;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Registered—purple; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Certified—blue.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Seed advertised for sale or sold as a class of Maryland Certified seed shall have an official Maryland Certified seed tag securely affixed to each bag, before shipment, identifying the kind and variety, lot number, and grower number. For bulk Certified seed, see Regulation .13 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An applicant may not ship a seed lot as certified to a person unless the applicant has an agency seed analysis report approving the seed lot for certification, and certified tags or labels are affixed to each container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Seed shipped without a certification tag affixed to each container is not certified and is not eligible for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An applicant may not mail certification tags to a buyer or to any other person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The following tagging methods are available:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>One Tag. This tag carries the complete analysis of the seed lot and also serves as the certification tag.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Two Tags. A certification tag shall show the kind and variety, lot number, and grower number. An analysis tag showing purity analysis and germination rate, as required by the Maryland Seed Law, Agriculture Article, §9-207, Annotated Code of Maryland, shall accompany the certification tag. The analysis information may be printed on a tag furnished by the applicant or by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The applicant shall submit to the agency a request for certification tags or labels on a form provided by the agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The applicant may request the agency to issue certification tags or labels before the seed is conditioned. The applicant shall affix these tags or labels at the time the seed is conditioned and bagged. The applicant may not remove seed labeled in this manner from the applicant's premises until the agency has tested and released the seed. The seed shall meet or exceed the labeled claims for which no tolerance is allowed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>The applicant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Label seed sold in mini-bulk and similar containers in a manner acceptable to the agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Affix the labels in:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A conspicuous location; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Such a manner that the labels cannot be accidentally removed during transportation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Substandard Certified Seed."> <text>The certifying agency may, at its discretion, certify seed which fails to meet certification standards for reasons other than genetic purity. The certification tag or label shall identify the seed as “substandard seed” and shall indicate the reason for which the seed lot failed to meet certification standards. The agency shall only certify varieties protected under Title V of the Federal Seed Act as “substandard seed”. The agency may approve small grain seed as “substandard seed for germination” if the percent germination is within 5 percentage points of the minimum certified germination for that kind. The agency may not certify soybean seed as “substandard seed for germination”.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Seed-Borne Diseases."> <text>At the time of inspection by the agency, each field containing a crop for which certification is requested may not contain seed-borne diseases in excess of the established tolerances, as provided in this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Bulk Certification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Field and seed certification requirements of this chapter that apply to bagged seed shall apply also to bulk seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Under the certification program, only the Certified seed class may be sold as bulk. Recertification of bulk seed is not permitted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Small grains or soybeans are eligible for bulk certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Storage of bulk Certified seed is limited to bins or containers that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Have openings at the top for loading purposes; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Can be securely sealed by the agency so that additional seed may not be added.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Bulk sale certificates are issued to each applicant handling bulk seed. A bulk sale certificate shall accompany each load of Certified seed sold in bulk. Seed sold without a bulk sale certificate loses its identity as Certified seed. A copy of each bulk sale certificate shall be forwarded to the certifying agency by December 31 of each year for small grains and by July 31 of each year for soybeans.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A bulk sale may be made only by the applicant to the consumer. Further bulk certification transfer is not permitted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>It is the seller's responsibility to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Handle the seed in a manner that will prevent mixtures and contamination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Ensure that a bin, auger, conveyor, and other equipment is cleaned before storage or handling of Certified seed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Determine that the vehicle receiving bulk Certified seed is clean before loading begins. If it is not, this is to be noted on the transfer certificate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Bulk seed eligible for certification shall be clearly identified by the applicant at all times. The following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Before certification is complete, the applicant shall affix a tag in a conspicuous place near each bulk storage area. This label is used to identify the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Variety and kind;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Lot number or bin number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Grower number or origin; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Approximate number of bushels of seed eligible for certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>After certification is complete, a certification tag indicating Certified seed status shall be attached to each bin or bulk storage area. The kind and variety, lot number or bin number, grower number or origin, number of bushels, purity analysis, germination rate and test date shall appear on a blue tag.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Each bin or bulk storage area is a separate lot.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An applicant may not transfer seed to any other bin without prior approval of the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13-1" heading="Transfer of Unconditioned Bulk Seed."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A bulk seed lot that has been approved by the agency for certification at the field inspection level may be transferred by the owner in bulk only to an agency-approved conditioner for conditioning and for final agency certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A seed owner shall provide the conditioner with a copy of the agency field inspection report for each seed lot.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Unless the agency gives prior approval, only one transfer is allowed for unconditioned bulk seed approved by the agency at the field inspection level.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Foundation Seed Production."> <text>Foundation seed production shall meet the following criteria, in addition to those requirements established for each crop (see specific crop regulations provided by this chapter):</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Breeder seed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>May be used to produce Foundation seed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Shall be produced at Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station farms, unless prior approval has been granted by the certifying agency to produce this seed elsewhere.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>At the agency's discretion, and if approved before planting, Foundation seed may be eligible for Foundation seed production.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For a grower to be eligible to produce Foundation seed, the grower shall be approved by the certifying agency before seed is planted. A grower shall have the following qualifications:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The grower shall have produced Registered or Certified seed in past years;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The grower shall be producing Registered or Certified seed of the same variety, unless prior written approval has been granted by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Applications for Foundation seed production of small grains shall be received by April 1. The agency shall make several inspections of the crop during the growing season.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Applications for Foundation seed production of soybeans shall be received by July 15. The agency shall make several inspections of the crop during the growing season and at maturity. For soybeans, at least one inspection during the growing season shall be made for flower color.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Before conditioning Foundation seed, the conditioning facility shall be inspected and be approved by the certifying agency (see Regulation .08C of this chapter).</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Interagency Certification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The requirements of this chapter apply when the certifying agency participates with an out-of-State agency in the seed certification process.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The certifying agency may reject any seed lot for out-of-State interagency certification that fails the standards as described in this chapter, including standards relating to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Rodent damage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Insect damage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Moisture damage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Excessive disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Weed content;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Other crop contaminants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Inert matter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Any other factor that affects the performance or quality of certified seed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Seed eligible for interagency certification shall be received by any person in containers carrying official certification labels, or carrying other evidence of its eligibility from an official out-of-State seed certifying agency, with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Variety and kind;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Quantity of seed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Class of seed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Lot number that corresponds to the previous certifying agency's record; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Name and address of shipper.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Tags issued by the certifying agency for interagency certification shall be serially numbered, or carry the certification identity number, and shall display clearly the certifying agencies involved, and the variety, kind, and class of seed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Complying with Federal and State Seed Laws."> <text>The applicant for certification shall maintain seed lot records and comply with all other requirements of federal and Maryland seed laws. When shipping seed interstate, it is the applicant's (shipper's) responsibility to know the receiving or destination state's seed laws. Information concerning federal or out-of-State seed laws is available from the certifying agency.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Violations."> <text>The Secretary may refuse to certify the seed of an applicant who violates any provision of this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Certification Requirements for Specific Crops."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Soybean Seed Certification. In addition to the other requirements of this chapter, the following requirements apply to the certification of soybean seed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Varieties Per Grower. Not more than two varieties may be produced by each grower, unless permission is granted by the certifying agency. The two varieties grown shall differ in maturity class, pubescence color, or hilum color.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Land Requirements. Soybeans shall be grown on land where the previous crop was not soybeans unless the previous crop was:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Planted with a class of Certified seed of the same variety; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Soybeans of a contrasting pubescence and hilum color.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Isolation.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If a field of soybeans is to be certified, it shall be separated on all sides by at least 5 feet from any other soybean variety.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>When it is necessary to remove a strip of the crop to obtain plant isolation, the part removed shall be cut from the field that is to be inspected by the agency for certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Field Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A field inspection will be made by the certifying agency when plant leaves have dropped and the crop is approaching maturity. Also, a field inspection may be made at blossom time.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A field harvested before inspection is not eligible for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The agency may reject a field containing a crop that is lodged or if the field has excessive weeds so that it is difficult for the inspection to determine the genetic purity of the crop.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Field Inspection Standards for Soybeans.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Seed Standards.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Maximum Lot Size. The size of each lot of certified soybean seed is limited to 2,000 bushels or that quantity of seed, produced by an individual grower, that has been conditioned at the time an official sample is collected. A sample may be collected for each 2,000 bushels in the lot. If the seed is treated, the entire lot shall be treated with the same treatment or combination of treatments.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Before issuing new certification tags for seed carried over from the previous planting season, the Department shall perform an accelerated aging test and a warm germination test for each official sample. These tests shall be conducted after February 1. For each sample, the minimum germination shall be 80 percent and a minimum 75 percent germination following accelerated aging.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Small Grain Seed Certification. In addition to the other requirements of this chapter, the following requirements apply to the certification of small grain seed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Varieties Per Grower. Not more than two varieties may be produced by each grower, unless written permission is granted by the certifying agency before planting.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Land Requirements. If a small grain crop is to be certified, it may not be grown on land that produced a small grain crop the previous year, unless that previous crop was grown from a class of Certified seed of the same variety. Double-cropping or plowing between small grain crops does not change this requirement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Isolation Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If a field of barley or oat is to be certified, it shall be separated on all sides by at least 10 feet from other small grain crops or varieties.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If a field of rye is to be certified, it shall be isolated by at least 660 feet from a rye field of any other variety, or a field of the same variety that does not meet certification regulations in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If a field of wheat is to be certified, the field shall be separated by the applicant on all sides by at least 10 feet from other small grain crops or varieties, except when the other small grain crop is rye, in which case the field of wheat shall be separated on all sides by at least 660 feet.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>If it is necessary to remove a strip of the crop to obtain proper isolation, the part removed shall be cut from the field to be inspected for certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Field Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A field inspection shall be made by the certifying agency when the crop is fully headed and approaching maturity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A field harvested before inspection is not eligible for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The agency may reject a field that contains a crop that is lodged or has excessive weeds that makes it difficult to determine the genetic purity of the crop.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Field Inspection Standards for Barley, Oat, Rye, Wheat.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Seed Standards for Barley, Oat, Rye, Wheat.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Maximum Lot Size. The size of each lot of certified small grain seed is limited to 2,000 bushels or that quantity of seed, produced by an individual grower, that has been conditioned at the time an official sample is collected. A sample may be collected for each 2,000 bushels in the lot.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Corn Seed Certification—Hybrids, Foundation Single-Crosses and Inbred Lines. In addition to the other requirements of this chapter, the following requirements apply to corn seed certification:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Definitions.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Foundation single-cross” means a single-cross used in the production of a double-cross or a three-way cross. A Foundation single-cross, to be eligible for certification, shall be produced using inbred lines from sources such that their identity may be assured and approved by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Hybrid corn” means seed of corn planted for any use except seed production. It may be any one of the following types:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>“Single-cross” means the first generation hybrid between two inbred lines;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>“Double-cross” means the first generation hybrid between two single-crosses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>“Three-way cross” means the first generation hybrid between a single-cross and an inbred line.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>“Inbred line” means a relatively true-breeding strain resulting from at least five successive generations of controlled self-fertilization or of back-crossing to a recurrent parent with selection, or its equivalent, for specific characteristics. To be eligible for certification, the inbred line shall be from a source such that its identity may be assured and approved by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Classes of Seed.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Only the Certified class is recognized in hybrid corn. Hybrid corn shall be produced from seed that has been grown under conditions that ensure its purity and trueness to type and shall be approved by the certifying agency. Proof of the restoring ability of the line shall be supplied by the originator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A Foundation single-cross shall consist of the first generation hybrid between two inbred lines to be used in the production of the double or three-way cross. A Foundation single-cross shall be made from Foundation inbreds approved by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Land Requirements. There is no limitation as to the previous crop.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Field Standards.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Field Inspection. At least one inspection shall be made by the certifying agency during the pollination period.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Isolation—Foundation Single-Crosses and Inbred Lines.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>An increase field of an inbred line that is male sterile or fertile, or a production field of a specific Foundation single-cross involving either male sterile or fertile lines, shall be isolated by at least 600 feet from any other kind of corn, except isolation is not required for the production of hand-pollinated seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Adequate natural barriers and differential maturity dates are permitted for modifying isolation distance for both inbreds and single crosses, provided there are not silks in the seed field at the time pollen is being shed in the contaminating field.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Isolation—Hybrid Corn.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A specific hybrid to be accepted for certification shall be located so that the seed parent is at least 660 feet from other corn of a different color or texture. However, the distance may be modified by the planting of pollen parent border rows, the number of which is to be determined by the acreage of the specific cross in accordance with the following table:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Adequate natural barriers are permitted for modifying isolation distances, as approved by the certifying agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Differential maturity dates are permitted for modifying isolation distances, provided there are not receptive silks in the ear parent at the same time pollen is being shed in the contaminating field.</text> </paragraph> <aftertext>When the acreage of a crossing field of a specific hybrid is:</aftertext> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Specific Standards—Male Sterile Ear Parent. A male sterile ear parent may be used to produce Certified hybrid corn seed by either of the following two methods:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Seed of the normal fertile ear parent shall be mixed with the seed of the male sterile ear parent of the same pedigree either by blending in the field at harvest or by size at processing time. The ratio of male sterile ear parent seed to normal ear parent seed may not exceed 2:1.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The pollen parent shall involve a certified pollen-restoring line or lines so that not less than 1/3 of the plants grown from hybrid corn seed produce pollen which appears to be normal in quantity and viability.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Specific Standards—Detasseling or Pollen Control. The following requirements apply when 5 percent or more of the seed parent plants have receptive silks:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A hybrid shall be disqualified for certification if more than 1 percent of the seed parent stalks have shed pollen at the time of any one inspection or if the total for three inspections on different dates exceeds 2 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Sucker tassels, portions of tassels, or tassels on main plants shall be counted when 2 inches or more of the central stem, side branches, or a combination of the two, have the anthers extended from the glumes and are shedding pollen.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Other varieties and off-type plants in Foundation single-cross and inbred lines shall meet the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A field that contains, at any one inspection, more than 0.1 percent of off-type or more than 2 percent of doubtful type plants that have shed, or are shedding, pollen when 5 percent or more of the plants in the field have receptive silks may not be certified by the agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A plant shedding pollen in male sterile rows shall be destroyed at pollination time to eliminate the possibility of seed production.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Seed Standards.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Bin Inspection. For Foundation single-crosses and inbred lines the tolerance for other varieties or off-types is 0.1 percent or a total of 25 off-colored or different textured kernels per 1,000 ears.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Foundation and Hybrid Corn Seed Standards.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Table:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Seed shall be graded to ensure uniform planting and treated with a recommended fungicide.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Red Clover Seed Certification. In addition to the other requirements of this chapter, the following requirements apply to red clover seed certification:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Land Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For Foundation seed production, the land used shall have been free of red clover for the past 5 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For Certified seed production, the land used shall have been free of red clover for at least 3 years, except that this time may be shortened by 1 year if two cultivated crops or clean fallow intervened.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>There is no Registered class of seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Manure or contaminating material may not be applied 1 year preceding or during the establishment and production period of the crop. Grazing of livestock that permits the distribution of contaminating seed is not allowed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Field Standards.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The agency shall make at least one field inspection at blooming time each year that certification is requested.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Isolation Distance.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>As provided in the following table, each field for Foundation or Certified seed shall have a minimum isolation distance from a field of any other variety or from a field of the same variety that does not meet the varietal purity requirements for certification:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Isolation between classes of the same variety shall be 25 percent of the distances in §D(2)(b)(i), above.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Each field of red clover may produce only two seed crops in any given generation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Specific Standards.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Seed Standards.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Fees."> <text>Agency fees for field inspection and tagging of bagged and bulk seed are as follows:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Field Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Small grains, soybean, and red clover:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>$1.75 an acre;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>$25 minimum charge for each variety produced;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Hybrid corn — $3 an acre;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Other crops — Certification fees for other crops not listed above shall be based upon the actual costs of performing any necessary inspection work;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Reinspection fee — $25 for each variety.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Late fee — $20 for each variety plus travel costs, if any. For any application received after the due date for that crop, a grower shall pay a late fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Bulk certification fee — 14 cents for each unit of seed certified in bulk delivery, including minibulk and similar containers. A unit of barley shall weigh 48 pounds, a unit of wheat shall weigh 50 pounds, and a unit of soybeans shall weigh 60 pounds. The agency shall provide one tag or label for each container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Tag and label fees — For seed packaged in bags of 2 bushels or less, $2 per lot per printing plus 14 cents for each certified tag or 14 cents for each certified label issued to the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The certifying agency shall deliver certification tags and labels by the most efficient means as determined by the agency. Any charges for delivery of tags and labels shall be paid by the applicant.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §9-202, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 30, 1986 (13:13 Md. R. 1494)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective July 1, 1991 (18:10 Md. R. 1117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06C amended effective July 1, 1991 (18:10 Md. R. 1117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09F amended effective July 1, 1991 (18:10 Md. R. 1117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10F amended effective July 1, 1991 (18:10 Md. R. 1117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 amended effective July 1, 1991 (18:10 Md. R. 1117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 amended effective July 1, 1991 (18:10 Md. R. 1117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18A amended effective April 30, 1990 (17:8 Md. R. 977)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19A and D amended effective July 1, 1991 (18:10 Md. R. 1117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective September 25, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1473)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08B, D amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09C amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .15D amended as an emergency provision effective July 1, 2002 (29:15 Md. R. 1140); amended permanently effective September 30, 2002 (29:19 Md. R. 1526)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18A, B amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18B amended as an emergency provision effective July 1, 2002 (29:15 Md. R. 1140); amended permanently effective September 30, 2002 (29:19 Md. R. 1526)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19 amended effective January 21, 2013 (40:1 Md. R. 21)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19A, C—F amended as an emergency provision effective July 1, 2002 (29:15 Md. R. 1140); amended permanently effective September 30, 2002 (29:19 Md. R. 1526)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19D amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Turf Grass Certification"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of turf grass certification is to provide a system by which participants may supply high quality turf grass consisting of kinds and varieties that are well adapted to Maryland growing conditions. The Department shall certify turf grass for varietal and mechanical purity. The following certification regulations apply to all turf grass eligible for certification. There are also specific regulations for cultivated turf grass and vegetatively propagated turf grass.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Certified seed” means seed that is progeny of Breeder, Foundation, or Registered seed handled to maintain the standards of that class.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Certified turf grass” means a class of turf grass produced and handled in such a manner as to meet the standards of that class.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Cultivated turf grass” means turf grass which is reestablished from seed after each harvest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Field” means the entire area within a natural or man-made border, such as a road, fence, waterway, hedgerow, etc., that clearly defines the boundary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Foundation stock” means vegetative stock that is the progeny of Breeder stock or Foundation stock and handled to maintain the standards of that class.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Interagency certified seed mixture” means a mixture of kinds and varieties that have been mixed according to the regulations of the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Each mixture component shall be certified initially in its state of origin.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Kind” means one or more related species or subspecies which singly or collectively is known by one common name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Official sample” means a sample taken by a representative of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Participant” means the person applying to grow Maryland certified turf grass.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Turf grass” means grass sold as vegetative sod, plugs, or sprigs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Variety” means a subdivision of a kind characterized by growth, color, pest resistance, or any other character by which it can be differentiated from any other plant of the same kind.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Vegetatively propagated turf grass” means turf grass which normally is propagated from vegetative material and either does not produce seed or produces seed that is not viable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Applications to Participate in Program."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Field Eligibility Application.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To establish the eligibility of a field to be used for the initial production of certified turf grass, a participant shall submit a preplow inspection application to the Department at least 15 days in advance of preparation or tilling of the proposed field.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department may not approve the eligibility of a field unless all noxious weeds or persistent objectionable grasses are controlled.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For warm season turf grass, a field shall be free of another warm season variety or kind for a period of 3 years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Program Participation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>After the Department has approved a field’s eligibility to participate in the certification program, a participant shall submit to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An application, available from the Department, that has been completed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A map clearly establishing the location and identification of each field.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The application and map shall be submitted to the Department by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>August 1 for seeded turf grass planted from January 1 to June 30 of the current year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>February 1 for seeded turf grass planted from July 1 to December 31 of the previous year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>August 1 of each year for vegetative turf grass planted from January 1 to June 30 of the current year; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>February 1 for established fields of vegetative turf grass.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Late applications:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>May be accepted by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>May not be accepted later than November 1 if due August 1, or May 1 if due February 1.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Department shall consider the submission of an application as indicating the applicant’s intent to participate in the certification program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Source of Seed or Vegetative Stock."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Only a field planted with an acceptable source of seed or vegetative stock, as described in these regulations, is eligible for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The participant shall maintain for 2 years after harvest of the turf grass, evidence establishing the source of seed or vegetative stock, including such evidence as:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A certification tag;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An analysis tag; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A bill of lading or invoice.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The participant shall make available to the Department the evidence in §B on request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The participant shall maintain a record that shows the variety and lot number of the seed source or vegetative stock used to plant each field.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Management of Turf Grass."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The participant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Keep turf properly mowed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Control weeds in such a manner as not to allow distribution and spread of either weeds or their seed, or both;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Control injurious insects or diseases;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Produce the best quality turf possible under existing climatic and environmental conditions; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Maintain each field continuously in accordance with accepted turf grass management principles.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In a pure stand, the participant shall rogue other plant species before the Department makes its final pre-harvesting inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In mixtures, the participant shall rogue or spray with an effective herbicide all weeds and other objectionable plants before the Department makes its final pre-harvesting inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The participant shall treat a field with a history of annual grassy weeds with an effective pre-emergent herbicide at the proper time of year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may not certify turf grass unless it is uniform in density, color, and texture, and free of excessive amounts of thatch, insects, diseases, nematodes, and any other abnormal condition.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Production Field Inspection."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall make periodic inspections to detect the presence of other crop plants, weeds, insects, diseases, and to determine the approximate percentage of each turf grass species in the mixture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>At least 5 days in advance, the participant shall notify the Department of the participant's intention to harvest turf grass from a new field.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A field harvested before the Department is notified may not be eligible for certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A production field that has been rejected for certification may be subjected to a field eligibility inspection before its use for the production of certified turf grass.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Harvesting Certified Turf Grass."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Turf Sod.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The participant shall machine cut turf sod at a uniform soil thickness of 1/2 inch, plus or minus 1/4 inch. In measuring for soil thickness the participant shall exclude top growth and thatch.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The participant shall cut an individual unit of sod to a standard width and length with a maximum allowable deviation of 5 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A participant may not label turf sod as Certified:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If it contains a broken unit or a unit with torn or uneven ends;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Unless each standard size unit of sod is strong enough to support its own weight and retain its size and shape when suspended vertically from a firm hand grasp on the upper 10 percent of the unit.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The participant may not harvest turf sod when moisture content may adversely affect survival.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Sod shall be harvested and delivered within a period of 36 hours. Sod not delivered within this period shall be approved by the Department before installation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Sod harvested shall be less than 48 months old, from date of planting.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Sod shall contain not more than 3/8 inch of thatch.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Turf Plugs.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The participant may not harvest turf plugs when moisture content may adversely affect survival.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Turf plugs shall be harvested and delivered within a period of 36 hours, unless refrigerated. Plugs not delivered within this period shall be approved by the Department before their installation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Turf plugs shall contain not more than 3/8 inch of thatch.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Turf Sprigs.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The participant may not harvest turf sprigs when moisture content may adversely affect survival.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Turf sprigs shall be harvested and delivered within a period of 12 hours, unless refrigerated. Sprigs not delivered within this period shall be approved by the Department before installation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Issuance and Use of Certified Labels."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Turf grass complying with these regulations may be issued a Certified label.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The participant shall attach the Certified label to the invoice or delivery ticket accompanying each load or shipment. A participant may not provide a label after the turf grass has been delivered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A participant may not claim turf grass as Certified unless accompanied by a Certified label.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Certified turf grass labels will be valid for the following dates:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>May 1 through October 31; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>November 1 through April 30.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Complying with State Turf Grass Law."> <text>The participant shall maintain records and shall label in accordance with the Maryland Turf Grass Law, Agriculture Article, Title 9, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland, and this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Certification Regulations for Specific Types of Turf Grass."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Cultivated Turf Grass.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Requirements for Seed.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The participant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Use the seed of the Foundation, Registered, or Certified class, as determined by the state of origin and approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Use the seed cultivars and composition that are acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Use seed of a Maryland Interagency Certified Mixture. The participant may plant individual components, if each individual component has been sampled, tested, and approved by the Department before being planted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Handle the seed so as to maintain satisfactory genetic identity and purity, as required by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Minimum seed standards for cultivated turf grass production are as follows:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>In an emergency, and at the discretion of the Department, seed lots failing to meet the standards in §A of this regulation for other than genetic purity may be used for certified production only when the Department determines in writing that there exists a serious shortage of seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Minimum standards for kinds of seeds not listed in §A(1)(b) of this regulation shall be determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Certified Turf Grass shall be free of all grassy and broadleaf weeds, be relatively free of injurious insects, diseases, and nematodes, and show good esthetic appearance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Isolation.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The participant shall use a minimum of 10 feet between each field of a different kind or variety, or between fields of certified and noncertified sod, unless a natural barrier, such as a fence or ditch, is present.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Failure to provide minimum isolation shall result in field loss of not less than 5 feet past the last visible contamination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Vegetatively Propagated Turf Grass.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Eligibility Requirements for Establishment Stock.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The participant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Use Breeder or Foundation stock, inspected and approved by the state of origin, to meet the minimum varietal and mechanical purities of the specific class;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Use a single strain or variety acceptable to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Handle the stock so as to maintain satisfactory genetic identity and purity, as required by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Grow only one variety of a given species on a farm, unless written permission is obtained from the Department before planting;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Have all production of a specific variety on a farm inspected for certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Minimum stock standards for vegetatively propagated turf grass production are as follows:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For Foundation stock production (from Breeder stock), the participant shall use land that has been:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Free of any strain of vegetatively propagated grass for at least 3 years; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Treated with a fumigant acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Minimum standards for other kinds not listed in §B(1)(b) shall be designated by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>If the participant elects to backfill an area where soil was removed in harvesting operations, the participant shall use sterilized soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>For a field to maintain certification it must remain in the turf grass certification program continuously in accordance with Regulation .03A(3) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Certified turf grass shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Be free of grassy and broadleaf weeds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Be relatively free of injurious insects, disease, and nematodes; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Show good esthetic appearance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Isolation.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The participant shall use a minimum of 40 feet between each field of a different kind or variety, unless a natural barrier, such as a fence or ditch, is present. If this barrier exists, the participant may reduce the minimum distance to 20 feet.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Failure to provide minimum isolation shall result in field loss of not less than 10 feet past the last visible contamination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Field Eligibility Inspection. An applicant having new land inspected for eligibility shall be assessed by the Department at a rate of $1.50/acre, with a $50 minimum fee per inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Participation Application Fees.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall assess each applicant making application for fields seeded in the previous 6 months a one-time fee per acre per crop, in accordance with Regulation .03B(2)(a) and (b) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall assess each applicant making application for fields maintained in vegetatively propagated turfgrass a yearly fee per acre per crop.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Turf Grass Fees.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For seeded turf grass, the one-time application fee per acre per crop is $9.00 per acre.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For vegetative turf grass, the once-per-year application fee per acre per crop for all acreage planted or maintained is $6.00 per acre.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The minimum application fee is $50.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Late Fees. Applications and payments which are not received by the Department within 30 days past the due date shall be assessed a late fee of $100.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Overseeding Fees. Fields that have been overseeded within 6 months of the original seeding date as a result of natural disasters, such as drought, floods, or storms shall receive no additional charge provided:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The participant identifies which field was overseeded and notifies the Department in writing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The lot of seed used for the overseeding is identified and is comparable and compatible with that which was planted originally.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Violations."> <text>The Secretary may:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Refuse to certify the turf grass of a participant who violates any provision of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Revoke or suspend from the certification program a participant who violates any provision of this chapter. However, before a suspension or revocation from the certification program may occur, the Secretary shall give the participant written notice of the violation and an opportunity to be heard pursuant to COMAR 15.01.01.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§9-102, 9-103(3), and 9-202, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March 7, 1988 (15:5 Md. R. 623)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08B amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1729)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10A amended effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R. 1729)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11B amended effective August 16, 1993 (20:16 Md. R. 1279)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective April 29, 2002 (29:8 Md. R. 701)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05E amended effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07A amended effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10A, B amended effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12A amended effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Certified Seed Mixing"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of certified seed mixing is to provide a system for maintaining the genetic and mechanical purity of certified seed when combined in mixtures of kinds and varieties. Maryland will apply both varietal and mechanical standards to certified seed mixtures. The following regulations apply to all Maryland Interagency Certified Mixtures and include specific requirements for components. These regulations also apply to the interagency certification of single varieties of those kinds listed in Regulation .09A(2), of this chapter, when necessary to continue certification.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In these regulations, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Applicant” means a person who has requested the Department to collect samples, conduct tests, and supervise the mixing of different kinds of seed in order to have the seed mixture either certified as a “Maryland Interagency Certified Seed Mixture” or labeled as a “Supervised Mixture”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Batch sheet” means a form used by the Department to collect data verifying the eligibility of each component to be used in a specific mixture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Certified seed” means a class of seed that is the progeny of breeder, foundation, or registered seed handled to maintain the standards of that class.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Certified Seed Mixture” means different kinds or varieties of seed produced and labeled in accordance with the procedures of and in compliance with the regulations of an officially recognized seed certification agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Component” means a specific lot of a single variety that is to be used in the mixture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Kind” means one or more related species or subspecies which singularly or collectively is known by one common name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Lot” means a definite quantity of seed identified by a lot number or other mark, each portion or bag of which is uniform within recognized tolerance for the factor appearing in the labeling.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Maryland Interagency Certified Mixture” means different kinds or varieties of seed certified by the state of origin that have been:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Mixed under the Department's supervision; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Found by the Department to have met the specific minimum seed standards set forth in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Officially recognized” means recognized and designated by the laws or regulations of any state, the United States, any province of Canada, or the government of any foreign country whose certification standards are recognized by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Official sample” means a sample taken by a representative of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Supervised Mixture” means a seed mixture handled under the same procedures as a Maryland Interagency Certified Mixture except that one or more components is not Certified Seed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Variety” means a subdivision of a kind characterized by growth, plant, fruit, seed, or any other character by which it can be differentiated from any other plant of the same kind.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Sale of Certain Represented Seed Mixtures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may not sell, offer or expose for sale, or transport a mixture of different kinds of seed represented to be a certified seed mixture unless the seed mixture is produced and labeled in accordance with the procedures of and in compliance with the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Department's certification program set forth in this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Regulations of an officially recognized seed certification agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may not sell, offer or expose for sale, or transport a mixture of different kinds of seed represented to be a Supervised Mixture unless the seed mixture, except as otherwise provided in this chapter, is produced and labeled in accordance with the procedures of and in compliance with the Department's certification program.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Department's Certification Program."> <text>To participate in the Department's program, a person shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Request the Department to collect any necessary samples, conduct any necessary tests, and supervise the mixing of the different kinds of seeds that the applicant intends to mix;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Use mixing equipment (that is, mixer, hoppers, elevators, augers, etc.) whose areas that come into physical contact with the seed are accessible for cleaning by the applicant and for inspection by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Request the Department to inspect the mixing equipment and associated seed handling equipment to verify that it is suitable for certified seed mixing, with this inspection repeated after any equipment modifications; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Comply with Regulations .05—.10 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Sampling and Testing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Before Mixing. When mixing seeds, the applicant shall use only lots the Department has approved. Except as provided by §D of this regulation, the Department, before approving the lot for mixing purposes, shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Take an official sample of each component; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Test each component for purity, noxious weed, and germination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After Mixing. After the different components have been mixed under the Department's supervision, the applicant shall permit the Department to take an official sample of each mixture. The Department shall retain the official sample for 3 years during which time the applicant or the customer may request that the sample be tested for purity, noxious weed, and germination. The party requesting the test shall be billed for the cost of the test in accordance with the current schedule provided in COMAR 15.08.01.11.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Fee for Purity, Noxious Weed, and Germination Examinations. The applicant shall pay the Department a fee for conducting these tests, which fee shall be in accordance with the current schedule provided in COMAR 15.08.01.11.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Exception and Special Time Frame That Exist for Germination Test.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If more than 6 months have elapsed since a component was tested by the Department for germination, the applicant may not use that component in its intended seed mixture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the Department determines that time is critical, the Department may, instead of conducting a germination test on each component:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Perform a tetrazolium test;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Accept from another recognized state laboratory:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A tetrazolium test; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A germination test, if not more than 6 months have elapsed since the test was conducted.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Procedure for Requesting a Mixture."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An applicant requesting the Department to supervise the mixing of seeds shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Determine from current seed stocks and laboratory reports the lots of seed to be used in the mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Promptly notify the Department of the need for mixing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In making this request, the applicant shall provide the Department with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name of the mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Lot number assigned to the mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Quantity (pounds) of the total mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Net weight of each container of the mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Total number of containers of the mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Percentage of each individual component as it will appear on the analysis tag;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Percentage of other crop seed, inert matter, and weed seed as they will appear on the analysis tag;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Lot number of each individual component;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Department's test report number for each component lot;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Name and address of the customer, unless the mixture is for stock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Requested mixing date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>A statement indicating whether the applicant or the Department is to provide analysis tags; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Copies of seed test reports verifying information submitted under Regulation .05D(2)(b) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>After reviewing the applicant's request, the Department shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Review the test reports pertaining to the component seed lots to determine if the lots meet the minimum specifications; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Contact the applicant with the results of the review.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If all components meet the specifications, the Department and the applicant shall establish a mutually acceptable date and time to have a Department representative present at the mixing location to supervise the applicant's mixing process.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Mixing Procedure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Before the scheduled mixing time, the applicant shall ensure that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All mixing equipment (that is, mixer, hoppers, elevators, augers, etc.) is cleaned, free of all seed and foreign material, and opened for inspection by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The floor around the mixing area is cleaned and free of all seed and foreign material;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Sufficient quantities of new containers are marked with the lot number of the mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Sufficient quantities of properly completed analysis tags have been prepared, unless they are being supplied by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Each component container to be used:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is assembled in an area in close proximity to the mixing area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has not been opened, torn, or water marked;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has a certification tag attached if it is to be used in any mixture requiring certified seed;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Certification and analysis tags are not removed from any component container before approval by the Department representative; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Sufficient personnel are available to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Open the component containers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Load the components into the mixing equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Withdraw the completed mixture from the mixing equipment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Fill, seal, tag, and store the mixture containers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before mixing, the Department representative shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Inspect all mixing equipment, internally and externally, for cleanliness;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Inspect the mixing area for cleanliness;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Inspect the new containers to be used for the mixture to ensure the containers are appropriate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Inspect the analysis tags for completeness and accuracy; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Inspect and sample each component to ensure that the correct lots are present in the proper amounts and that all seed to be used in certified mixtures bears a certification tag.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>When appropriate, the Department representative shall permit the applicant to load the components into the mixer. The applicant may not open the containers or place anything into the mixing equipment until the inspection under §B of this regulation has been completed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Department representative may visually examine any container of seed before it is emptied into the mixing equipment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>After the appropriate amount of mixing time, the Department representative shall permit the bagging of the mixture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Department representative shall have the sole responsibility to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Draw a sample of the completed mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Determine if the mixer is to be cleaned before the next seed mixture is mixed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Tagging/Stenciling."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The applicant shall attach the Maryland certification tag or the Maryland supervised mixing tag, or both, to each seed mixture container. The applicant shall sew the tag onto each container with the closing stitch when the container is sewn.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>At the time of mixing, the applicant shall attach to each container the appropriate analysis tag. In the case of stock items, the applicant may present two sample analysis labels to the Department representative. The applicant shall ensure that each container, before it is shipped, bears an accurate analysis tag, in accordance with the Maryland Seed Law and regulations. Analysis information for supervised mixtures may be printed on the reverse side of the supervised mixture tag.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Specific Minimum Seed Standards."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following minimum seed standards apply to component seed lots to be used in Maryland Interagency Certified Seed Mixtures:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Seed Mixtures Used in the Production of Maryland Certified Turfgrass.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Unless the component meets the standards outlined in COMAR 15.08.04.10A(1)(b), the applicant may not use the component in mixtures intended for the production of Maryland certified turfgrass.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Department shall place the statement “This mixture is eligible for Maryland Certified Sod Production” on the mixture's certification tag if the mixture also meets the seed cultivar and composition requirements as provided in COMAR 15.08.04.10A(1)(a)(ii).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the mixture is intended for Maryland certified sod production, the applicant shall inform the Department of this so that the Department may apply the proper standards.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Components for All Other Mixtures. Unless the component complies with the standards outlined in the following chart, the applicant may not use it in a mixture the applicant intends to represent as a Maryland Interagency Certified Seed Mixture:</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Maryland State Highway Administration shall prescribe the minimum seed standards that apply to component seed lots to be used in supervised seed mixtures.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department, in an emergency, and after it has determined in writing that a serious shortage of seed exists, may allow the applicant to use seed lots that have failed for other than genetic reasons to meet the standards indicated in this regulation as interagency certified mixtures.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Except as provided in §B of this regulation, the applicant shall only use components that are certified seed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Failure of Applicant to be Prepared for Mixing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each applicant shall be prepared to begin seed mixing, as described in Regulation .07 of this chapter, at the agreed upon time and date.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may grant a 1-hour extension beyond the agreed upon time for the mixing to begin. If, at the end of 1 hour, the applicant is not satisfactorily prepared to start the mixing procedure, the Department may cancel the mixing. The applicant may contact the Department to reschedule the mixing. The Department shall charge the applicant $25 for each canceled mixing session.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For State mixing, the Department shall assess an applicant at the rate of 5 cents per pound of mixture, with a $25 minimum per mixture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For out-of-State mixing, the Department shall assess an applicant at the rate of 6 cents per pound for the mixing, with a $25 minimum per mixture, plus 50 cents per mile from Annapolis to the mixing site. The applicant shall be responsible for the cost of any overnight lodging.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For rebagging, relabeling, or retagging, the Department shall assess the applicant at the rate of 2 cents per pound, with a $20 minimum, and with any additional travel expense as described in §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For tags or labels used, the applicant shall be assessed at the following rate:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Certification tags and labels per rate found in COMAR 15.08.03.19D;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Supervised mix tags or labels = 14 cents per tag or label plus $2 per lot.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may assess the applicant at a rate of $12.50 per 1/2 hour, or any part of it, that the applicant does not mix seed after the agreed upon time.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Violations."> <text>The Secretary may revoke or suspend a participant from the program or refuse to certify the seed, or both of these, of any seed company who violates any provision of this chapter.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §9-202, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 4, 1989 (16:17 Md. R. 1886)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective October 7, 1996 (23:20 Md. R. 1425)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06B amended effective October 7, 1996 (23:20 Md. R. 1425)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08B amended effective October 7, 1996 (23:20 Md. R. 1425)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective August 30, 1993 (20:17 Md. R. 1351); October 7, 1996 (23:20 Md. R. 1425); February 12, 2007 (34:3 Md. R. 301)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11D amended effective January 21, 2013 (40:1 Md. R. 21)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="09" heading="Farm Sense—Agricultural Mediation Program"> <chapter num="01" heading="General Regulations"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter describes the policies and procedures for the Department's administration of the Farm Sense Agricultural Mediation Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This Program is intended to provide persons and government agencies with a voluntary and low-cost process for settling agriculturally related disputes.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Mediation” means a voluntary process under the Farm Sense Agricultural Mediation Program in which a mediator assists in the resolution of agriculturally related disputes involving persons, government agencies, or both, in a confidential and nonadversarial setting.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Mediation coordinator” means the individual or individuals responsible for the administration, reporting, and oversight of the Farm Sense Agricultural Mediation Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Mediator” means an impartial individual who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is trained to assist participants in finding mutually acceptable solutions to shared problems; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has no authority to impose a solution.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Producer” means a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Grows or produces food, fiber, planting material, or feed; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Breeds, stables, or raises livestock, equine, or ratites.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“USDA” means the United States Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Who May Apply."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>At least one of the parties participating in mediation shall be a:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Maryland agricultural producer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Creditor of a Maryland agricultural producer; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Person directly affected by the actions of the Department or the USDA.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>All requests for mediation shall be considered by the Department. Participants in mediation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Express an interest in developing a mutually agreeable and durable solution; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Have the authority to make decisions for themselves individually or for the organizations they represent.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Mediator Qualifications."> <text>To act as a mediator, a mediator shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Complete a 40-hour basic mediation training course;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Maintain mediator liability insurance; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Agree to comply with continuing training and evaluation requirements as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application and Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person interested in receiving mediation services shall submit a written request to the Department. This request shall contain the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name and contact information of the requesting party;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Contact information for other parties involved; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A brief description of the issues to be addressed during mediation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After initial consultation with all necessary parties, the mediation coordinator shall determine if the parties and issues for discussion are eligible for mediation. Factors the mediation coordinator shall consider include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The authority of each party to finalize an agreement, if a resolution is reached during the mediation process;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The existence of issues involving violence or likely to give rise to violence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A conflict of interest between the Department and any party;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other reason as determined by the mediation coordinator; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Whether the issues surrounding the request for mediation meet the criteria of 7 CFR §785.2 of the USDA's Certified Mediation Program guidelines.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Upon the mediation coordinator's determination that each party is eligible for mediation, a form shall be sent to each party. The form shall be completed and returned to the Department before mediation. If a party declines to participate in mediation, the mediation coordinator shall inform all other parties within 5 business days.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If all parties agree to mediation, the mediation coordinator shall arrange for an appropriate location, time, and mediator within 45 days of the mediation request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>All individuals present at the mediation, including the parties, the mediator, and any observers, shall sign an “Agreement to Begin Voluntary Mediation”. The mediation process may not begin if an individual present does not sign the agreement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The fee for each participant in a mediation session is $50. This fee shall be paid to the mediator at the beginning of a session. Additional fees may be required for multiple sessions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The mediation fee may be waived for good cause shown.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Conclusion of Mediation Session."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any agreement reached by all parties shall be voluntary. Any signed agreement is legally binding on all signatories to the extent that any signed agreement is contractually binding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the parties fail to reach an agreement, the mediator shall indicate this decision on a form. The form shall be signed by all parties.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Confidentiality."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Mediation shall be confidential pursuant to the terms of the Federal Dispute Resolution Act, 5 U.S.C. §574.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In addition to the exceptions in 5 U.S.C. §574, a mediator may disclose information conveyed during the mediation that indicates:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Intent to commit a crime;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Intent to inflict bodily harm on another; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A threat to the safety of a child.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Documents. Except for purposes of meeting reporting and evaluation requirements of the USDA Mediation Program, the Department shall maintain the confidentiality of all mediation records.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§1-1A-01—1-1A-04, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 23, 2003 (30:12 Md. R. 791)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="10" heading="Poultry Inspection" /> <subtitle num="11" heading="Animal Health"> <chapter num="01" heading="Health Requirements Governing Admission of Livestock and Poultry into Maryland"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>No animal, including poultry or bird of any species, which is affected with, or has recently been exposed to any infectious, parasitic, or transmissible disease, or animals originating in a herd or area under quarantine, or animals which do not meet the import requirements as set forth below, may be brought into Maryland without written permission for the importation from the Secretary. Application for this permission shall be made in writing by the person wishing to import the animals, at least 10 days before the anticipated movement. Issuance of all permits for importation will be at the discretion of the Secretary. All animals imported under special permits and all animals that do not meet the requirements of these regulations are subject to a period of quarantine, and are required to undergo, at the owner's risk and expense, such test or tests as the Secretary may prescribe.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Health Certificates."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Definition. An official certificate of health is a legible certificate made on an official form issued and approved by the chief animal health official of the state of origin, or the U.S. Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Preparation. Health certificates shall be prepared by veterinarians in the employ of the state of origin, by those in the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, by accredited veterinarians or licensed graduate veterinarians. The veterinarians shall be approved by the recognized animal health official of the state of origin.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>How Used. Livestock and poultry imported into Maryland shall be accompanied by an approved health certificate or permit, which shall be attached to the waybill or shall be in the possession of the driver of the vehicle or the person in charge of the livestock. A health certificate or permit will be void after 30 days.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Contents. The health certificate shall contain the name and address of the consignor and the consignee, with an accurate description or identification of the livestock. It shall give appropriate dates and descriptions, by name, of current disease tests specifically required, and shall give the health status of the herd of origin, when required. A copy of the approved certificate shall be forwarded to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Sanitation of Conveyances.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All trucks, railway cars, and other conveyances, used for the transportation of livestock and poultry, shall be maintained in a sanitary condition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The owners and operators of railway cars, trucks, and other conveyances, that have been used for intrastate or interstate movements of any livestock or poultry infected with, or exposed to, an infectious or transmissible disease, shall be required to have the cars, trucks, and other conveyances and crates, coops, and boxes thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, under official supervision. Proper notice of cleaning and disinfection or certification shall be attached to the waybill or be in the possession of the operator of the truck or other conveyances.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Cattle: Dairy, Breeding, and Feeder."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Tuberculosis Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Cattle, which originate directly or indirectly from herds where infection with Mycobacterium bovis (Bovine Tuberculosis) has been known to exist within the past 3 years, may not be imported into the State, except for immediate slaughter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Cattle for dairy and breeding purposes, feeder cows, heifers and bulls of beef breeds, including calves and cattle for exhibition purposes, may be imported into Maryland provided they meet the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Cattle originating directly from accredited tuberculosis free states—no tuberculosis test required;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Cattle originating from modified accredited tuberculosis free states:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Originating directly from accredited tuberculosis free herds—no tuberculosis test required,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Originating directly from herds tested negative within the previous 12 months and provided the animals to be moved were included in the herd test or were natural additions under 1 year old—no tuberculosis test required,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Cattle over 6 months old not qualifying under §A(2)(b)(i) or A(2)(b)(ii), above, require a negative tuberculin test within 60 days before import.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Steers, except those for exhibition purposes, and spayed heifers are exempt from the requirements in §§A(2)(a) and A(2) (b), above.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Brucellosis (Bang's Disease) Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Cattle from herds which contain brucellosis suspects, or from herds under quarantine or restriction of any kind, are not eligible for entry without a prior written permit from the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Cattle for dairy and breeding purposes, feeder cows, heifers and bulls or beef breeds, including calves and cattle for exhibition purposes, may be imported into Maryland, provided they meet the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Cattle originating from herds not under restriction in certified brucellosis free states—no brucellosis test required;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Cattle from all states not certified brucellosis free:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Originating directly from certified brucellosis free herds—no brucellosis test required,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>All other cattle except steers shall originate directly from qualified herds* shall comply with one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(aa)"> <text>Be official vaccinates under 24 months old with vaccination dates recorded on the interstate certificate,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(bb)"> <text>Be under 6 months old,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(cc)"> <text>Be tested negative within 30 days before entry into Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In all brucellosis procedures and policies not stated above, the latest edition of “Recommended Uniform Methods and Rules” shall apply.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Health Certificates.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Cattle conforming to the preceding tuberculosis and brucellosis requirements will be accompanied by a health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian or a licensed graduate veterinarian and approved by the proper animal health official of the state of origin. The certificate shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A statement certifying that the cattle are free from any evidence of an infectious, parasitic, or transmissible disease, and have not been recently exposed to the same;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The tuberculosis and brucellosis status of the herd and area in which the imported cattle originate, the date and results of brucellosis and tuberculin tests when required, description, age, tag, or tattoo number, specific brand, registry name and number of each animal to be imported.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The names and addresses of the owner consignor and consignee shall be clearly legible.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Public Stockyards and Auctions. Cattle approved for entry into Maryland as free from tuberculosis or brucellosis may not be assembled, handled, or confined in any public stockyard, livestock auction, sales stable or yard, unless they are properly segregated in thoroughly cleaned disinfected pens to prevent their exposure to infected cattle or premises.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Immediate Slaughter.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Apparently healthy cattle of strictly slaughter type to be used only for immediate slaughter may be imported into the State without a health certificate or tuberculosis or brucellosis test, provided the cattle are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Accompanied by a waybill and consigned for immediate slaughter to a recognized public stockyard where federal or State veterinary inspection is maintained;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Shipped to a slaughtering establishment or slaughtering center that is approved and designated by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, and the animal health official in the state of destination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The cattle shall be slaughtered within 10 days after arrival at destination, except when the 10 day period is extended by special permit from the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Horses, Mules, and Asses."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>These animals may be imported into Maryland when accompanied by a health certificate, issued by an official veterinarian of the state of origin or of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture, accredited veterinarian or a licensed graduate veterinarian who has been approved by the proper animal health official of the state of origin. The health certificate shall give the name and address of the consignor and consignee and an accurate description of the animal or animals and certify that the animal or animals, as determined by a physical examination, are free from any evidence of an infectious, transmissible, or parasitic disease and have not been recently exposed to any infectious, transmissible, or parasitic disease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>All equines over 9 months old entering the State shall have been found negative to an official test for equine infectious anemia made within 12 months before entry and shall be accompanied by a copy of the negative test results.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A copy of the approved health certificate shall be forwarded to the Department before the arrival of the animals at their destination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Equines not known to be affected with infectious, transmissible, or parasitic disease and not under restriction are exempt from the interstate health certificate requirement provided they are consigned directly to a Maryland licensed market or auction which handles equines.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Goats."> <text>All goats entering the State for purposes other than immediate slaughter shall be accompanied by an approved interstate health certificate showing a negative test for tuberculosis and brucellosis conducted within 30 days before the date of entry, and that they are clinically free from symptoms of all other infectious and communicable diseases.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Sheep."> <text>All sheep and lambs entering the State for purposes other than immediate slaughter shall be accompanied by an approved interstate health certificate, indicating that the flock of origin was examined not more than 30 days before entry, and that the examination revealed no symptoms of scabies, contagious ecthyma, foot rot, or any other infectious or communicable disease.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Dogs."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All dogs imported into Maryland shall be accompanied by a certificate of health issued by an accredited or a licensed graduate veterinarian and approved by the proper animal health official of the state of origin. The certificate shall state that the dog or dogs:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Are free from symptoms of any infectious or communicable disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Did not originate within an area under quarantine for rabies; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Have been vaccinated (except puppies under 4 months old) within 12 months of shipment with killed rabies vaccine or within 3 years with a modified live virus rabies vaccine.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Dogs consigned directly to research facilities, licensed dealers, or both, as defined by Federal Law No. PL 89-544 are exempted from provisions of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A health certificate will not be required for dogs entering the State temporarily for exhibition purposes, provided the other stated health requirements have been fulfilled.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Wild Animals."> <text>Wild and semi-wild animals under domestication or in custody may be imported into the State, provided that a report of the number of animals is made to the Department, within 72 hours after arrival. Immediate opportunity for examination shall be afforded a representative of the Department, to determine the health status of the animals before the wild animals are released from confinement.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July, 1972</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective January 19, 1977 (4:2 Md. R. 89)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Eradicating Brucellosis in Cattle in Maryland"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Brucellosis exposed animal” means a bull, cow, or calf that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is part of a herd known to be infected with brucellosis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has been in contact with a brucellosis reactor in marketing or other channels for 24 hours or more; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Has been in contact with a brucellosis reactor for less than 24 hours if the brucellosis reactor has aborted or calved within the preceding 30 days, or the reactor has a vaginal or uterine discharge.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Official brucellosis test” means a test or combination of tests performed in an approved State-federal brucellosis laboratory and approved by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Reactor”. The definition of a reactor in “Uniform Methods and Rules” shall apply.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>“Suspect”. The definition of a suspect in “Uniform Methods and Rules” shall apply.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>“Uniform Methods and Rules” means the latest published edition of “Recommended Uniform Methods and Rules--Brucellosis Eradication” as adopted and published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture following recommendations of the Brucellosis Committee of the United States Animal Health Association.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Herd Tests."> <text>Individual tests of any or all animals in a herd will be carried out whenever the Secretary has reason to suspect brucellosis infection may exist among the animals or they have been exposed to the infection. Tests of any or all herds may be done whenever the Secretary, in his judgment, deems it necessary to prevent the spreading of this disease.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Dairy Herds."> <text>At least three times per year, a sample of milk or cream will be collected at the milk plant, creamery, or other location from each herd offering milk or cream for sale, by the office of Animal Health, personnel or by other persons approved by the Director, and the milk sample will be subjected to the milk ring test. Additional samples may be taken at the farm, if deemed advisable by the Director, and subjected to the milk ring test. A herd from which a suspicious or positive milk sample is received will immediately be placed under such restriction or quarantine as the Secretary shall order, until it has been established by official individual animal testing whether brucellosis exists in the herd.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Slaughter Animals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All cattle 2 years old and older, except steers, consigned to slaughter shall be identified at the first point of concentration by an official market cattle identification tag or other method approved by the Secretary. The official identification may not be removed from any animal until slaughtered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Every slaughtering establishment in Maryland shall collect at the time of slaughter a blood sample together with all man-made identification from all cattle 2 years old or older, except steers, regardless of whether they bear official identification. The blood sample shall be protected from conditions causing deterioration, and along with all man-made identification of the animal, shall be submitted to a Department animal health laboratory for brucellosis testing.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Handling Brucellosis Reactor and Exposed Cattle."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Brucellosis Reactors. Brucellosis reactors, revealed by an official brucellosis test, shall be tagged, within 15 days of the date of the test, in the left ear with a reactor tag, and branded on the left jaw with the letter “B”, no smaller than 2 inches or larger than 3 inches in height. Reactors shall be shipped to slaughter under written permit or disposed of in another manner approved by the Secretary within 15 days after branding. The remainder of the herd shall be placed under quarantine and handled as exposed cattle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Exposed Cattle. Brucellosis exposed cattle shall be quarantined and may be moved from the premises only for immediate slaughter and upon written permit. In addition, exposed cattle shall be heat branded on the left jaw with the letter “S” at least 2 inches by 2 inches and identified with an approved metal ear tag at the first point of concentration in Maryland or before leaving the original premises to pass interstate. The following exceptions apply:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Calves under 6 months old which are nursed by brucellosis exposed cows in a herd known to be infected with brucellosis, which herd has been brucellosis tested negative within 10 days before movement; calves under 6 months old that have been weaned from a brucellosis reactor or exposed cows for not less than 30 days immediately preceding the movement may be moved without a brand provided the calves are accompanied by a permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Steers and spayed heifers over 6 months old may be moved without restriction. Exposed animals shall remain under quarantine until sent to slaughter or subjected to tests at intervals the Secretary may require to determine if they are free of brucellosis infection.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Brucellosis Suspects."> <text>Suspects will be quarantined to the premises where revealed until retested negative or sent to slaughter under permit. Herds containing one or more suspects may be quarantined or placed under such restriction as the Secretary may require.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Indemnities."> <text>Federal and State indemnities will be paid to owners of brucellosis reactors depending upon the allocation of funds. Owners of purebred reactors shall surrender registration papers at the time of appraisal.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Shipment."> <text>While in transit, all brucellosis suspects, reactors, and exposed cattle shall be accompanied by an official shipping permit issued by a regulatory official. These animals shall be shipped for immediate slaughter and may not be diverted in transit. Animals transported with a reactor shall be consigned to immediate slaughter unless the reactors are kept separate from the other animals by a partition securely affixed to the sides of the vehicle.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Disinfection."> <text>The premises from which a reactor is removed shall be cleaned and disinfected with an approved disinfectant under regulatory supervision within 15 days after removal of the reactor, unless the procedure is considered unnecessary by the Secretary.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Official Vaccination of Calves with Strain 19 Brucella Vaccine."> <text>On and after July 1, 1976, the age for official vaccination of calves with Strain 19 Brucella Vaccine shall be as follows:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All heifers, regardless of breed--2 to 6 months (60 through 179 days) old;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Heifers vaccinated after July 1, 1976, older than 179 days will not be eligible for indemnity if found to be reactors on a blood test after the animal is 24 months old.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Procedures and Policies not Covered in the Regulations."> <text>In all procedures and policies relating to the eradication of brucellosis in cattle not covered above, the latest published edition of “Recommended Uniform Methods and Rules” shall apply.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March, 1968</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01, .04B, .05, .08, .09, and .10 amended effective</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">December 2, 1977 (4:25 Md. R. 1915)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Health Requirements for Cattle Passing through Public Stockyards, Public Sales and Livestock Dealers, and Farm to Farm Sales"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="General Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All bovine animals are subject to inspection for evidence of infectious disease including those caused by parasites. Affected and exposed animals are not eligible for movement to Maryland farms and shall be consigned directly to slaughter or handled in such a manner as specified by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Diagnostic tests of cattle may be required when it is considered necessary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Cattle classified as suspects or reactors as a result of a test performed at a stockyard or auction market, shall be consigned directly to slaughter, or handled in such manner as specified by the Secretary, and no indemnity paid. Exposed animals will be handled at the discretion of the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>It is prohibited for any person or persons to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Conceal the identity or origin of a bovine animal within the State; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Remove manually, for the purpose of concealing or falsely representing the identity of the animal, any means of identification such as back tag, ear tag, tattoo, or other means of identification recognized by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Records of Animals Received and Disposed of.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>It shall be the duty of each livestock dealer and livestock market operator to maintain a record covering all animals received and disposed of. These records shall include the date of receipt and date of sale, and the name and address of the consignor and purchaser. Each animal shall be identified by a metal ear tag number, tattoo number, purebred name and registry number, or a horn or hoof brand number, by breed, sex, age, and approximate weight, the health status and the purpose for which the animals are consigned, that is, for breeding, feeding, grazing, or milk production. Individual identification is not required for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Steers, or spayed heifers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Calves under 8 months old of beef type for feeding and grazing purposes.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>These records shall be retained for a period of 3 years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>It shall be the duty of every livestock trucker, livestock dealer, livestock market operator, and slaughtering establishment subject to or maintaining meat inspection, to identify upon receipt, unless already identified by back tag, all bovine breeding animals 2 years old and over originating from herds in this State and received for sale or shipment to a slaughtering establishment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The identification, unless otherwise authorized by the Secretary, shall consist of an official back tag issued by the Department or the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S.D.A., and shall be affixed to the animals at a point approximately 4 inches behind the shoulder and 4 inches below the top line.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Every person required to identify animals in accordance with this regulation shall file reports, on forms prescribed and at intervals prescribed by the Secretary, of all animals identified including the back tag number and date of application, and the name, address, and county of residence of the person who owned or controlled the herd from which the animals originated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>The requirements of this regulation may not apply to livestock truckers with respect to animals received for delivery directly to a livestock market agreeing to accept responsibility for back tag identification, if at the time of delivery the market is furnished with information identifying the herd of origin.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Animals with one pair of fully erupted permanent incisors will be deemed to be 24 months old.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Requirements for Cattle Passing Through Auction Markets or Public Stockyards for Return to Maryland Farms."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All cattle for return to farms shall be in compliance with Regulation .02A-E.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Brucellosis.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Cattle originating directly from herds not under restriction in Maryland or other certified brucellosis free states may be moved to farms in Maryland without a brucellosis test.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Cattle originating from states not certified brucellosis free shall comply with one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Be consigned direct to slaughter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Be accompanied by an official interstate certificate fully complying with Maryland regulations for importation of cattle from states not certified brucellosis free.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Tuberculosis.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Cattle originating directly from herds not under restriction in Maryland may be moved to farms in Maryland without a tuberculosis test.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Cattle originating from states other than Maryland shall comply with one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Be consigned direct to slaughter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Be accompanied by an official interstate certificate fully complying with the tuberculosis requirements for the importation of cattle into Maryland or meet these requirements before release.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Steers, except those for exhibition purposes and spayed heifers, are exempt from tuberculosis testing requirements.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Requirements for Farm to Farm Sales Within Maryland Including Sales from Farms to Dealers to Farms."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All animals shall be identified in accordance with Regulation .02A—E.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Herd Dispersal Sales.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Brucellosis Requirements. All herds shall comply with one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Have at least 3 negative milk ring tests within the 12 months immediately preceding the sale;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Have a complete negative brucellosis herd test within the 12 months immediately preceding the sale.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Tuberculosis Requirements. All herds shall have a complete negative tuberculosis test within the 12 months immediately preceding the sale.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Brucellosis and tuberculosis tests are not required for farm to farm sales, or for animals purchased by dealers from Maryland farms and sold to Maryland farms, except as noted in §B, above.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103 and 3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July, 1972</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Prohibiting Living Hog Cholera Virus Vaccine in Maryland" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 1, 1968</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter repealed effective December 9, 2004 (31:24 Md. R. 1729)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Swine Imported into Maryland"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Swine for Shipment into Maryland."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Swine imported for purposes other than immediate slaughter are subject to the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each shipment shall be accompanied by an official interstate health certificate, identifying the individual swine in the shipment by ear tag or other approved means, and stating that the swine are free from and have not been exposed to an infectious or contagious disease. A copy of this certificate shall be forwarded immediately to the Office of Animal Health of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All feeder and breeder swine entering Maryland from any state where hog cholera or pseudorabies has been known to exist during the preceding 6 months shall be accompanied by a permit issued before shipment by the Department. The permit may be refused or conditioned based upon reports of hog cholera or pseudorabies by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and officials of other states.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All feeder and breeder swine entering Maryland shall originate from a herd not known to be infected with pseudorabies (Aujesky's Disease) during the past 6 months.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>All swine imported into Maryland farms shall be maintained in quarantine on one premises without exposure to other swine for 30 days after entering the State, and, are subject to inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Breeding swine are subject to all the requirements above and in addition shall meet the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Swine over 6 months old shall have been negative to an official test for swine brucellosis conducted within 30 days before shipment unless the swine have originated directly from a validated brucellosis free herd. Information regarding the brucellosis test status of the imported swine or the herd of origin, or both, shall be entered on the interstate health certificate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Individual animals shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Be negative to a serum neutralization (SN) or other test for pseudorabies approved by the Secretary, conducted within 30 days of entry by a State or federal laboratory; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Originate from a herd listed as designated a qualified pseudorabies negative herd by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services, USDA.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If not eartagged, swine shall be identified by registry name and number and a description sufficient to identify the animal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>All swine temporarily in the State for exhibition purposes shall meet all the preceding requirements except §A(4) of this Regulation, above.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Swine for immediate slaughter are subject to the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Swine may be imported for immediate slaughter without a certificate of health, or prior permit provided they are consigned directly to an approved public stockyard (terminal market), approved livestock auction market, or to a slaughtering establishment recognized by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Swine imported for immediate slaughter shall be kept completely segregated and isolated from swine consigned for other purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All slaughter swine weighing less than 170 pounds shall be identified by a yellow paint mark on the back measuring not less than 3 x 3 inches or by another method approved by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November, 1971</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02A amended effective October 6, 1978 (5:20 Md. R. 1500)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="06" heading="Swine Herd Validation for Brucellosis and Validated-free Areas in Maryland"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Herd test” includes a test of all breeding swine 6 months old or older in a given herd.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Infected herd” means a herd that discloses one or more swine showing a complete agglutination reaction in the blood titer dilution of 1:100 or higher, or a positive reaction to the card test.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Negative herd” means a herd:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That discloses no swine having agglutination reactions higher than incomplete at the 1:100 dilution, or any swine positive to the card test. All animals over 6 months old in the herd are to be included in the brucellosis test.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In which at least 10 percent of the breeding swine have been tested annually in a market swine testing program for 3 consecutive years with no positive test results.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>“Negative swine” means a swine from:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An infected herd or herd of unknown status that disclosed no reaction or less than complete agglutination in the blood titer dilution of 1:25, or a swine reported to be negative to the card test;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A validated or negative herd that discloses no reaction or less than complete agglutination in the blood titer dilution of 1:100, or that has no reaction to the card test.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>“Official test for brucellosis” means either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The tube agglutination test;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The brucellosis card test; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any other test that may be recommended by the United States Animal Health Association and approved by the United States Department of Agriculture and the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>“Reactor” or “positive swine” means swine:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Disclosing a complete agglutination reaction in the blood titer dilution of 1:100 or higher;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In an infected herd or herd of unknown status having a complete reaction in the 1:25 dilution or higher; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Disclosing a positive card test reaction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Identification."> <text>All swine tested shall be identified with an approved ear tag, tattoo, or other means as specified or approved by the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Herd Validation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Negative Herds. A swine herd will be validated following two consecutive negative tests on the entire breeding herd 30 to 90 days apart. However, if all breeding swine tested on the first test can be accounted for on the validating test, an extension of time may be granted, but the extension will not be allowed to exceed 180 days. This includes all breeding animals 6 months old and older. Validation is effective for 12 months unless otherwise revoked. The validated status will apply to all offspring born since the last test. A swine of unknown brucellosis status or of a suspicious brucellosis status may not be added to or associated with a validated herd or a herd in the process of becoming validated. Herd validation will be voided under these circumstances.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Validated Herds.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Owners of herds that comply with validation requirements will be issued validation certificates by the Department and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and may use them in advertising their breeding stock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Upon expiration, validation certificates will not be renewed (or will be cancelled, whichever is appropriate) until such time as the herd again satisfies validation requirements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Upon finding one or more reactors in a validated herd, the validation certificate will be immediately cancelled.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Infected Herds.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All infected herds shall be held in quarantine until free of brucellosis as determined by blood testing and until declared free of brucellosis by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In herds with reactors one of the following plans shall be selected by the herd owner in consultation with an agent of the Department, for eradicating the disease and qualifying the herd for validation:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Plan A. This plan is recommended for infected herds showing clinical symptoms of brucellosis.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The entire herd shall be sent to slaughter as soon as practicable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Houses and equipment shall be cleaned and disinfected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Restocking shall be done with swine from a negative herd.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Following two consecutive negative tests 30 to 90 days apart, the herd will be eligible for validation, and a certificate issued on proof of eligibility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Plan B. This plan is useful in herds where only a few reactors are found and where no clinical symptoms of brucellosis have been noted.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>All reactors should be sent to slaughter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The herd shall be retested at 30 day intervals, removing reactors for slaughter, until the entire herd is negative.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Two negative tests not less than 90 days apart, on all breeding animals 6 months old or older, will qualify the herd for validation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>If the herd is not freed of infection within 180 days, Plan A will be recommended.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Herd Revalidation. Herds may be revalidated at the end of each 12-month period upon the basis of a negative test on all breeding animals 6 months old or older in the herd.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Cancellation of Herd Validation. If there are reactors revealed in the herd, or if the herd fails to requalify for validation renewal within 14 months, the validation certificate will be cancelled and the herd must requalify for validation in accordance with this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Area Plan."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Area Validation. Following a request from swine owners within a designated area, the Department and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, may declare that area validated-brucellosis-free provided it fulfills the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All breeding herds in the designated area shall have attained negative status.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Not more than 3 percent of the herds, or one herd, whichever is greater, shall have been found to be infected during the 18-month qualification period.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Areas may qualify as validated-brucellosis-free for a period of 3 years provided all breeding herds in the designated area qualify under one of the two following procedures:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All herds of breeding swine in the designated area shall be validated or have a negative herd test, in which all breeding swine 6 months old or older are tested. All herds of breeding swine in the designated area qualifying under the procedure shall have been tested within 18 months before the date validation is requested.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>All herds of breeding swine in the designated area shall be validated or have established negative herd status under a market swine testing program (10 percent of the breeding swine to be tested annually for 3 consecutive years).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Area Revalidation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Areas which carry out one of the following provisions may be revalidated at the expiration of the 3 year period:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Negative herd test, in which all breeding swine 6 months old or older are tested and found negative within the last 18 months of the 3 year validation period.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Each herd of breeding swine shall blood test at least 10 percent of the breeding swine over 6 months old, or a minimum of one animal, whichever is greater, within the 3-year period. If one- half of the required tests are not reported by the end of the first 18 months of the 3 year validation period, it will be necessary to blood test all breeding swine in each herd in the area as under this subsection.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Infected Herds. Herds found infected during the validation period shall be placed under quarantine until freed of brucellosis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Disposal of Reactors. Reactors shall be permanently identified by tag or brand, or both, and moved under permit within 10 days for immediate slaughter to an approved slaughtering establishment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Cleaning and Disinfection. Buildings, farrowing pens, and equipment shall be cleaned and disinfected following removal of the reactors.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Permissible Infection Rate for Revalidation. The accumulated number of infected herds in a validated-brucellosis-free area may not exceed 5 percent of the herds in the area, or one herd, whichever is greater, over the 3 year validation period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Cancellation of Area Validation. Cancellation shall become effective at the end of a 36-month period if the designated area does not qualify for revalidation under §B, above.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Introduction of Swine into Validated-Free Areas and Movement of Swine Through Auction Markets and Livestock Sales."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Swine for immediate slaughter may move through regular marketing channels (approved livestock markets and approved slaughtering establishments) without brucellosis testing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Swine for feeding purposes may enter without a test, or may be held in validated areas without a test, provided the swine are maintained in isolation separate and apart from all breeding stock as approved by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Swine originating in validated-brucellosis-free herds, or negative non-validated herds in validated-brucellosis-free areas, may enter a non-validated herd without a test, provided the swine are moved directly and have not been in contact with infected swine or swine of an unknown brucellosis status, and have not been exposed to an infected premises.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Swine originating in herds not described in §C, above, shall have passed a negative test within 30 days before the date of entry, to be held in isolation, and pass one additional negative test within 30 to 60 days before being added to the herd.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Swine over 6 months old sold through auction markets or livestock sales, to be returned to farms for breeding purposes, shall originate directly from a validated herd, or be blood tested negative within 30 days before sale, or be blood tested negative before release.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>All swine consigned to farms in Maryland shall be transported in conveyances that have been properly cleaned and disinfected.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June, 1968</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="07" heading="Control, Eradication, or Both, of Infectious Diseases of Swine"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Recognized slaughtering establishment” means a slaughtering establishment operating under supervision of municipal, State, or federal meat inspection or recognized by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Stockyard” or “livestock market” means a place in the State where swine are assembled for sale, either by private sale or public auction. All livestock markets in Maryland not under federal-State cooperative approval must receive approval from the Department before being permitted to handle swine. Approval will be based on the standards presently set forth and as may be amended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture governing interstate movement of swine with reference to hog cholera and other communicable diseases.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Movement of Swine."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Slaughter. Swine may be sold direct to recognized slaughtering establishments without restriction, if they are identified as provided under 9 CFR §71.19 and §§78.30—78.34 (1991), which are incorporated by reference with the following modifications:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Whenever “Administrator” appears, read “Secretary”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Whenever “interstate” appears, read “intrastate”; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Whenever “authorized employee of the United States Department of Agriculture” appears, read “authorized employee of the Maryland Department of Agriculture”.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For Other Than Slaughter.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All swine for sale or movement by any method shall meet the following conditions:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All are subject to veterinary inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>All swine are restricted to one movement. One movement is defined as from farm to farm, from farm to auction market to farm, or from farm to dealer to farm. The entire movement shall be completed within 72 hours.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Swine sold for return to farms may not show evidence of any infectious or contagious disease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>All purchased swine shall be quarantined to the premises of destination for 30 days regardless of origin.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Swine consigned to Maryland from other states are subject to State and federal interstate regulations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In addition to those above, swine for sale or movement through dealers, auction markets, and public stockyards shall meet the following conditions:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All public stockyards and livestock markets where swine are sold for purposes other than immediate slaughter and all trucks transporting the swine shall be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before each use for swine. Each market or truck operator shall be responsible for the proper cleaning of his market or vehicle to the satisfaction of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>All swine at public stockyards and auction markets shall be individually identified by eartag or other method approved by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>All swine for return to farms shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Originate from either pseudorabies monitored or qualified pseudorabies negative herds unless they have been tested and found negative for pseudorabies within 30 days before sale;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Be kept completely segregated and isolated from swine consigned for sale as slaughter swine; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>At public sales and auctions, be sold before the sales ring and alleyways are used for slaughter swine.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>At public sales and auctions, cull swine (those which do not pass veterinary inspection for health reasons) shall be penned separate and apart from feeder or breeder swine. They may be released for slaughter. If, in the opinion of the inspecting veterinarian, they are unfit for slaughter, they may be released to a rendering plant or direct to a farm in Maryland to be held separate and apart from other swine under permanent quarantine until they are suitable for slaughter and then released by written permission.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The name and address of the consignor of any swine showing evidence of infectious or contagious disease shall be reported without delay to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>All swine leaving auction markets and public stockyards shall be accompanied by a certificate of release.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Auction markets, public stockyards, and dealers shall maintain records of origin and destination of all swine movements and shall grant federal and State inspectors access to those records.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November, 1971</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective July 6, 1992 (19:13 Md. R. 1203)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="08" heading="Eradication of Hog Cholera" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November, 1971</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.09 repealed effective August 20, 2012 (39:16 Md. R. 1081)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="09" heading="Eradication of Tuberculosis in Swine"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Reactor” means the same as the definition of a reactor in “Uniform Methods and Rules.” There is no suspect category in swine tuberculin testing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Tuberculin test” means the intradermal test as described in the Uniform Methods and Rules for Tuberculosis Eradication.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>“Uniform Methods and Rules” means the latest edition of Uniform Methods and Rules for Tuberculosis Eradication as published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Reporting Tuberculosis."> <text>All persons having knowledge of the existence of or suspicion of the existence of tuberculosis in swine or poultry shall report it to the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Quarantine."> <text>Any premises upon which swine tuberculosis reactors are disclosed, or any premises to which slaughter swine with confirmed lesions of tuberculosis have been traced, or any premises where the Secretary has reason to suspect tuberculosis infection may exist or exposure to tuberculosis has taken place, shall be subject to immediate quarantine. Once quarantine is imposed, movement of swine on or off the premises shall be prohibited, except for slaughter purposes under written permit issued by the Secretary. This quarantine shall include any other species of animal or fowl that the Secretary determines is infected with or has been exposed to tuberculosis. The quarantine shall be released after it has been determined, by testing or other means, that tuberculosis no longer exists on the premises and any cleaning and disinfecting required by the Secretary has been completed.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Herd Test."> <text>Tuberculin tests of any or all swine in a herd will be carried out whenever the Secretary has reason to suspect that tuberculosis exists in the herd or that it has been exposed to this infection. Further testing, or other appropriate procedures, shall be conducted on the farm in order to find and remove sources of infection in any species of animal or poultry on the premises. All tests for tuberculosis shall be reported promptly.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Epidemiology."> <text>When an infected herd has been found, a complete epidemiological investigation shall be made. This should cover all species of animals and fowl on the premises.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Reactors."> <text>Tuberculin test reactors shall be identified with a reactor tag and sent to slaughter under permit or disposed of in other manner approved by the Secretary within 30 days of the test date.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Indemnity."> <text>Indemnity by the State shall be paid in accord with Agriculture Article, § 3-107, Annotated Code of Maryland, and the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Indemnities will be paid to owners of tuberculosis reactors and to owners of herds depopulated because of the existence of tuberculosis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Swine of feeder, slaughter, or both types shall be appraised using the prevailing market quotation price per pound as a guide. This will vary with age, size, and quality of the animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Breeding swine shall be appraised using the price of similar animals in recent sales as a guide.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Maximum indemnity from State sources may not exceed $175 per animal. Maximum indemnity payments shall be reserved for breeding swine.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If indemnity from other sources is paid to owners of swine destroyed because of the existence of tuberculosis, indemnity from State sources will be paid only to the extent that total indemnity payments plus net salvage received does not exceed 90 percent of the appraised value of the animal.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Cleaning and Disinfecting."> <text>Infected premises and all vehicles and equipment used in connection with the infected premises shall be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected in a manner approved by the Secretary.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Department Cooperation with U.S.D.A."> <text>When the U. S.D.A. has approved and put into effect a program for the control and eradication of tuberculosis in swine, the Department intends to cooperate with U.S.D.A. in carrying out the program.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Other Procedures and Policies."> <text>In all procedures and policies relating to the eradication of tuberculosis in swine not covered above, the latest published edition of “Uniform Methods and Rules for Tuberculosis Eradication” shall apply.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 16, 1972</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="10" heading="Eradication of Sheep Scabies in Maryland" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: December 1, 1962</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.11 repealed effective August 20, 2012 (39:16 Md. R. 1082)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="11" heading="Salmonellosis of Poultry"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>These regulations explain a program jointly administered by the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of Health to protect both human health and poultry from contagious and infectious diseases. Other portions of this program are explained in COMAR 15.04.01, 10.15.03, and 10.15.04.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Commercial flock” means a flock whose eggs are distributed, offered for sale, or sold for human consumption.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Exhibition” means displaying or showing poultry for competition or advancement of the species, including, among other examples, county and State fairs, farm shows, and breeding shows.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Flock” means all of the poultry on one premises, except any group of poultry that has been segregated for 21 days may be considered a separate flock by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Hatchery” means incubators, hatchers, and auxiliary equipment on one premises operated for the hatching or incubation of hatching eggs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Junior exhibitor” means an exhibitor under 19 years old.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Multiplier breeding flock” means a flock intended for the production of hatching eggs used for the purpose of producing progeny for commercial egg or meat production or for other nonbreeding purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“NPIP” means the National Poultry Improvement Plan of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 9 CFR Parts 145—147.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Official establishment” means any establishment engaged in slaughtering or processing solely for intrastate commerce poultry and poultry products capable of use as human food and inspected under the Maryland Poultry Products Inspection Act, Agriculture Article, §4-201 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Official state agency” means the authority in each state recognized by USDA to cooperate in the administration of the National Poultry Improvement Plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Official state diagnostic laboratory” means a laboratory:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Operated by the Maryland Department of Agriculture or by the Maryland Department of Health; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Recognized and approved for poultry diagnostic activities by the chief livestock health official of any other state.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, corporation, partnership, association, or any other legal entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Poultry” means live fowl, including, but not limited to, chickens, turkeys, waterfowl, and game birds (for example, pea fowl, pheasants, chukars, partridges, quail, grouse, and guinea fowl, but not doves or pigeons).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Primary breeding flock” means a flock of one or more generations that is maintained for establishing, continuing, or improving parent lines.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Pullorum” means a Salmonella pullorum disease of poultry.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Pullorum-typhoid test” means a test recognized by the National Poultry Improvement Plan to test poultry for pullorum disease and fowl typhoid.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Typhoid” means fowl typhoid, a Salmonella gallinarum disease of poultry.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“U.S. Pullorum Clean” means a flock of poultry that has been found to be free by USDA of pullorum or typhoid under NPIP.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Waterfowl” means domesticated fowl which normally swim, such as ducks and geese.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Imported Poultry."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Diseased Poultry.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided under §A(2) of this regulation, a person may not import poultry into Maryland if that person knows or has reason to know that poultry are infected with pullorum, typhoid, or Salmonella serotype enteritidis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If poultry are known to be infected with pullorum, typhoid, or Salmonella serotype enteritidis, a person may ship them into Maryland only if they are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Being shipped to an official establishment for immediate slaughter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Labeled to show that they are infected.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Health Restrictions on Imported Poultry.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>This section does not apply to poultry moved for immediate slaughter to an official establishment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person may not import chickens into Maryland for producing eggs for human consumption unless the official state agency of the exporting state certifies that they meet the standards of Regulation .05A.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Unless poultry originate from U.S. Pullorum-Typhoid Clean or equivalent flocks, a poultry importer shall have the poultry tested for pullorum and typhoid within 90 days before the poultry's arrival in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Health Restrictions on Importing Hatching Eggs. A person may not import hatching eggs into Maryland:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Unless the eggs originate from U.S. Pullorum-Typhoid Clean or equivalent flocks;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For raising chickens to be used to produce eggs for human consumption, unless the official state agency of the exporting state certifies that the flock from which the eggs immediately originate meets the requirements of Regulation .05B or C.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Permits."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Activities Requiring Permit. A person shall have a numbered annual permit from the Secretary before doing the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Distributing, offering for sale, or selling:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Hatching eggs, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Poultry, unless the poultry are being moved for immediate slaughter to an official establishment; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Operating a hatchery.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requirements. A person who holds a permit under this regulation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Only distribute, offer for sale, or sell:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Hatching eggs and poultry that are derived immediately from flocks and hatcheries participating in the NPIP or equivalent program,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Poultry used for producing eggs for human consumption, that meet the standards of Regulation .05A, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Hatching eggs, if the eggs are for raising chickens to produce eggs for human consumption, that are derived from parent flocks that meet the standards of Regulation .05A;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Use the required permit number on each invoice, NPIP Form 15, or similar certificate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Comply with the following record-keeping requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except for birds being shipped for immediate slaughter, record the number, breed, variety of poultry or hatching eggs purchased and sold, date of transaction, and name and address of source (for example, seller) and destination (for example, buyer), and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Retain these records for 12 months from the date of the transaction;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Allow the Department's representative to inspect:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Those records required to be maintained under §B(3)(a), and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>All hatcheries, equipment, and facilities used for poultry;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Maintain all hatcheries, equipment, and facilities used for poultry or hatching eggs, including auction and sales barns, in a sanitary condition in conformity with NPIP regulations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Post the required permit in a conspicuous place on the permitted premises.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Application, Duration, and Renewal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Before the Department may issue a permit to a person, the person shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Apply for a permit on a form supplied by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Permit the Department to inspect:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Those records that indicate the number, breed, and variety of poultry or hatching eggs that the applicant has, the person from whom they were obtained, and the date of that transaction, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>All hatcheries, equipment, and facilities used for poultry or hatching eggs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department may not issue a permit to a person until it has determined that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The eggs and poultry that the person has meet the requirements of §B(1), for distributing, offering for sale, or selling these items; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>All hatcheries, equipment, and facilities used for poultry or hatching eggs are in a sanitary condition in conformity with NPIP regulations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Unless revoked, a permit is effective until December 31 of the year that it was issued.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>To renew a permit, a person shall follow the same procedures outlined in §C(1).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Standards Designed to Control and Prevent Salmonellosis."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Commercial Flock.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person having a commercial flock in Maryland shall have the flock tested in accordance with either §A(2) or (3) unless the flock is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Participating in and meets the requirements of the:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>NPIP's “U.S. Sanitation Monitored” program for egg-type chicken breeding flocks, 9 CFR 145—147, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>“Salmonella Enteritidis Monitored Flock Program of Pennsylvania” or an equivalent plan of another state, provided that plan has been approved by the Secretary;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Derived immediately from a multiplier breeding flock that has been tested and found negative for Salmonella serotype enteritidis under the procedures outlined in §B; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Derived immediately from a primary breeding flock that has been tested and found negative for Salmonella serotype enteritidis under §C.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Environmental Sampling/Serological Test. A person shall allow the Department to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Collect environmental samples from all egg belts, elevators, or both, within caged systems or throughout open floor systems;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Culture or biochemically test these samples for the presence of Salmonella serotype enteritidis species;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Test, if any flock tests positive to environmental testing, a random sample of 500 birds per house for the presence of Salmonella enteritidis antibodies; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Permanently identify and submit a statistically significant sample of seropositive birds to an official state diagnostic laboratory for pathological examination and culture for Salmonella serotype enteritidis.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Blood Testing. A person shall permit the Department to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Test a random sample of 300 birds per house for the presence of Salmonella serotype enteritidis antibodies; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Handle birds testing positive in the manner provided under §A(2)(d).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Multiplier Breeding Flock.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §B(2), a person having a multiplier breeding flock shall have the flock tested by the Department as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>At least 300 birds per age group shall be randomly selected and blood tested for the presence of Salmonella serotype enteritidis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The flock shall undergo environmental sampling of nests and litter each month;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>At least 30 dead in shell embryos shall be tested each 3 months; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any serological evidence of infection shall be followed with bacteriological examination of a statistically significant sample of reactor birds from each age group and, only if the bacteriology is negative, shall the flock be considered negative.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person owning a multiplier breeding flock is not required to have the flock tested as described in §B(1) if the flock is participating in and meets the requirements of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The NPIP's “U.S. Sanitation Monitored” program for egg-type chicken breeding flocks; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The “Salmonella Enteritidis Monitored Flock Program of Pennsylvania” or an equivalent program of another state, provided that plan has been approved by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Primary Breeding Flock.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §C(2), a person having a primary breeding flock shall follow the same procedures outlined in §B.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Instead of randomly selecting and testing 300 birds per age group as provided under §B(1) for a primary breeding flock a person shall allow the official State agency to randomly select and test the larger of the following two groups:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>300 birds per age group; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>1 percent per age group.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Effect of Isolating Salmonella Serotype Enteritidis. If Salmonella serotype enteritidis is isolated from a flock in Maryland, a person may distribute, offer for sale, or sell only:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Eggs from that flock that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Have been pasteurized or otherwise heat treated to kill Salmonella serotype enteritidis, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Are to be pasteurized, provided the eggs are moved to a plant that the USDA has approved for processing egg products; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Birds or progeny from that flock for slaughter, provided the birds are moved for slaughter to an official establishment to be inspected and either condemned or passed for cooking only.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Exhibitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A sponsor of an exhibition shall notify the Secretary of the following within 30 days before the exhibition date: the name, place, and inclusive dates and hours of the exhibition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The requirements for an exhibition are as follows: Poultry, except waterfowl, at exhibitions shall originate from U.S. Pullorum-Typhoid Clean or equivalent flocks, or shall have had a negative pullorum-typhoid test within 90 days of its movement to an exhibition. This information shall be documented on an NPIP Form 15, NPIP Form 3B or similar certificate which shall accompany poultry on exhibition. In place of NPIP Form 15 or 3B, a junior exhibitor may substitute a health certificate signed by a Maryland Agricultural Extension Agent or the Department, indicating that exhibited poultry has originated from a U.S. Pullorum-Typhoid Clean or equivalent flock within the previous 12 months.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Record Keeping. A sponsor of an exhibition shall compile a list of all poultry at the exhibition. This list shall contain the name and address of each owner, the number, type, sex, and pullorum-typhoid status of all poultry. A copy of this list shall be kept by the sponsor of the exhibition for 12 months and shall be made available upon the request of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Inspection. All exhibitions are subject to inspection by the Department. The Department shall have access to all exhibitions and may conduct inspections and tests to enforce this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Infection of Poultry by Salmonella Pullorum, Salmonella Typhoid, or Salmonella Serotype Enteritidis."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Reporting. A person performing poultry disease diagnostic services shall report within 48 hours of diagnosis to the Secretary the diagnosis of infection of poultry by Salmonella pullorum, Salmonella gallinarum, or Salmonella serotype enteritidis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Investigation. The Secretary shall conduct an immediate investigation upon receipt of a report of pullorum, typhoid, or Salmonella serotype enteritidis infection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Flock Infected with Salmonella. The Secretary shall quarantine any flock found to be infected with Salmonella pullorum, Salmonella gallinarum, or in the case of a commercial flock, only when infected with Salmonella serotype enteritidis. To prevent the further spread of these diseases, the Secretary may not release the quarantine until the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Flock is disposed of or retested and certified by the Secretary; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Premises have been cleaned and disinfected.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Hatching Eggs Infected with Salmonella.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall quarantine a hatchery found to have eggs from a flock infected with Salmonella pullorum, Salmonella gallinarum, or Salmonella serotype enteritidis. To prevent the further spread of these diseases, the Secretary may not release the quarantine until the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Hatching eggs have been disposed of; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Hatchery has been cleaned and disinfected.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If biosecurity can be maintained, the Secretary may permit hatching eggs infected with Salmonella serotype enteritidis to be held for chicks and the live birds treated as an exposed flock. The Secretary, however, may not release the quarantine unless and until the birds have been tested and found negative for Salmonella serotype enteritidis under the procedures outlined in Regulation .05.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Noncompliance."> <text>A person who violates these regulations or who falsely answers questions contained in any permit application, or who willingly interferes with the Department in carrying out a duty as provided in these regulations, shall forfeit his permit. A person who violates these regulations is guilty of a misdemeanor as provided by Maryland law.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Designation of Agent."> <text>For the purpose of enforcing the regulations of this chapter, the Secretary may designate an agent of the Maryland Department of Health as the Secretary's representative.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101; Health-General Article, §21-211; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January, 1952</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective November 18, 1977 (4:24 Md. R. 1807)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective August 2, 1989, (16:17 Md. R. 1883); revised permanently effective November 13, 1989</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">(16:22 Md. R. 2365)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="12" heading="Equine Infectious Anemia"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Accredited veterinarian” means a licensed veterinarian approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Approved pesticide” means any pesticide which is recognized and approved by the Department or the U.S. Department of Agriculture as an effective agent in the control or eradication of possible insect or arachnid vectors of equine infectious anemia.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Equine infectious anemia (swamp fever)” means a disease of equines caused by a virus which is infectious in nature and spreads from horse to horse by blood sucking insects, unsterile surgical instruments (especially hypodermic needles) and the community use of equipment that produces cuts and abrasions. The virus can infect both sexes, all age groups and all breeds and species of equines. Infected animals remain carriers of the disease for their entire lifetime, constituting a potential source of spread. The disease may be acute or chronic or inapparent. There is no known cure or treatment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>“Horse” means any member of the equine family, including horses, mules, asses, zebra, or other equidae.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Official Test.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Official test” means an official test for equine infectious anemia accomplished by a laboratory approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture on blood samples collected by accredited veterinarians.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Official test” includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The agar get immunodiffusion (AGID) blood test using only antigen licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA); or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The synthetic antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (saELISA).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>“Reactor” means a horse over 9 months old whose blood reacts positively to an approved serological test for equine infectious anemia performed by an approved laboratory.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>“Suspect horse” means a horse showing clinical evidence of equine infectious anemia without confirmation by tests.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Dangerous Transmissible Disease."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Equine infectious anemia is proclaimed to be a disease of transmissible nature and henceforth shall be known as a dangerous transmissible disease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Report of Tests. All tests for equine infectious anemia shall be reported to the Department. Tests conducted in an approved laboratory within the State shall be reported on official forms furnished for this purpose. Veterinarians submitting blood samples for tests in laboratories outside Maryland shall furnish a copy of the test record to the Secretary immediately upon receipt of the test results from the testing laboratory.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Report of Disease. A person having knowledge of the existence of equine infectious anemia or knowledge of an animal afflicted with or suffering from equine infectious anemia anywhere within the State shall immediately make a written report to the Secretary, giving the name and address of the owner or person in charge of the animal and the place where the animal is kept.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Identification of Reactors. Horses which disclose a positive reaction to an official test shall be presented by the owner to the Department and permanently identified by a representative of the Department, using a visible body brand, by applying the letter “A” preceded by the number "51" and followed by a number assigned by the Secretary to indicate individual identification. An animal under 9 months old which reacts positively to an official test shall be quarantined and retested when 9 months old, and if positive at that time shall be subject to permanent identification and continued quarantine.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Quarantine. A horse found to be infected with equine infectious anemia shall be quarantined on its home farm or such other premises as may be approved by the Secretary until death. However, the Secretary may authorize the movement of infected animals to approved facilities for research purposes or for slaughter to approved facilities. The infected animal shall be segregated from all other horses in approved isolation facilities or, at the alternative of the owner, destroyed without indemnity. Isolated quarantine facilities and animals located in them shall be treated with an approved pesticide at such intervals as directed by an authorized representative of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Movements into Quarantined Facilities. Horses shall be moved into quarantined isolation facilities under special permit under such conditions as may be approved by the Secretary. These animals assume the same status as animals under quarantine.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Movement from Quarantined Facility. Foals born in quarantined facilities and found negative before reaching nine months of age, and other animals negative on tests before entry into the quarantined facility and found still negative on test before removal may be moved to new non-infected premises but will remain under quarantine in the new location until a second negative test is made, not sooner than 30 days after removal from the original infected, quarantined facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Unaffected Horses on Quarantined Premises. Horses not infected which are located on premises where infected animals are properly quarantined in isolation are not considered to be under quarantine and may be moved from the premises intrastate.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Test Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For Shipment into Maryland. All equines over 9 months old entering the State shall have been found negative to an official test for equine infectious anemia made within 12 months before entry, and shall be accompanied by a copy of the official negative test result or be consigned directly to a market or auction licensed by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For Exhibition. All equines over 9 months old assembled for supervised exhibition in the State shall have been found negative to an official test for equine infectious anemia made within 12 months before the date of the event. The supervisor of the event shall ascertain that a copy of the official negative test results accompanies each equine to the event and shall make a list of the entries and their test status available for inspection by a representative of the Secretary upon request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Change of Ownership.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person may not change ownership of an equine over 9 months old unless it has been found negative to an official test for equine infectious anemia made within 12 months before the date of the change of ownership. A copy of the negative test shall accompany the equine at the time of ownership transfer and becomes the property of the new owner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Equines consigned for slaughter to an establishment approved by the Secretary shall be exempt from testing requirements.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For Markets or Auctions. Horses may be assembled at a market or auction without a negative test for equine infectious anemia, only if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon entering the market or auction, the operator shall be responsible for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Applying an identification approved by the Department on each equine; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Obtaining the complete name and address of each owner who either delivers, or has another individual deliver, a horse to the market or auction for sale.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All horses, while assembled at the market or auction, have blood samples drawn for equine infectious anemia testing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The operator of the market or auction employs a licensed accredited veterinarian to draw blood samples from all horses delivered for sale, and records all visible markings, including sex, age, color, and other permanent identifiers of each horse bled; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The operator announces, prior to the market or auction, that all horses will be tested for equine infectious anemia.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Each buyer of a horse or horses at the market or auction shall be required to sign a release form indicating agreement to maintain such horse or horses at a specified location until notified of the results of the test. Horses with negative at a specified location until notified of the results of the test. Horses with negative test results may move in normal trade channels. Owners of horses that react to the test shall comply with Regulation .02 of this chapter, pertaining to quarantine. Maryland licensed equine slaughter buyers may move horses tested with pending results directly to an approved equine slaughter facility immediately after the sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The State Veterinarian may grant exceptions to the requirements under §§D and E of this regulation as the circumstances warrant, if they are not in variance with other rules and regulations governing the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Exemptions. Slaughter equines purchased in Maryland or in another state by Maryland licensed livestock dealers and assembled in Maryland before shipment to an approved market or slaughter establishment are exempt from testing requirements. This exemption shall apply only to properly identified equines that are kept separate and apart from other equines on a premises previously approved by the Secretary and are not held over 15 days before shipment. The type identification used shall be approved or specified by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Retest of Reactors. A horse reported as a reactor on an initial test may be retested one time by a State or federal veterinarian before affixing a permanent identification on the animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Quarantine of Exposed Animals. If the reactor shows clinical evidence of equine infectious anemia or an epidemiological investigation so indicates, all horses on the premises where the clinical reactor is found will be quarantined and movement allowed only after a negative test. During the period when biting insects are present, a second negative test will be required in not less than 60 days from the date of the removal of the reactor from the quarantined premises.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Cost of Tests. As to tests made in Department laboratories, a charge of $5 will be paid to the Department for each official test sample received. Samples will be run only when submitted by an accredited veterinarian. The accredited veterinarian shall be responsible for the laboratory fee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Violation of Regulations."> <text>Any person, firm, or corporation which violates these regulations is subject to the penalties provided for in the Agriculture Article, §§12-101, 12-102, and 12-103, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: December 11, 1974 (1:5 Md. R. 243)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01F amended effective November 11, 2002 (29:22 Md. R. 1722)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02D amended effective October 29, 1975 (2:24 Md. R. 1483); November 11, 2002 (29:22 Md. R. 1722)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective April 30, 1975 (2:9 Md. R. 678); October 29, 1975 (2:24 Md. R. 1483); April 28, 1976 (3:9 Md. R. 487); January 19, 1977 (4:2 Md. R. 89); November 11, 2002 (29:22 Md. R. 1722)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03H amended effective March 9, 1979 (6:5 Md. R. 446)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="13" heading="License Required to Feed Garbage to Swine When Garbage is Heat-Treated at its Source"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Authority."> <text>The authority for these regulations is contained in the Agriculture Article, §3-404 and 3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="License."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The license required under Agriculture Article, §404(a)(2) is on a July to June 30 basis and shall be renewed on or before each July 1.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A license may not be issued for garbage feeding where prohibited by other law or regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Application for License."> <text>An application on forms prepared by the Maryland Department of Agriculture together with the license fee and preliminary plans of any new cooking equipment shall be submitted to the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Animal Health Section.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Heat-Treating Equipment and its Use."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Heating equipment shall be of a design and capacity that will enable it to bring food waste material to 212 degrees F throughout within a reasonable length of time. Occasional stirring of the garbage is required during the heating period to insure a uniform temperature. Garbage shall be held at a temperature of 212 degrees F for at least 30 minutes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The cooking container shall be equipped with a recording thermometer with one pen and one probe for each 8 feet, or portion thereof, of its length.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Proposed plans for all new cooking equipment shall be approved by the Department before construction or installation is started.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Cooking equipment shall be cleaned after each use.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Records and Inspection."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Using the recording thermometer, the licensee shall make a record of the temperatures of each load of garbage cooked.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The licensee shall retain these records for at least 6 months for inspection by the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§3-404 and 3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 30, 1975 (2:9 Md. R. 678)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="14" heading="Requirements for Livestock or Animal Exhibitions"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter describes the animal health requirements for any livestock or animal exhibition for the purpose of preventing the spread of a contagious or infectious disease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This chapter also includes requirements concerning the proper care and treatment of animals at exhibitions.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter does not apply to livestock exhibition activities regulated by the Maryland Racing Commission.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Accredited herd” means a livestock herd meeting the U.S. Department of Agriculture testing requirements for tuberculosis under 9 CFR §77.1.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Accredited veterinarian” means a veterinarian approved to participate in a federal—state animal health program by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Exhibition” means any livestock show, except a show conducted for the sole purpose of selling the livestock exhibited.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Exhibitor.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Exhibitor” means a person 18 years old or older who owns or presents livestock for exhibition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Exhibitor” includes a parent or guardian of a minor child exhibiting livestock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Interstate certificate of veterinary inspection” means a form provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is issued by an accredited veterinarian in the state where the livestock originated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is valid for 30 days from the date of issue; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Documents a veterinary inspection which certifies that livestock is fit for transport and for exhibition.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Intrastate certificate of veterinary inspection” means a form provided by the Department that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is issued by an accredited veterinarian in Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is valid for the exhibition season in the calendar year it is issued unless otherwise directed by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Documents a veterinary inspection which certifies that livestock originating in Maryland is fit for exhibition in this State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Livestock” includes the following animal species:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Bovine (cattle);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Camelid (llama, alpaca, vicuna and guanaco);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Caprine (goat);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Cervid (deer);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Equine (horse, donkey, and mule);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Ovine (sheep);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Porcine (pig); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Lagomorpha (rabbit and hare).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Person” includes the State, any county, municipal corporation, an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Petting zoo” means an exhibition where the public is encouraged to touch any livestock or other animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Sponsor” means the person responsible for organizing the livestock exhibition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Veterinarian” means an individual who is licensed, registered or otherwise permitted to lawfully practice veterinary medicine in Maryland, any of the several states, U.S. territories, the District of Columbia, or any appropriate political entity as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="General Exhibition Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Prohibition.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person may not conduct a livestock exhibition or exhibit livestock without first complying with the requirements of this chapter for the prevention of contagious or infectious disease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person may not enter or show livestock at any exhibition if the livestock has a contagious or infectious disease.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Ringworm. A person may exhibit livestock showing signs of ringworm only if the exhibitor possesses a certificate from a veterinarian stating that the affected livestock:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has been under appropriate ringworm treatment by that veterinarian for at least 21 days before entering the exhibition site; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is no longer contagious to other animals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Rabies Vaccination. A person may not show livestock at any petting zoo unless all exhibited animals in the petting zoo, 105 days or older, are vaccinated against rabies as provided in COMAR 10.06.02, unless there is no rabies vaccine licensed and approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for that animal species.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Sponsor Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each livestock exhibition sponsor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide the Department at least 60 days advanced written notice of the date, time, and location of any livestock exhibition, unless:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The exhibition is a Maryland fair and show board funded event; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The exhibition sponsor is exempt from this requirement as determined by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Do one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Report to the Department any animal from the exhibition suspected of having or showing obvious, apparent, or known signs of a contagious or infectious disease; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Exclude from the exhibition premises any animal having obvious, apparent, or known signs of a contagious or infectious disease.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Exemptions under §A(1)(b) of this regulation may be granted if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The exhibition is sponsored, sanctioned, or otherwise approved by an association, coalition, or other entity which serves as an umbrella organization for multiple livestock exhibitions in a calendar year; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That organization provides adequate and timely notice of subordinate exhibitions to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Exhibitor Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements. Each livestock exhibitor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Have all livestock examined by an accredited veterinarian before the exhibition as prescribed by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Except as provided in §B of this regulation, keep a copy of a valid interstate or intrastate certificate of veterinary inspection with each animal at all times during the exhibition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Do all of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Personally examine all livestock for any signs of contagious or infectious disease prior to entry to the exhibition site but not more than 24 hours before entry to the exhibition site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Document the examination with a properly completed Departmental livestock exhibition self-certification form for animal health;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Present for exhibition only animals that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Have not been exposed to contagious or infectious diseases; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Appear by the pre-exhibition examination conducted by the exhibitor to be free from infectious or contagious disease; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Maintain a copy of the completed self-certification form with the livestock during the exhibition;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Individually identify each animal by ear tag, tattoo, registration number, national animal identification system device, or other means approved by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Make all records required by this chapter available to the Department or sponsor upon request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Report animals suspected of having a contagious or infectious disease to the sponsor; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Allow the Department to examine or test any livestock for a contagious or infectious disease.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Required vaccinations and testing shall be documented by the accredited veterinarian on the certificate of veterinary inspection or other required health documents when appropriate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Exhibitors of horses shall substitute a valid official report documenting freedom from equine infectious anemia.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Special Exhibitor Requirements for Certain Livestock. Each livestock exhibitor shall ensure that the health requirements in §§E—K of this regulation are met before any exhibition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Bovine (Cattle).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All cattle 6 months or older, including castrates, shall meet:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The tuberculosis control requirements under both COMAR 15.11.01.04 and 9 CFR 77; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Brucellosis control requirements under both COMAR 15.11.02 and 9 CFR 78.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All cattle shall be vaccinated in a manner prescribed by the Department against bovine respiratory disease complex. The vaccine shall be administered in a manner adequate to confer protective immunity against these diseases for the duration of the exhibition.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Porcine (Pigs). All pigs, except castrates, 6 months old or older, shall meet the Brucellosis control requirements of COMAR 15.11.06 and 9 CFR 78.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Ovine (Sheep).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All sheep shall meet the scrapie in sheep requirements under COMAR 15.11.18 and 9 CFR 79.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The exhibitor shall have a certificate of veterinary inspection for all sheep, including lambs, clearly stating that the entire flock has been inspected and found free of evidence of all contagious or infectious diseases.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Each certificate shall include the scrapie premise identification number and each individual scrapie identification number.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Caprine (Goat).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All goats 6 months or older shall meet the tuberculosis and brucellosis control requirements of COMAR 15.11.01.06.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All goats shall meet the scrapie in goat requirements under both COMAR 15.11.18 and 9 CFR 79. The exhibitor shall have a certificate of veterinary inspection for all goats, indicating that the entire flock has been inspected and found to be free of evidence of all contagious or infectious diseases. Each certificate shall include the scrapie premise identification number and the individual scrapie identification number as required by both COMAR 15.11.18.03 and 9 CFR §79.5.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Equine (Horse).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The exhibitor shall ensure that each horse exhibited meets all requirements including testing for equine infectious anemia under COMAR 15.11.12. Horses originating in Maryland are exempt from requirements pertaining to a certificate of veterinary inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The exhibitor shall keep a copy of a valid official result for the test (Coggins) to determine the horse is free from equine infectious anemia with each animal at all times during the exhibition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The exhibitor shall comply with horse transport requirements under Agriculture Article, §3-902, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Camelids (Llama, Alpaca, Vicuna, and Guanaco). All Camelids, including castrates, 6 months or older, shall meet at least one of the following requirements to be eligible for exhibition:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Originate directly from a herd in Maryland not under restriction or quarantine for tuberculosis and from which all animals have tested negative for tuberculosis within the past 12 months; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Have a negative individual Tuberculin test documented within 60 days of exhibition.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Lagomorpha (Rabbits, Hares). All rabbits presented for exhibition shall meet the conditions described under general requirements for exhibitors.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Prohibited Conduct."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may not knowingly expose livestock to an animal with a contagious or infectious disease, or expose a healthy animal to a contagious or infectious disease in violation of Agriculture Article, §3-110, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may not willfully make false statements, provide false information, alter or possess an altered animal health certificate or report, or alter, damage, use, or attempt to use any animal or premise identification device or document in violation of Agriculture Article, §3-118, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person may not knowingly conceal the fact that a contagious or infectious disease exists on his premises in violation of Agriculture Article, §3-113 (b), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person may not knowingly conceal signs of a contagious or infectious disease, to include giving anti-inflammatory drugs to mask fever and discharges, appling coloring or creams to lesions, or employ any other method that may be used to alter or disguise signs of contagious or infectious disease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A person may not give away a live animal as a prize for, or inducement to enter, a contest, game, or other competition except as an agricultural project, conservation purpose, or for slaughter, without the approval of the Secretary of Agriculture in violation of Criminal Law Article, §10-610, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Penalties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Criminal Penalties.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>General. A person who violates the provisions of this chapter, except regarding animals given as a prize, is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to the penalties provided in Agriculture Article, §§12-101 and 12-102, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Animal Given as a Prize. A person who violates the provisions of Regulation .07E of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $500 as provided in the Criminal Law Article, §10-610, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Administrative Penalties.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>General. In lieu of or in addition to being subject to criminal sanctions, a person who violates the provisions of this chapter, except regarding animals given as a prize and unlawful horse transport, is subject to administrative penalties up to $10,000, as provided in COMAR 15.11.19.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Unlawful Horse Transport. In lieu of or in addition to being subject to criminal sanctions, a person who violates the provisions of Regulation .06B(5)(c) of this chapter is subject to administrative penalties up to $1,000 per horse as provided in Agriculture Article, §3-903, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103 and 3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 9, 1975 (2:5 Md. R. 1078)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.05 repealed and new Regulations .01—.08 adopted effective July 17, 2008 (35:14 Md. R. 1246)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="15" heading="The Control and Eradication of Pseudorabies in Swine and Other Livestock Within Maryland"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Pseudorabies”, also known as “mad itch” or Aujeszky's Disease, is an infectious disease caused by a herpes virus to which several species of mammals and birds are susceptible, the clinical signs and symptoms of which are characterized by central nervous system disturbance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Reporting Pseudorabies Outbreaks."> <text>Any person having knowledge or suspicion of the existence of pseudorabies shall report this to the Department within 48 hours.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Quarantine of Infected Herds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any herd which the Secretary has reason to believe is infected with or has been exposed to pseudorabies shall be quarantined and no livestock may be moved from or to a quarantined herd without written permission of the Secretary. The quarantine will be lifted when tests and examinations, as the Secretary may require, indicate that the herd is not infected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the Secretary permits swine to be moved from a quarantined herd to a quarantined feedlot, those swine shall be identified individually by a method approved by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Pseudorabies Vaccines."> <text>The use of pseudorabies vaccine in swine is subject to the following restrictions:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The vaccine shall be a USDA licensed vaccine or vaccine that is authorized for field trials by federal and State officials.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Prior approval for use or possession of the vaccine shall be obtained in writing from the Department. This approval will be granted only for use in swine herds determined to be infected or threatened with infection by pseudorabies.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>At the time of vaccination, all swine shall be individually identified by a method approved by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Disinfection of Infected Premises."> <text>Infected premises and all vehicles and equipment used in connection with an infected premises shall be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected in a manner approved by the Department.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 6, 1978 (5:20 Md. R. 1500)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="16" heading="Animals Whose Importation, Sale, or Possession are Prohibited or Restricted in Maryland"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="List of Prohibited Animals."> <text>The following animals have been determined to be harmful to livestock or poultry and, therefore, an individual is prohibited from transporting, importing, selling, transferring, or possessing them in this State:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Feral swine of the Genus/species Sus scrofa, also known as wild pigs, European wild boars, Russian wild boars; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The offspring of the feral swine of the Genus/species Sus scrofa.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-115, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 6, 1992 (19:13 Md. R. 1203)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="17" heading="Humane Treatment of Livestock, Including 3-D Livestock, at Auction Markets"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>This chapter governs the humane treatment of livestock, including 3-D livestock, by market operators and haulers at auction markets.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Downers.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Downers” means livestock that are down and unable to rise even with assistance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Downers” includes livestock which, after being assisted to rise, cannot stand and walk without assistance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Livestock” means cattle, swine, sheep, horses, asses, mules, or goats.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Livestock market” means an established location where livestock are offered for sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Humane treatment” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Treating livestock in a manner that avoids unnecessary suffering or pain; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Providing livestock, when necessary, with adequate feed, water, veterinary care, and shelter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Slaughter establishment” means an establishment regulated by the Food Safety Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, or by a corresponding agency in those states which conduct meat inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>"3-D livestock" means livestock that are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Downers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Debilitated; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Diseased.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Responsibility of Livestock Market Operators."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An operator of a livestock market:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Shall provide humane treatment of livestock in its custody;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>May not accept downers for sale at its market;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In the case of livestock that become downers after acceptance for sale at the market, shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Provide the needed equipment for handling, moving, and, if necessary, euthanizing these animals,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Identify and mark the livestock in a distinctive manner,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Separate and separately pen the livestock from healthy animals, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Notify the Department that an animal has become a downer; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Shall properly dispose of all animals that die or are euthanized after acceptance into the market.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The operator of a livestock market is permitted to offer or sell 3-D livestock only to a slaughtering establishment for immediate slaughter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>At the close of a livestock sale, if any downers remain unsold, the market operator immediately shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Euthanize the livestock as provided under 9 CFR 313; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Place them in the care of a licensed veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Responsibility of Persons Transporting Livestock."> <text>A person transporting downers from an auction market shall either:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If transporting downers with healthy animals, segregate them from the healthy animals, using a rigid barrier; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Transport downers in a separate vehicle from that used for healthy animals.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§3-101, 3-307, and 4-122, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: August 15, 1994 (21:16 Md. R. 1390)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="18" heading="Requirements for Sheep and Goats for the Eradication of Scrapie"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to explain State animal health requirements for sheep and goats entering or moving within Maryland to prevent the introduction or spread of scrapie, a fatal, degenerative disease. The control and prevention of this disease is a joint effort by the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The requirements of this chapter qualify Maryland to be classified as a scrapie consistent state under 9 CFR, Part 79. Scrapie consistent status not only enhances the well-being of the State’s sheep and goat industry by protecting against scrapie but also helps ensure the most favorable treatment possible for Maryland sheep and goat producers in any market. Sheep and goat producers electing to participate in the U.S. Scrapie Flock Certification Program shall follow the requirements for certification found in 9 CFR, Part 54 and 79.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Animal” means a sheep or a goat.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Administrator” means an employee of USDA, APHIS-VS, authorized to administer the National Scrapie Eradication Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“APHIS-VS” means the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services unit of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Approved tagging site” means a site approved by the Department or APHIS-VS that tags and records all animals according to 9 CFR 86, the Animal Disease Traceability Rule.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“DSE” means a designated scrapie epidemiologist with knowledge of scrapie who is selected by the Administrator and the Department to coordinate and evaluate the scrapie eradication program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Exposed animal” means an animal that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Has been in a flock or an enclosure off the premises of the flock with a scrapie positive animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Resides in a noncompliant flock; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has resided on the premises of a flock before or while it was designated an infected or source flock and before a flock plan was completed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“High risk animal” means any one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A genetically susceptible exposed animal including embryos;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A female offspring of a scrapie positive female animal including embryos;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A suspect animal; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any animal including embryos that the Administrator determines to be high risk based on the epidemiology of the flock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Immediate Slaughter” means a process whereby a goat or sheep is sold or transferred for slaughter and is moved with an owner-hauler statement to a restricted slaughter facility for processing within 72 hours of a sale or transfer or entry into Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Interstate Certificate of Veterinary Inspection” or “ICVI” means a certificate for interstate movement of animals completed by an issuing veterinarian, or a State or federal veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Issuing Veterinarian” means an accredited veterinarian approved by the Department and APHIS-VS to issue an ICVI.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Low risk exposed animal” means any one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The animal was exposed to a positive animal that was not born in the flock and did not lamb in the flock or lamb in an enclosure where the exposed animal resided;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The exposed animal is male and was not born in the infected or source flock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The exposed animal is a castrated male; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The exposed animal, as determined by the Administrator and State representative, is unlikely to be infected with scrapie.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Official identification” means an identification mark or device approved by the Department and APHIS-VS that identifies an animal and is used in accordance with APHIS-VS program standards, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A U.S. Department of Agriculture approved scrapie ear tag, provided that the tag is placed:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>In the animal’s ear (left ear recommended); or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>If the animal is earless and moving for immediate slaughter or to a terminal feedlot as defined in 9 CFR 79, on a durable neck strap placed around the animal’s neck;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An electronic implanted device as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under 9 CFR §79.2; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Legible registry tattoos issued by a registry that has agreed to cooperate with APHIS-VS in tracing scrapie positive, suspect, and exposed animals, provided the tattoo is placed:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>In the animal’s ears in the location required by the registry; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>If the animal is earless, on the animal’s tail web.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Owner” means the owner of the flock of origin or an agent of the owner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Owner-hauler statement” or “owner-shipper statement” means a document that is generated by the owner, signed by the owner or hauler, documenting an animal’s movement to an approved tagging site or a restricted livestock facility approved by the Department, and that, at a minimum, includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name, address, and telephone number of the owner and, if different, the hauler;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The address and scrapie flock identification number of the flock of origin;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The name and address of the destination of the shipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A description of the species, breed, number, sex, and age of the animals shipped;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A complete listing of all animals by official identification; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The date of the shipment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Restricted livestock facility” means an auction market approved by the Department that maintains animals to be sold or transferred for immediate slaughter in separate enclosures from other animals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Scrapie” means a fatal degenerative disease, classified as transmissible spongiform encephalopathy, affecting the central nervous system of sheep and goats.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Scrapie consistent state” means a state that meets the scrapie control requirements provided in 9 CFR §79.6.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Scrapie exposed flock” means a flock:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>That the DSE has designated as:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>An infected flock; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A source flock that has completed a flock plan and has retained a female genetically susceptible exposed animal;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>That is under investigation and:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Has retained a female genetically susceptible exposed animal or suspect animal; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Whose owner declines genotyping and live-animal or post-mortem scrapie testing required by APHIS-VS or the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For which a Post Exposure Monitoring and Management Plan is required by APHIS-VS or the Department that is not in compliance with the conditions of that plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Scrapie positive animal” means an animal that is diagnosed with scrapie by an authorized laboratory approved by APHIS-VS.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Scrapie suspect animal” means an animal suspected of having scrapie by an accredited veterinarian, the Department, or a veterinary medical officer of USDA.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Waybill” means a document from an approved tagging site, a restricted livestock facility, or a licensed livestock dealer that documents an animal’s sale from such location to a farm, an authorized slaughter facility, or other location approved by the Department, and that, at a minimum, includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name, address, and telephone number of the issuing party;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The date of sale and the date of movement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The name and address of the destination of the animal shipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A description of the species, breed, age, sex, and number; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A complete listing of the individual official identification of each animal, which may include any use of glue-on back tags for animals destined for slaughter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Official Identification Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided by §B of this regulation, for any animal entering or moving within Maryland, an animal owner shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Ensure that the animal has an official identification; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Keep and maintain a record of each animal’s official identification for 5 years in a manner that will allow the Department to trace the animal to its flock of origin or a new owner, if sold or transferred.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Exceptions to Official Identification Requirement. The official identification requirements of this regulation do not apply for an animal:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That never leaves the premise of birth and has not commingled with animals originating outside the premise of birth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Less than 18 months of age that has not lambed, is not pregnant, and is moving for immediate slaughter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Born in or entering Maryland and moving directly for sale to an approved tagging site, provided the animal is accompanied with an owner-hauler statement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Requirements for Sheep and Goats Entering Maryland."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except for an animal moving to immediate slaughter, a person may not import an animal into Maryland unless the animal originates from a flock in a scrapie consistent state or from a flock enrolled in the Scrapie Flock Certification Program as defined by 9 CFR 54.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Exposed Animals. A person may not move a high or low risk exposed animal into Maryland without the Department’s written approval.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>ICVI Requirement.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except as provided by §B of this regulation, for any animal entering Maryland, the hauler or person responsible for the animal shall ensure that each animal is accompanied with an ICVI.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The owner shall provide the issuing veterinarian the following information for completing the ICVI:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Complete addresses of the flock or premise of origin and destination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The species, breed, sex, and official scrapie identification of each animal; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Any document certifying the scrapie status of the flock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The issuing veterinarian shall include the following information in the ICVI:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The date of inspection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The date that the ICVI is issued;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The scrapie premise or flock identification number or numbers; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Any other statement pertaining to the scrapie status of the flock if required under 9 CFR §§79.3 and 79.5, certifying the known scrapie status of the flock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>After completing the ICVI, the issuing veterinarian shall forward a copy to the chief animal health official of the state of destination within 7 days of issuance and keep a copy of it for a minimum of 5 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>An ICVI is invalid 30 days after issuance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Exceptions to ICVI Requirement. An ICVI is not required for an animal moving into this State for immediate slaughter, provided that the animal is accompanied with an owner-hauler statement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Requirements for Moving Sheep and Goats within Maryland."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in Regulation .03B, an owner or hauler may move an animal within Maryland only if the animal is officially identified.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When an animal is moved within Maryland, the seller and new owner shall keep a record of the transaction for a minimum of 5 years on an owner-hauler statement or other document approved by the Department that provides for traceability as required by 9 CFR 86.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>When an owner or hauler moves an animal within Maryland to an approved tagging site, the owner or hauler shall ensure that the animal is accompanied with a properly completed owner-hauler statement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>When an owner or hauler moves an animal within Maryland from an approved tagging site or a restricted livestock facility to a farm in Maryland, the owner or hauler shall ensure that the animal is officially identified and accompanied with a waybill.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Requirements for Moving Sheep and Goats for Immediate Slaughter."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When selling or transferring animals for immediate slaughter:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The owner shall note on the owner-hauler statement or waybill that the animal is being sold for “immediate slaughter only”; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The owner, dealer, market operator, or hauler shall insure that the animal is delivered to the slaughter facility for processing within 72 hours of the animal’s sale or transfer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may not remove an animal from immediate slaughter:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Without an ICVI or other document approved by the Department that has been signed by a State or federal official; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If prohibited by 9 CFR 79.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Animals in slaughter channels as defined by 9 CFR 79 may only be removed from slaughter channels as provided in 9 CFR 79.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Movement of High Risk Animal or Low Risk Exposed Animals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department with the concurrence of the Administrator may redesignate high risk exposed animals as low risk exposed animals based on either the scrapie type involved or the epidemiology of the flock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may not move any of the following high risk exposed animals into or within Maryland without prior written approval from the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An animal that originates from a state that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is not a scrapie consistent state as provided in 9 CFR §79.6, as determined by APHIS-VS; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Originates from any flock or area under any animal movement restriction resulting from the presence or suspected presence of scrapie infection;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A sexually intact, genetically susceptible exposed animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An animal that is scrapie suspect or scrapie positive; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An animal that is considered to be a high risk animal for scrapie as determined by the Department, by APHIS-VS, or by the chief animal health official of any state, any territory, or the District of Columbia, or any other official of a political subdivision recognized by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Reporting Scrapie-Tested, Scrapie-Suspect, or Scrapie-Positive Animals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If a clinically suspicious animal or test suspect is found, the flock owner or flock veterinarian is responsible for notifying the Department or the district office of APHIS-VS within 24 hours.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The accredited veterinarian or APHIS-VS authorized laboratory that conducts a scrapie test is responsible for notifying the Department of the test results within 24 hours when a test-positive scrapie animal is found. The Department shall immediately notify the district APHIS-VS office of the positive finding.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Management of Scrapie Suspect or Scrapie Positive Animals and Their Flocks."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If a clinical or other scrapie suspect animal is reported by an owner, a veterinarian, or any other person, the following action shall be taken:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall place the scrapie suspect animal and the flock under a hold order until the actual status of the animal is determined;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A State or federal animal health official shall officially identify the suspect animal and the entire flock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The owner of the animal shall allow the Department to collect and submit tissues for diagnostic testing and scrapie genetic susceptibility testing from all animals in the flock to an authorized laboratory to conduct scrapie testing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If the suspect animal is euthanized or dies, the Department shall ensure that appropriate tissues are collected for scrapie testing and that the carcass is completely destroyed by one of the following means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Proper disposal by the owner on the owner’s premises; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Disposal of the carcass by the owner at a Department-approved facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When a scrapie positive animal is identified by an official test, the following action shall be taken:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall place the scrapie positive animal and the flock under a hold order or other appropriate restriction until:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An epidemiologic investigation is complete and the status of each animal in the flock is determined;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The high risk animals die or are euthanized or removed to an approved research facility; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The lambing or kidding areas are cleaned and disinfected;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A DSE, or any other appropriate official designated by the Department and APHIS-VS, shall conduct the epidemiologic investigation for scrapie;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A State or federal animal health official shall officially identify the positive animal and entire flock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The owner of the animal shall allow a State or federal animal health official to collect and submit tissues for diagnostic testing from all animals in the flock to a laboratory authorized by APHIS-VS to conduct scrapie testing or scrapie genetic susceptibility testing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>If an animal is euthanized or dies, the Department shall ensure that appropriate tissues are collected for scrapie testing and that the carcass is completely destroyed by one of the following means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Proper disposal by the owner on the owner’s premises; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Disposal of the carcass by the owner at a Department-approved facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Management of Flocks that Have Received Exposed or High Risk Animals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When a flock of sheep or goats is determined by State or federal animal health official to have received a scrapie exposed or high risk animal, the following steps shall be taken:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The flock owner shall be contacted by a State or federal veterinary medical officer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The State or federal animal health officer shall place the scrapie exposed or high risk animal and the entire flock under a hold order until the status of the flock is determined;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A State or federal animal health official shall officially identify the exposed or high risk animal and the entire flock; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A DSE or a designated veterinary medical officer of the Department or APHIS-VS shall determine the status of animals within the flock by identifying the high risk and exposed animals and restricting the movement of any animal that is determined to be high risk.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The flock owner shall allow a State or federal animal health official to officially identify the animals and to collect and submit animal tissues for diagnostic testing from all animals in the flock to a laboratory authorized by APHIS-VS to conduct scrapie testing or scrapie genetic susceptibility testing. The owner shall report immediately to a State or federal animal health official if an exposed or high risk animal dies or is in danger of dying.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If an animal in the flock is euthanized or dies, the appropriate State or APHIS-VS official shall ensure that appropriate tissues are collected for scrapie testing and that the carcass is completely destroyed by one of the following means:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Proper disposal by the owner on the owner’s premises; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A disposal of the carcass by the owner at a Department-approved facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="APHIS-VS Requirements."> <text>In addition to the requirements of this chapter, the owner of a sheep or goat shall comply with APHIS-VS requirements as provided by 9 CFR, Parts 54 and 79.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Noncompliance."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who violates this chapter is subject to an administrative fine up to $10,000 as provided in COMAR 15.11.19.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In addition to any administrative penalty, any person who violates this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to fine or imprisonment as provided by Agriculture Article, §§12-101 and 12-102, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§3-101, 3-105, 3-108, 3-116, and 12-103, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 26, 2005 (32:19 Md. R. 1588)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.08, under Eradication of Scrapie in Maryland, repealed and new Regulations .01—.12, under Requirements for Sheep and Goats for the Eradication of Scrapie, adopted effective July 4, 2016 (43:13 Md. R. 713)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="19" heading="Administrative Penalty Standards for Violations of Contagious or Infectious Disease Prevention Requirements"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes standards for determining the appropriate penalty to be imposed on a person who violates a provision of Agriculture Article, Title 3, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definition."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Disease” means a contagious or infectious disease affecting domestic animals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee, including the State Veterinarian and staff.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Violations."> <text>Instead of or in addition to any other penalty allowed under State law, the Secretary may impose an administrative penalty on a person who violates any provision of Agriculture Article, Title 3, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland, including, but not limited to, the following acts:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Resisting or failing to comply with a quarantine established by the Governor, based on facts presented by the Secretary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Resisting or failing to comply with a quarantine established by the Secretary to protect domestic animals against disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Resisting or failing to comply with any order by the Secretary to prevent or to control the communication or spread of disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Resisting or failing to cooperate with the Secretary when the Secretary carries out any duty to prevent or to control the spread of disease;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Refusing access to the premises or failing to allow the Secretary to inspect any location where the Secretary has reason to believe that disease may exist;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Failing to comply with any regulation adopted by the Secretary pursuant to Agriculture Article, Title 3, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Concealing the fact that disease exists on the premises; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Selling or otherwise disposing of an animal that the person has reason to believe is infected with a disease, or exposed to one within 90 days, or, without the Secretary's consent, permitting the animal to pass over any public highway, lane, or alley, or to graze any unfenced lot or piece of ground.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Assessment of Administrative Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After providing notice and an opportunity to be heard, the Secretary may assess an administrative penalty, not to exceed $10,000, for each act that constitutes a violation of Agriculture Article, Title 3, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland, including, but not limited to, any of the separate acts specified in Regulation .03 of this chapter. If the Secretary finds that the person has committed multiple violations of this subtitle, the Secretary, considering the factors specified in §B of this regulation, may assess a separate civil penalty up to $10,000 for each violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In assessing a civil penalty imposed under §A, the Secretary shall give consideration to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The seriousness of the violation, including the nature and degree of the potential harm to animal health;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator, but not corrected or otherwise addressed in a timely and adequate manner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The extent to which the violator had exercised reasonable care to have prevented the violation from occurring in the first instance;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The actual harm to animal health;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The cost of control;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The extent to which the particular violation is part of a recurrent pattern of the same or similar type of violation committed by the violator; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Whether the violator previously has violated any provision of Agriculture Article, Title 3, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person may appeal under Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Secretary's decision to impose a penalty.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Unless a stay has been granted, a person against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this chapter shall pay the amount of the penalty promptly to the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §3-116, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.04 adopted as an emergency provision effective August 25, 2006 (33:19 Md. R. 1555); emergency status expired February 21, 2007</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.04 adopted effective February 26, 2007 (34:4 Md. R. 402)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="12" heading="Maryland Agricultural Fair Board"> <chapter num="01" heading="Regulations for Fairs and Shows"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations provide qualifications and guidelines for the allocation of Maryland Agricultural Fair Board funds to agricultural organizations or youth groups.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Activity” means an exhibition of agricultural products and events for the purpose of education and promotion, for example, fairs, field days, community shows, exhibits, youth contests.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Agricultural youth group” means an organization that educates youth in the production and promotion of food and fiber, for example, 4-H, FFA, FHA.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Board” means the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board, a unit of the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Competitive department” means a category of agricultural or homemaking products or activities in which one entry is compared against another or a set of established standards to determine quality.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>“Premium” means a prize awarded in a competitive department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Application."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board only shall give financial assistance to an agricultural youth group or an organization sponsoring an agricultural activity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Procedure. An applicant shall submit the following to the Board:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An application on forms provided by the Board at least 1 month in advance of the Board's announced allocation meeting;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A financial statement of the activity for the previous year, if any; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An overview of significant changes from the previous year's activity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Board Evaluation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board shall decide whether to approve a qualified applicant's application for funding based upon the proposed activity's ability to meet the following criteria:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Ability to meet community needs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Degree of agricultural promotion;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Financial need;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Growth and improvement of activity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Involvement of community;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Organizational quality of activity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Quality of display;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Size and scope of activity; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Strength and depth of management.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the Board approves an application for funding, it shall notify the applicant of the allocation. The applicant shall enter into an agreement with the Board.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Funding Conditions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The agreement shall include a list of requirements which a successful applicant shall perform to receive Board funding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>These requirements include the following submissions to the Board:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A list of its officers or committee leaders. The list shall include names, addresses, and telephone numbers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A list of judges for all livestock shows at least 15 days in advance of the activity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A final activity report within 45 days after the final day of the activity unless otherwise directed by the Board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A draft, copy, or original current fair or show catalog listing premiums and a schedule of events in advance of the activity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Special Conditions for Livestock Shows.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Livestock shall meet health requirements of the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Judges in dairy, beef, sheep, swine, and dairy goats shall be selected from the current Maryland Official Judges List, compiled by the Board, or receive approval of the appropriate Maryland livestock association before any show.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Checking Registration and Identification.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>In a purebred livestock show, the applicant shall check the registration papers for exhibit ownership and class qualification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In a non-purebred livestock show, the applicant shall check for appropriate identification to determine exhibit ownership and class qualification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The applicant shall use funds received from the Board only for the payment of premiums, ribbons, and trophies in competitive departments unless otherwise authorized by the Board. Premium money is to be awarded on quality exhibits only.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>An organization shall pay all premiums won by qualified exhibitors within 30 days after the final day of the activity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An organization or activity that conducts a livestock sale shall comply with the requirements of the Maryland Weights and Measures Law of the Agriculture Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Allocation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Before an exhibition, the Board may advance a portion of the allocation to the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After the exhibition, the applicant shall submit a final report of the expenditures. This report is subject to audit by the Department. Upon approval of the report, the Board shall authorize payment of the approved allocation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Non-Compliance."> <text>If a person violates these regulations, the Board may deny a current or future fund allocation.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §10-303(b), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November 15, 1971</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended effective January 25, 1980 (7:2 Md. R. 117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A adopted effective January 25, 1980 (7:2 Md. R. 117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01--.07 repealed and new Regulations .01--.07 adopted effective February 27, 1984 (11:4 Md. R. 318)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A amended effective October 3, 1988 (15:20 Md. R. 2335)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05E adopted effective April 6, 1986 (13:7 Md. R. 795)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="13" heading="State Tobacco Authority"> <chapter num="01" heading="Marketing of the Maryland Tobacco Crop" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January, 1974</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03, .04, .05, and .12 amended as an emergency provision effective February 18, 1982 (9:5 Md. R. 521); emergency status expired July 3, 1982 (Emergency provisions are temporary and not printed in COMAR)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B-1, B-2, J-1 adopted effective March 28, 1983 (10:6 Md. R. 559)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03J amended effective March 10, 1978 (5:5 Md. R. 326)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A, B amended effective April 14, 1976 (3:8 Md. R. 427); April 13, 1977 (4:8 Md. R. 645); and March 10, 1978 (5:5 Md. R. 326)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A—C amended effective April 16, 1975 (2:8 Md. R. 566)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04H amended effective March 28, 1983 (10:6 Md. R. 559); March 12, 1984 (11:5 Md. R. 463)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04H amended as an emergency provision effective January 1, 2001 (28:3 Md. R. 204); emergency status extended at 28:11 Md. R. 1052; amended permanently effective August 20, 2001 (28:16 Md. R. 1484)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04Q adopted effective March 17, 1976 (3:6 Md. R. 358) and amended effective March 10, 1978 (5:5 Md. R. 326); repealed effective March 28, 1983 (10:6 Md. R. 559)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective March 28, 1983 (10:6 Md. R. 559)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05G amended effective March 12, 1984 (11:5 Md. R. 463)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective August 8, 1988 (15:16 Md. R. 1917)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11F amended effective February 24, 1986 (13:4 Md. R. 397)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12A amended effective March 28, 1983 (10:6 Md. R. 559)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12E adopted effective March 28, 1983 (10:6 Md. R. 559)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13D adopted effective March 17, 1976 (3:6 Md. R. 358)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13D amended effective March 10, 1978 (5:5 Md. R. 326)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.13 repealed effective September 3, 2012 (39:17 Md. R. 1149)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Daily Sales Quotas" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.04 adopted as an emergency provision effective</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">March 31, 1981 (8:8 Md. R. 717); emergency status expired August 15, 1981</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.05 adopted as an emergency provision effective</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">February 18, 1982 (9:5 Md. R. 523); emergency status expired July 3,</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">1982 (Emergency provisions are temporary and not printed in COMAR)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.05 adopted effective March 28, 1983 (10:6 Md. R. 560)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended and .05C and D adopted as an emergency provision</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">effective April 1, 1987 (14:9 Md. R. 1078); emergency status expired</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">July 1, 1987 (Emergency provisions are temporary and not printed in COMAR)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended as an emergency provision effective March 3, 1995 (22:6 Md. R. 471); amended permanently effective July 3, 1995 (22:13 Md. R. 969)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 adopted as an emergency provision effective March 3, 1995 (22:6 Md. R. 471); adopted permanently effective July 3, 1995 (22:13 Md. R. 969)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.06 repealed effective September 3, 2012 (39:17 Md. R. 1149)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Civil Penalty Standards for Licensees" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.06 adopted as an emergency provision effective March 1, 2000 (27:5 Md. R. 578); emergency status expired July 1, 2000; adopted permanently effective July 24, 2000 (27:14 Md. R. 1344)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.06 repealed effective September 3, 2012 (39:17 Md. R. 1149)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="14" heading="Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners"> <chapter num="01" heading="Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics for the Practice of Veterinary Medicine in the State"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose and Authority."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to set forth standards of professional conduct and ethics for veterinarians and prescribe standards of practice of veterinary medicine in the State. The chapter also implements the laws of Maryland governing the practice of veterinary medicine in the State as set forth in the Agriculture Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, and is issued by the Board pursuant to that authority and approved by the Secretary in accordance with his authority in Title 2 of the Agriculture Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Application."> <text>This chapter shall apply to all veterinarians licensed and registered in the State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Controlled dangerous substance” means any drug, substance, or immediate precursor as listed in Criminal Law Article, §5-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Dispensing” means direct distribution of products by veterinarians to their clients for use in or on their animals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Federal legend drug” or “veterinary prescription drug” means a drug labeled with the statement “Caution: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“High-volume, low-cost spay/neuter facility” means a licensed facility:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Which is regularly used for the treatment of animals by a veterinary practitioner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Where the sterilization of dogs and cats is the primary function performed by a veterinarian licensed and registered by the Board; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Where the owner complies with the licensing and sanitation standards in COMAR 15.14.03 and 15.14.07.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Hospitalization” means the confinement of a patient in a veterinary hospital or mobile veterinary clinic for purposes of performing:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Diagnostics;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Therapy;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Monitoring; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Nursing care.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Prescribing” means transmitting an order that authorizes a licensed pharmacist or the equivalent to prepare and dispense specified pharmaceuticals to be used in or on animals in the manner directed by a veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Specialist” means an individual who has obtained certification from a specialty organization recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Surgery” means that both of the following exist:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A veterinarian treats a disease, injury, or deformity by manual or operative methods; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A veterinarian or registered veterinary technician administers an anesthetic, injectable sedative, or injectable tranquilizing agent to an animal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Veterinarian” means an individual who is licensed and registered as a veterinarian to practice in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Veterinary hospital” means a building or portion of a building which is regularly used for the treatment of animals by a veterinary practitioner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Veterinarian-client-patient relationship” means that all of the following conditions exist:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The veterinarian has assumed the responsibility for making clinical judgments regarding the health of the animal and the need for medical treatment, and the client has agreed to follow the veterinarian's instructions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The veterinarian has sufficient knowledge of the animal to initiate at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal because the veterinarian has recently seen and is personally acquainted with the keeping and care of the animal through either:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A physical examination; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Medically appropriate and timely visits to the location where the animal is kept; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The veterinarian is readily available or has arranged for emergency coverage or follow-up evaluation in the event of adverse reactions or the failure of the treatment regimen.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Professional Conduct."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The principal objectives of the veterinary profession are to render service to society, to conserve our livestock resources, and to relieve suffering of animals. A veterinarian shall act in relation to the public, the veterinarian's colleagues, and their patients, and the allied professions so as to merit their full confidence and respect. Examples of conduct which are prohibited by this standard include, but are not limited to, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Using a college degree to which the veterinarian is not entitled or any degree or title granted by an institution declared unworthy by contemporary institutions of its class;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Accepting a fee from the seller of an animal by a veterinarian employed by a buyer to inspect an animal for soundness which is prima facie evidence of fraud;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Guaranteeing a cure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Performing or participating in surgery if it is known the surgery was requested with intent to deceive a third party;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Promoting, selling, prescribing, or using any product, the ingredient formula of which has not been revealed to the veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Performing a surgical procedure to conceal or to correct genetic defects in animals to be shown, bred, or sold;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Making payments to any person for referring, attempting to refer, or promising to refer animals to that veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Accepting payments from any person for referring, attempting to refer, or promising to promote the sale of services, drugs, devices, appliances, or goods to a client so as to exploit the client for financial gain; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Prescribing or dispensing veterinary prescription drugs outside of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A veterinarian may not act in an unprofessional or immoral manner in the practice of veterinary medicine.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Choice and Selection of Patients."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Non-emergency Presentation. A veterinarian may choose whom he will serve. Once a veterinarian has undertaken care of a patient, and a veterinarian-client-patient relationship has been established, the veterinarian may not neglect the patient.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Emergency Presentation. In an emergency, a veterinarian should render service to the best of the veterinarian’s ability, but this does not require a veterinarian to accept financial responsibility for the care and treatment of any animal. The following procedures may be performed during an emergency without such actions constituting the establishment of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Initial evaluation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Diagnostics to assist in the initial evaluation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Initial treatments to stabilize a patient.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Advertising."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A veterinarian or an owner of a licensed veterinary hospital, limited use veterinary hospital, or animal control facility may not prepare, cause to be prepared, use, or participate in the use of, any advertisement or other public communication containing information about the services of particular veterinarians or veterinary hospitals which:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Contains a misstatement of fact;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is likely to mislead or deceive because in context it makes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Only a partial disclosure of relevant facts, including limited hours; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Only a partial disclosure of charges reasonably associated with the advertised service;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Is intended or is likely to create false or unjustified expectations of favorable results, including a guarantee or warranty;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Contains any other statement that is intended or likely to cause a reasonable person to misunderstand or be deceived;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Constitutes, is part of, or is a device for carrying out, an otherwise unlawful act;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Contains subjective claims of superiority of skills, services, or products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Offers a secret drug or treatment; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Endorses a product or procedure, unless the veterinarian or licensee is a regular user of the product or procedure and the product or procedure is recognized as reputable by the American Veterinary Medical Association or by a respected scientific journal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A veterinarian, or an owner of a licensed veterinary hospital, limited use hospital, or animal control facility may not use the word special or specialty in an advertisement unless the veterinarian performing the procedure or treatment:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Meets the definition of a specialist, as set forth in Regulation 03B(9); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is named in the advertisement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A veterinarian, or an owner of a licensed veterinary hospital, limited use veterinary hospital, or animal control facility, who advertises the availability of a veterinarian to serve a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital, shall state clearly in the advertisement whether a veterinarian is personally present at the hospital facility on a 24-hour basis, or is merely on call.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Veterinarians shall be personally responsible for compliance with the above requirements and shall be prepared to substantiate their compliance to the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The name of a veterinary hospital or limited use veterinary hospital may not contain the word specialty, specialist, or a named specialist, unless:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A majority of the veterinarians employed by the facility have obtained and maintained certification from a specialty organization recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The advertisement lists the names of those veterinarians by specialty and certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Before advertising as a high-volume, low-cost spay/neuter facility, a veterinarian or an owner of a licensed veterinary hospital shall provide documentation to the Board of having completed training that promotes and provides advanced spay and neuter education to veterinarians and their staff. Such training may be obtained through an organization approved by the Board, such as the Humane Alliance.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Professional Judgment and Practice."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A veterinarian, when caring for and treating a patient, shall conform to those minimal standards of care and treatment which are customary among veterinarians in this State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If a veterinarian professes to the public or colleagues to be a specialist in a particular area of veterinary medicine, the veterinarian, when caring for and treating a patient, shall conform to the minimum standards of care and treatment which are customary among these specialists.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A veterinarian may not provide professional services while:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Using any narcotic or controlled dangerous substance, as defined in Criminal Law Article, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Under the influence of alcohol or any drug that impairs that veterinarian's judgment or motor skills.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Professional Knowledge and Training."> <text>A veterinarian should strive continually to improve veterinary knowledge and skill, making available to his colleagues the benefit of his professional attainments, and seeking, through consultation, assistance of others when it appears that the quality of a veterinary service may be enhanced by consultation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Maintenance of Professional Standards and Reporting Requirements."> <text>It shall be considered a violation of this regulation for any veterinarian to commit any of the following acts of omission or commission:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>To fail to report promptly when required by law or regulations, any dangerous, infectious, or contagious disease known to the veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>To fail to report promptly the results of any tests when required to do so by law or regulation or to apply or report them fraudulently;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>To willfully make any misrepresentation in the inspection of foodstuffs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>To issue or use fraudulently any health certificate, inspection certificate, vaccination certificate, test chart, or other blank form used in the practice of veterinary medicine, including signing these forms in their blank state and dispensing them as such to the client;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>To conduct a practice in violation of the regulations prescribed by the Board for proper sanitary and hygienic methods in the care and treatment of animals.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Record Keeping."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For animals that a veterinarian treats, the veterinarian shall prepare a legibly written record that accurately and thoroughly reflects the treatment provided. At a minimum, the veterinarian's record shall include the following information, as applicable:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If available, the name, address, and phone number of the animal's owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If available, the name and identity of the animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If available, the age, sex, and breed of the animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The dates (beginning and ending) of custody of the animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A short history of the animal's condition as it pertains to the animal's medical status;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The animal's physical condition at the beginning of custody and the initial diagnosis, if any;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The animal's condition, as evidenced through a physical examination, not more than 12 hours before administration of one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Anesthetic;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Injectable sedative; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Injectable tranquilizing agent.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The treatment provided the animal and if medication is given, the following shall be provided:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Amount in milligrams or the volume and concentration of substance used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Frequency; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Route of administration;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>The progress and disposition of the case; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>The surgery log and anesthetic log, if any.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The veterinarian shall record the information referenced in §A of this regulation in a timely manner, that is, as soon as practicable after the veterinarian has seen the animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the veterinarian discovers that the record is incomplete or in error, the veterinarian shall amend the record, being sure to date and initial the amendment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A veterinarian shall label each radiograph and any other diagnostic image or picture with the hospital, clinic, or veterinarian's name, the patient's name, the owner's name, and the date the image or picture was taken. Diagnostics include, but are not limited to, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Ultrasound;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Computed tomography (CT) scans; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other device that is used to generate an image of a patient.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Patient records shall be kept by a veterinarian for 3 years after a patient's last visit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Patient Records.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Patients' records are the property of the veterinary practice for whom the records were made.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If requested by a patient's owner, the veterinarian shall release a copy of an animal's written record to the owner or a subsequent treating veterinarian. The veterinarian may require the owner to pay the reasonable cost of providing the records requested.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If requested by a patient's owner, the veterinarian shall release temporarily to a subsequent treating veterinarian the original nonwritten record of the animal, such as, but not limited to, radiographs, photographs, electrocardiograms, and slides. The subsequent treating veterinarian shall return these original nonwritten records within 30 days of their receipt or such other time as agreed to by the parties.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Upon request and if known, a veterinarian shall inform a boarding facility, including a veterinary hospital offering boarding services, which is boarding a veterinarian's patient, whether the animal's vaccinations are current.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The requirements of this regulation apply to companion pet animals only.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10-1" heading="Client Consent for Companion Animals and Hospitalized Animals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For a non-emergency presentation, a veterinarian shall inform the client, in a manner that is understandable by a reasonable person, of the diagnostic and treatment plan. The veterinarian shall provide a written estimate of the charges for veterinary services, and obtain the client’s signature indicating acknowledgement and approval, before a veterinarian performs the following for a companion animal:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Surgery; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Hospitalization.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For an emergency presentation, a veterinarian shall make a reasonable effort to comply with the requirements set forth in §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Euthanasia. Consent for euthanasia shall be documented in the medical record by the veterinarian. Consent may consist of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A form signed and dated by the client or an individual authorized by the client; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If authorization for euthanasia is given orally, the veterinarian shall note this in the medical record, with a witness to the conversation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A veterinarian shall maintain a written copy of the client consent and estimate of charges in the patient’s record and shall provide a copy to the client.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Annual Registration."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A licensee who practices veterinary medicine in the State shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Register annually with the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pay the Board a registration fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>State on the registration form the licensee's:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Primary practice address, if any;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Business telephone number, if any;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Home (street) address and mailing address if the mailing address is different from the licensee's home address; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Notify the Board in writing of any change in the licensee's name or address (home, mailing, and practice) within 30 days after the change.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A veterinarian who fails to renew a veterinary license within 12 months following its expiration date shall seek reinstatement of the license before resuming the practice of veterinary medicine in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A veterinarian may seek reinstatement of the veterinary license if the last registration certificate expired no more than 5 years before the date application is made for reinstatement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If more than 5 years have lapsed since the date of expiration of the last registration certificate, the veterinarian shall apply for a new license with the Board, as provided in COMAR 15.14.09.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Reinstatement with the Board requires submission of the following to the Board’s office:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Personal History Form;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Current resume;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Licensure verification from all state veterinary boards with which the veterinarian is licensed or has ever been licensed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Proof of the appropriate type and number of hours of continuing education, as provided in COMAR 15.14.10.04, for the period during which the license had lapsed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Payment of the reinstatement fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Provided the veterinarian is approved for reinstatement by the Board, payment of the registration fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Controlled Dangerous Substances."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>To prescribe or dispense controlled dangerous substances, a veterinarian shall have a current:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Federal controlled substance registration certificate; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maryland controlled dangerous substance registration.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A veterinarian shall ensure that all controlled dangerous substances are maintained, administered, prescribed, dispensed, and destroyed in compliance with all State and federal laws.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Schedule II drugs.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Emergency Dispensing. A Schedule II drug may be dispensed upon oral prescription by a veterinarian if the following conditions are met:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Immediate administration of the drug is necessary for proper treatment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Alternative treatment is not available; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>It is not possible for the veterinarian to provide a written prescription for the drug at that time.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If an oral prescription is issued under §C(1) of this regulation, the veterinarian shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Specify the:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Name of the drug;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Dose strength;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Quantity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Instructions; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Warnings; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Prescribe only enough to treat the animal during the emergency period;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>State on the prescription “Authorization for Emergency Dispensing”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Within 72 hours, write, sign, and send the prescription to the location that dispensed the drug; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Make a note of the issuance of an oral prescription in the animal's record.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Except as provided in §C(4) of this regulation, a veterinarian shall maintain all Schedule II drugs under lock at all times, with access by veterinarians only.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A registered veterinary technician may have access to a working stock of Schedule II drugs kept under separate lock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Schedule III—V drugs. A veterinarian shall maintain all Schedule III—V drugs under lock when not in use.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Records.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For all controlled dangerous substances, a veterinarian shall maintain complete and accurate records on the premises indicated by name on the federal controlled substance registration certificate or Maryland controlled dangerous substance registration. A veterinarian may delegate to an authorized employee the daily task of completing these records.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A veterinarian or authorized employee shall include the following information in the dispensing record:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Date of dispensation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Drug name, strength, and the amount dispensed, administered, or wasted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Client and animal identification; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Identification of the veterinarian authorizing the administration or dispensing of a drug.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Inventory. A veterinarian shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Take inventory on the same date once every 2 years;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sign, date, and record the time inventory is taken;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintain records of all Schedule II prescriptions for a period of 5 years, and maintain records of all Schedule III—V prescriptions for a period of 2 years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Disposal. A veterinarian shall destroy all Schedule II—V drugs in accordance with United States Drug Enforcement Agency rules and regulations.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12-1" heading="Prescriptions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A veterinarian may issue a prescription only under the following conditions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The veterinarian is willing to dispense the drug for the patient.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A licensed veterinarian authorizing a pharmacist to dispense a veterinary prescription drug shall include the following in the prescription:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The name, address, telephone number, and license number of the veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The name and address of the client;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Identification of the animal, through either name or number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The species of the animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The name, quantity, and strength of the drug;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Directions for use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Cautionary statements including, if applicable, expiration date and withdrawal time for slaughter or milk withholding, or both;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Date of issue;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Number of refills; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>The signature of the veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>When issuing a prescription or dispensing a drug to a client, a veterinarian shall inform the client of the most common known side effects of the drug.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A veterinarian or employee approved by a veterinarian may transmit prescriptions that are not controlled dangerous substances from the prescriber to a pharmacy chosen by a client, and note such action in the record of the animal belonging to the client. Acceptable methods of transmission include but are not limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Facsimile; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Encrypted computer transmission.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A veterinarian may renew a prescription issued by another veterinarian from the same hospital for a client of that hospital if the veterinarian issuing the prescription renewal is in agreement with the need to continue treatment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A veterinarian may supply a veterinarian at a different veterinary hospital with a prescription drug to alleviate a shortage or supply a need, but may not fill a prescription for a client that has been written by a veterinarian who is not an employee of that hospital.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A veterinarian shall have examined a patient at least once during the preceding 12-month period before renewing any prescription medication for a chronic condition. If an examination has not occurred, a prescription may not be renewed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12-2" heading="Dispensing of Federal Legend Drugs or Veterinary Prescription Drugs."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A veterinarian may dispense a prescription drug only if a veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A veterinarian shall ensure that all federal legend drugs and veterinary prescription drugs are maintained, administered, prescribed, dispensed, and destroyed in compliance with all State and federal laws.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A veterinarian shall dispense prescription drugs only to the clients of the veterinarian or to clients of other veterinarians at the same hospital if there is an agreement with the need to continue treatment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A veterinarian or authorized employee may not dispense a quantity of drug that is greater than that needed for the treatment of an animal, herd, or flock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Nonprofessional staff may dispense prescription drugs only after specific instructions have been provided by a staff veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A veterinarian or authorized employee shall include the following information on the labels of dispensed drugs:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Hospital name, address, and telephone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Name of prescribing veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Name of client and animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Name, quantity, and strength of the drug;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Directions for usage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Route of administration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Length of treatment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Appropriate cautionary statements including, if applicable, slaughter withdrawal or milk withholding times, or both;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Date of dispensation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Expiration date.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Returned Prescriptions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A veterinarian or authorized individual may not place a prescription returned by a client back into inventory unless:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The prescription container is unopened;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The prescription has not expired; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>It can be readily determined that the drug was properly stored, labeled, and sealed to preserve strength, quality, purity, and identity during the time between sale of the drug and return to the veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A client may return any drug that does not meet the requirements of §G(1) to the veterinarian or veterinary hospital for proper disposal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12-3" heading="Expired Medications."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A veterinarian may not administer expired medications to an animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A veterinarian may not remove expiration dates from medications.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Until a veterinarian has disposed of an expired medication, the veterinarian shall package and keep it separate and apart from unexpired medications.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Enforcement."> <text>This chapter shall be enforced by the Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. The Board may suspend or revoke the license and registration of any veterinarian or censure or place on probation any veterinarian for a violation of any provision of this chapter. Disciplinary actions instituted on the basis of this chapter shall be conducted in accordance with the hearing requirements established by the statutes relating to the practice of veterinary medicine in the State and the regulations promulgated under them. Hearings shall be conducted in accordance with procedures adopted by the Board and the Maryland Department of Agriculture and prescribed by the Administrative Procedures Act.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Severability."> <text>If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, the holding may not affect other provisions or applications of the regulation and, to this extent, the provisions of this regulation are severable.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Complying with Certain Requests of the Board."> <text>A veterinarian shall comply with the following requests of the Board:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If summoned to appear before the Board, to appear on the date and at the time indicated in the summons; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 15 days after receiving a Request for Production of Documents from the Board, to deliver to the Board all books, papers, records, and other documentary evidence which the Board has requested; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the veterinarian owns a veterinary hospital, to allow the Board's inspectors to inspect the facility during normal business hours.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Notice of Lack of 24-hour Supervision."> <text>A veterinarian who has assumed the care and custody of an animal, but does not provide 24-hour supervision by a paid employee physically in the hospital, where the animals are kept, shall provide the following written notification to the owner of the animal: “We Do Not Provide 24-Hour Supervision”. This notice shall be provided either by:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Posting in a conspicuous location within the hospital that is readily visible by the public, such as at or near a receptionist's desk; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Hand delivery to the owner on a piece of paper when the animal is presented for treatment or boarding.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Direct Supervision Guidelines."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings indicated:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Registered veterinary technician” means an individual currently registered with the Board as a veterinary technician;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Responsible direct supervision” means competent, immediate, and active supervision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Technician” means a nurse, attendant, technician, intern, or other employee of a licensed and registered veterinarian who is not a registered veterinary technician.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A veterinarian giving responsible direct supervision to the work of a technician or registered veterinary technician shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In the immediate vicinity of where the work is being performed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Actively engaged in supervising this work throughout the entire period it is being performed, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Providing clear and specific directions on what work is to be done,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Being cognizant of how the assigned work is being performed, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Being immediately available to provide advice when the assigned work is being performed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A veterinarian may not permit a technician to perform the following procedures on an animal while the animal is under that veterinarian's care:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Anesthesia induction by inhalation or intravenous injection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Anesthesia induction by intramuscular injection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Application of casts and splints;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Dental extractions; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Suturing of existing surgical skin incisions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A veterinarian may permit a registered veterinary technician to perform the procedures referenced in §C of this regulation if, when these procedures are being performed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The individual is under the responsible direct supervision of the veterinarian; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the procedure referenced in §C(1) of this regulation only, the veterinarian also is able to maintain direct visual contact of the technician's performance of this procedure.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A veterinarian may permit a technician to render auxiliary or supporting assistance or administer medication if, when rendering the assistance or administering medication, the employee is under the responsible direct supervision of the veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>In the case of an anesthetized animal, a veterinarian may permit a technician to monitor the animal's condition and provide other supporting assistance, including the animal's maintenance, once the animal is stabilized.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Animal Boarding by a Veterinarian."> <text>A veterinarian who operates an animal boarding business in connection with a veterinary hospital is responsible for:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Caring for boarded animals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Training staff on the care of boarded animals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Instructing staff to report to the veterinarian on duty if a boarded animal is sick or injured; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Arranging for the veterinary care of any sick or injured boarded animal.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103, 2-304, and 2-310, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 1, 1974</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective November 2, 1987 (14:22 Md. R. 2340)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308); February 3, 2014 (41:2 Md. R. 92); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130); August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992); September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521); January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective October 6, 1978 (5:20 Md. R. 1501); December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1919); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended as an emergency provision effective August 15, 2006 (33:18 Md. R. 1503); amended permanently effective December 7, 2006 (33:24 Md. R. 1906)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06F amended effective October 29, 1975 (2:24 Md. R. 1483)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective May 7, 1984 (11:9 Md. R. 796); January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130); December 25, 1989 (16:25 Md. R. 2714); September 8, 1997 (24:18 Md. R. 1296)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 amended effective January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 amended effective January 30, 1984 (11:2 Md. R. 114); April 6, 1998 (25:7 Md. R. 529); September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521); January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10A amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900); October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10D amended effective June 8, 1992 (19:11 Md. R. 1016)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10D amended as an emergency provision effective May 26, 2010 (37:13 Md. R. 850); adopted permanently effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10F amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10-1 adopted effective February 3, 2014 (41:2 Md. R. 92)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective October 7, 1985 (12:20 Md. R. 1930); March 29, 1993 (20:6 Md. R. 584); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended as an emergency provision effective March 14, 1996 (23:7 Md. R. 549); amended permanently effective July 15, 1996 (23:14 Md. R. 1011)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended effective March 24, 1997 (24:6 Md. R. 488); June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended as an emergency provision effective May 24, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 908); amended permanently effective September 13, 2004 (31:18 Md. R. 1351)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended effective January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 repealed effective January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 adopted effective June 8, 1992 (19:11 Md. R. 1016)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 recodified to be Regulation .12-3 and new Regulation .12 adopted effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12-1 adopted effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12-1G adopted effective July 16, 2018 (45:14 Md. R. 698)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12-2 adopted effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .15 adopted effective August 30, 1993 (20:17 Md. R. 1351)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .15C adopted effective June 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 902)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16 adopted effective June 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 902)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16 amended effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992); January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16A amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17 adopted effective July 15, 1996 (23:14 Md. R. 1011)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17A amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17A, B, D amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 adopted effective March 9, 1998 (25:5 Md. R. 370)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 repealed and Regulation .19 recodified to Regulation .18 effective September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19 adopted effective March 18, 2002 (29:5 Md. R. 504)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Board Actions"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter concerns formal and informal actions of the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners to enforce the laws and regulations governing the practice of veterinary medicine in this State. The Board may take action against alleged violators, including a veterinarian, a veterinary technician, an owner of a veterinary hospital, an owner of a mobile veterinary clinic, and an owner of an animal control facility. This chapter describes the Board’s procedures for investigating possible violations of the Maryland Veterinary Practice Act that it discovers, and complaints it receives within 3 years of the complained-of conduct, and older complaints upon a showing of extraordinary circumstances. Additionally, this chapter describes procedures for contested case hearings before the Board and alternative dispute resolution procedures, including confidential case resolution procedure and mediation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01-1" heading="Notice."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notice of Board Action.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Board shall give written notice to a person against whom it is taking action at least 10 days before the scheduled hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The notice shall state:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The facts that are asserted or, if the facts cannot be stated in detail when notice is given, the issues that are involved;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The pertinent regulatory and statutory provisions under which this action is being taken;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The sanction proposed or the potential penalty, if any, as a result of the Board's action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Unless a hearing has been scheduled, the person's opportunity to request a hearing before the Board, including the requirement that the request be in writing and submitted to the Board within 10 days from receipt of the notice; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The direct consequences, sanction, and potential penalty, if any, of the person's failure to exercise, in a timely manner, the opportunity for a hearing or to appear for a scheduled hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contested Case Hearing.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the Board conducts a contested case hearing, it shall give all parties written notice of the hearing at least 10 days before the scheduled hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The written notice shall state:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The date, time, place, and nature of the hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The right to call witnesses and submit documents or other evidence under State Government Article, §10-213(f), Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any applicable right to request subpoenas for witnesses and evidence and the costs, if any, associated with such a request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The facts that are asserted or, if the facts cannot be stated in detail when notice is given, the issues that are included;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>That a copy of the hearing procedure is available on request, and the cost, if any, associated with such a request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The right to be heard personally and to be represented by counsel before the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>The right to confront witnesses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>That failure to appear for the scheduled hearing may result in an adverse action against the party; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>That the parties may agree to the evidence and waive their right to appear at the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Board shall provide to the licensee the required notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, bearing a postmark from the U.S. Postal Service, addressed to the post office address shown on the annual registration or other information the Board possesses.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Board may provide the licensee notice by regular mail to the licensee's address of record if the Board has been unsuccessful in giving notice as provided under §C of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Abrogate” means to rescind a prior action of the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Cease and desist letter” means a letter issued by the Board directing:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A licensee to cease doing a specified activity; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An unlicensed individual to cease the unauthorized practice of veterinary medicine.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Censure” means a reprimand.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Charging document” means a nonpublic document issued by the Board as a formal disciplinary action that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Alleges conduct by a licensee that the Board considers to be a violation under the Maryland Veterinary Medicine Act;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Sets forth provisions of the Maryland Veterinary Practice Act that the Board considers to have been violated; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Provides notice to the licensee of disciplinary proceedings before the Board.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Civil penalty final order” means a public document issued by the Board containing a final order that disposes of a charging document when the licensee:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Waives the right to a contested case hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Pays the civil penalty sanction contained in the notice of Board action.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Complaint” means a nonpublic document or other information received by the Board that sets out conduct by a licensee that may:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Violate the Maryland Veterinary Practice Act; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Be grounds for an investigation or disciplinary action by the Board.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Consent agreement and order” means a public document issued by the Board that includes a final order of the Board specifying certain Board action that has been negotiated and agreed to by both parties to resolve a disciplinary action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Default order” means a proposed order issued by the Board upon the failure of a licensee to respond to a notice of Board action or to appear at a hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Dismissal” means an action of the Board to dispose of a complaint or matter without taking any disciplinary action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Disposition agreement” means a nonpublic formal agreement entered into with an impaired licensee in which the licensee agrees to comply with certain conditions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Letter of admonishment” means a nonpublic document issued by the Board as an informal action containing strong recommendations to a veterinarian regarding conduct or practices that concern the Board but do not rise to a level of severity requiring disciplinary action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Letter of advice” means a nonpublic document issued by the Board as an informal action containing educational advice to a veterinarian regarding conduct or practices that the Board finds could be improved but do not rise to a level of severity requiring disciplinary action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Letter of surrender” means a public letter accepted by the Board in which the licensee agrees to surrender the licensee’s license to practice veterinary medicine.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Mediation” means a confidential voluntary alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process offered by the Department to assist parties in resolving a dispute informally.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Modified order” means an order issued by the Board to abrogate, change, or modify an original order after consideration of facts not originally considered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Probation” means a sanction imposed by the Board, in which the licensee is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Monitored by the Board for a period of time; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Subject to certain requirements by the Board.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Public document” means a document that the Board is permitted or required to disclose to the public under State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 6, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Recusal” means the removal of a member of the Board from participation in a matter because of interest, bias, or other reason.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Resolution conference” means a confidential meeting between a licensee and members of the Board to discuss possible settlement of a disciplinary matter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Show cause hearing” means a nonevidentiary hearing before the Board in which the licensee may demonstrate to the Board why the Board should not issue a proposed order or take some other action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Stay” means the withholding of Board action against a licensee, which stay may be subject to conditions imposed by the Board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Stet” means the act of staying all further action in a proceeding, subject to the proceeding being reopened at a later date.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Summary suspension” means the indefinite suspension of a license under State Government Article, §10-226, Annotated Code of Maryland, issued if the Board finds that the action is necessary to protect the health, safety, or welfare of animals or individuals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Veterinary review committee” means a team composed of three or more members of the Board that, under Agriculture Article §2-302.1, has the delegated authority to perform regulatory functions pertaining to veterinary practitioners under Title 2, Subtitle 3 of the Agriculture Article.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Violation of probation” means failure to comply with a requirement of probation imposed in an order of the Board.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Complaint Procedures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board or a veterinary review committee shall review a complaint received within 3 years of the conduct complained of, and may review a complaint received after 3 years of the conduct complained of upon a showing of extraordinary circumstances.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After reviewing a complaint, the Board or a veterinary review committee may further investigate the complaint by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Requesting relevant records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Requesting written or oral responses from the alleged violator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Requesting rebuttals from the complainant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Requesting statements from witnesses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Requesting statements from relevant third parties, including other treating veterinarians;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Procuring expert opinions on relevant specialty areas;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Researching areas in dispute; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Seeking legal advice.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>After completing an investigation of a complaint, the Board or a veterinary review committee may recommend that the Board take one or more of the following actions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Dismiss the matter for lack of authority or merit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Issue a cease and desist order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Issue a letter of advice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Issue a letter of admonition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Issue a notice of action and charging document;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Stay the matter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Stet the matter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Refer the matter to mediation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Refer the matter to the appropriate authorities; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Issue a summary suspension which provides the right to request within 10 days a nonevidentiary show cause hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Board Actions and Case Resolution Procedures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board may resolve or dispose of a complaint by any of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Consent agreement and order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Civil penalty final order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Consent agreement and censure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Disposition agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Dismissal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Final order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Letter of advice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Letter of admonishment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Probation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Referral to appropriate authorities;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Referral to mediation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Stay;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Stet; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Other authorized action of the Board.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After the issuance of a notice of Board action and charging document to a licensee, the Board and the licensee may voluntarily agree to enter into any of the following confidential case resolution procedures, which may result in a formal or informal action of the Board:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A case resolution conference call or meeting;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Settlement negotiations; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Mediation of interested parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A case resolution procedure shall be completed within 180 days of issuance of a notice of Board action, unless the Board finds good cause to grant additional time upon a written request and showing by the licensee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Board may issue a default order to a licensee who, without good cause, fails to respond to a notice of agency action or to comply with a Board order.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A licensee who receives a default order may request a nonevidentiary show cause hearing within 10 days of receipt of the order.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If the Board and a licensee are unable to reach an agreement, the matter may proceed to a hearing, if the licensee requested a hearing in writing in a timely manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The Board in its discretion may abrogate a prior order or issue a modified order.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Except for consideration of a proposed resolution of a case, admissions, facts revealed, proposals, or positions taken, unless the information is available from other sources or through discovery, are not admissible in a contested case hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Participation in a case resolution procedure is not ordinarily a basis for recusal of Board member from further proceedings in a case.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Parties — Representation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Party” includes any person or agency named or admitted as a party, or properly seeking and entitled as of right to be admitted as a party, in formal hearings. Any person or agency may be admitted as a party for limited purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>All parties appearing at formal hearings shall have the right to appear in proper person or by or with counsel. These parties shall have the right to be accompanied, represented, and advised by counsel.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Records — Transcript."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board shall prepare an official record, which shall include all pleadings, testimony, exhibits, and other memoranda or material filed in the proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless waived by all parties, a stenographic record of the proceedings shall be made at the expense of the Board. This record need not be transcribed, however, unless requested by a party, or by the Board. The cost of any typewritten transcripts of any proceeding, or part of a proceeding, shall be paid by the party requesting the transcript.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Presiding Officer — Duties."> <text>Each hearing shall be held before not less than a quorum of the Board. The Chairman, or in his absence, a member designated by him, shall be the presiding officer, and shall have complete charge of the hearing, permit the examination of witnesses, admit evidence, rule on the admissibility of evidence, and adjourn or recess the hearing from time to time. The Chairman or any member of the Board shall have the authority to administer the oaths to all witnesses testifying in the proceeding.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Order of Procedure."> <text>The order in which the parties shall present their case shall be determined by the presiding officer.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Examination of Witnesses and Introduction of Evidence."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The rules of evidence in all hearings under these regulations shall be as set forth in State Government Article, §§10-213 and 10-214, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Any party may submit evidence, examine and cross-examine witnesses, and file objections, exceptions, and motions; provided, however, that where a party is represented by counsel, the submission of evidence, examination and cross-examination of witnesses, and filing of objections, exceptions, and motions shall be done and presented solely by counsel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The presiding officer, or any person designated by him for the purpose, may examine any witness called by any party. He may call as a witness any person in attendance at the hearing. Any member of the Board may examine any witness called by any party.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Board shall have the power to compel the attendance of witnesses by subpoena.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A member of the Board shall decide a motion for recusal when the basis for the motion is that member’s legal interest or bias. The presiding officer shall decide a motion for recusal, if the basis for the motion is something other than legal interest or bias of another member.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Briefs."> <text>Any party may submit briefs of the issues of fact and law involved in the hearing, which briefs shall be filed in such form, with such number of copies, and at such time as the presiding officer may designate.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Participation by the Office of the Attorney General."> <text>The presiding officer may request the Office of the Attorney General to participate in any hearing as counsel for the Board. Upon this request, counsel shall have all of the rights with regard to the submission of evidence, examination and cross-examination of witnesses, and filing of of objections, exceptions, and motions as counsel for any party.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Decision and Order."> <text>Every decision and order rendered by the Board shall be in writing and shall be accompanied by findings of fact and conclusions of law. The findings of fact shall consist of a concise statement of the conclusions upon each contested issue of fact. A copy of the decision and order and accompanying findings and conclusions shall be delivered or mailed promptly to each party or his attorney of record. The decision of the Board shall be by majority vote.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Rehearings."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any party aggrieved by a Board decision and order may apply for rehearing within 30 days after service on him of the decision and order. Action on the application shall lie in the discretion of the Board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless otherwise ordered, neither the rehearing nor the application shall stay the enforcement of the order, or excuse the persons affected by it for failure to comply with its terms.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>On rehearing, the Board may consider facts not presented in the original hearing, including facts arising after the date of the original hearing, and may, by new order, abrogate, change, or modify their original order.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-302.1, 2-304, 2-307.1, 2-310, 2-310.1, and 2-311; State Government Article, §§10-207—10-209; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June, 1968</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective December 2, 1996 (23:24 Md. R. 1683)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Preface recodified as Regulation .01 and Regulation .01 recodified as Regulation .01-1, April, 1997</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10A amended effective April 8, 1985 (12:7 Md. R. 708)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Licensing and Minimum Sanitary Requirements for Veterinary Facilities"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Hospital license” means a license which permits a person to own and operate a veterinary hospital or mobile veterinary clinic.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Licensing year” means the yearly period running from July 1 until June 30.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Owner” means the person responsible for maintaining the hospital or mobile clinic properly. A person who leases a veterinary practice from another shall assume the responsibility of maintaining the facility properly and, thus, for the purposes of this chapter and COMAR 15.14.07, is considered the owner of the facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Responsible veterinarian” means a veterinarian who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is licensed and registered by the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Provides direct supervision and control of a licensed veterinary facility; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Is regularly present at the facility:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>More than 50% of the time the facility is open for business; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>At least 20 hours per week if the facility is open for business more than 40 hours per week.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Valid hospital license” means a hospital license for the current licensing year which has neither been revoked nor, unless stayed, is under suspension.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Veterinary hospital” means a building or portion of a building which is regularly used for the treatment of animals by a veterinary practitioner.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01-1" heading="Licensing Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For each licensing year, an owner shall apply for a hospital license on an application furnished by the Department and pay the annual fee required under Regulation .08 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The owner of a hospital shall provide certain information on the application when either obtaining a new hospital license, or renewing a hospital license. The following information shall be provided on the application form by the owner:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name of hospital;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Name of owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Street address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Printed name and signature of veterinarian responsible for the hospital;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>If more than one individual is employed by the hospital, one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Certificate of compliance with the State Workers' Compensation Laws; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Workmens' compensation policy number or binder number;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Names of all veterinarians employed by the owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Names of all registered veterinary technicians employed by the owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Hospital's core hours of operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Hospital's telephone and facsimile numbers; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Signature and date by the hospital owner.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person, including the owner, may not operate a veterinary hospital unless it has a valid hospital license.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Board shall issue the hospital license in the owner's name for the particular building or portion of it identified in the owner's application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Because a hospital license is issued in the name of a particular owner for a particular building or portion of it, the owner may not transfer this license to either a new owner, including a person leasing or purchasing the owner's veterinary practice, or a different physical structure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Board may not issue a hospital license for, and the owner may not operate a veterinary hospital from, a building or portion of a building which has not previously passed board inspection until such time that the facility passes board inspection. The Board shall attempt to inspect the new facility within 2 weeks from receipt of the owner's application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Change of Ownership.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon receipt of a hospital application and the associated fee by a new owner requesting change of ownership, the Board shall review the hospital's last inspection report. The Board shall issue a hospital license in the name of the new owner if the following conditions are met:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The hospital was inspected by the Board within the 12 months preceding the Board's receipt of the hospital application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The hospital passed the inspection conducted within the 12 months preceding the Board's receipt of the hospital application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the conditions set forth in §G(1)(a) and (b) of this regulation are met, the Board shall attempt to inspect the hospital under new ownership within 60 days from the Board's receipt of the application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>After giving an owner notice and an opportunity to be heard, the Board may reject the owner's application for a hospital license, or suspend or revoke a hospital license the Board previously issued if the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Veterinary hospital does not meet the minimum sanitary requirements for veterinary facilities as provided under this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Owner fails to either pay the annual fee required under Regulation .08 of this chapter or allow the Board to inspect the facility during normal business hours.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>The owner shall notify the Board in writing of any change to the information set forth in §B(1)—(10) of this regulation within 30 days after the change.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01-2" heading="Registration and License Posting Requirements."> <text>The owner shall post the following for the current fiscal year in a conspicuous location within the hospital that is readily visible by the public, such as at or near a receptionist's desk:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Registrations for all veterinarians employed by the hospital;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Registrations for all veterinary technicians employed by the hospital; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The hospital license.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01-3" heading="Animal Housing and Care."> <text>For the purposes of these regulations, comfortable and satisfactory housing is defined as any system of management, care, and housing that permits animals to be maintained in good health. Some of the specific considerations that give meaning to this definition are outlined below:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Criteria for Evaluating a Caging or Housing System.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>It should be designed with the animals' physical comfort as a primary consideration. Physical comfort, as applied scientifically to the housing system, includes keeping the animal dry and clean, maintaining the animal in a state of relative thermal neutrality, providing sufficient space to assure freedom of movement, and allowing for normal postural adjustments, avoiding unnecessary physical restraint, providing convenient access to appropriate food and water, and, if animals are group housed, maintaining them in compatible groups without overcrowding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>It should be compatible with the maintenance of the animals in good health as measured by such factors as the maintenance of normal body weight and the prevention of the spread of communicable diseases.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>It should be designed to facilitate effective sanitary maintenance and technical servicing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Cages, runs, and pens should be kept in good repair to prevent injury to the animal and to promote physical comfort. Sharp corners and edges, broken wires, and any dangerous surfaces shall be immediately covered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Materials used for the caging of animals shall be impervious to water, to wear, and to corrosion. Wood is an unacceptable caging material.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Exercise. An area readily susceptible to proper sanitation shall be available for the sole purpose of exercising animals.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Sanitation Practices."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The animal facility shall be kept clean. A regular schedule of sanitary maintenance is necessary, including the elimination of wastes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Animal rooms, corridors, storage areas, and other parts of the animal facility shall be washed, scrubbed, vacuumed, mopped, or swept as often as necessary, using appropriate detergents and disinfectants to keep them free of dirt, debris, and harmful contamination. A continuing objective shall be to keep these areas neat and uncluttered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If litter or bedding such as paper is used in animal cages or pens, it shall be changed as often as necessary to keep the animals dry and clean and to minimize offensive odors.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Cages or pens from which animal waste is removed by hosing or flushing shall be cleaned and suitably disinfected one or more times daily. This system requires removal of the animals from cages during servicing in order to keep them dry.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Animal cages, racks, and accessory equipment, such as feeders and water utensils, shall be washed and sanitized as often as necessary to keep them physically clean and free from contamination. In addition, cages should always be sanitized before new animals are placed in them. Sanitizing may be accomplished either by washing all soiled surfaces with a cleaning agent having an effective bactericidal action or with live steam or the equivalent thereof.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Waste containers and implements shall be maintained in sanitary condition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A veterinarian shall handle, treat, and dispose of medical wastes (including, but not limited to, carcasses, anatomical body parts, excretions, blood-soiled articles, bedding, and sharps) that are generated from an animal that the veterinarian knows, or has reason to know, has a disease that is capable of being transmitted to humans, in accordance with COMAR 26.13.11 and COMAR 10.06.06.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>A veterinarian shall handle waste materials that are generated from an animal that does not have a disease transmissible to humans as provided under this section:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Sharps, including but not limited to syringes, needles, and surgical instruments, shall be placed in a rigid, tightly lidded container that is impervious to puncture. Before disposing of this container, it shall be placed in a leak-proof plastic sack or plastic-lined paper bag.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Animal tissues, including blood if it is in liquid form, shall be disposed of as provided under §H(3) or placed in one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Sanitary sewer if allowed under any local ordinance or regulation and the Environment Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Leak-proof disposable container, such as a plastic sack or a plastic-lined paper bag. Before disposing of this container, it shall be placed in a rigid, opaque container.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Animal Carcasses.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except as provided under §H(3)(b), an animal carcass shall be disposed of promptly by one of the following methods:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Release to the owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Burial;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Cremation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Incineration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Disposal through the rendering process; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vi)"> <text>If permitted by local ordinance, placed in a public landfill.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If prompt disposal of an animal carcass is not possible, it shall be contained in a freezer or stored in a sanitary, nonoffensive manner until such time as it can be disposed of as provided under §H(3)(a).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Litter, bedding, and animal excretions from:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Companion animals shall be placed either in a:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Sanitary sewer if allowed under any local ordinance or regulation and the Environment Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Leak-proof disposable container, such as a plastic sack or a plastic-lined bag, when disposing of them by other available means;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Livestock shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Handled as provided under §H(4)(a), or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Disposed of by any acceptable agricultural method.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Before disposing of blood-soiled articles, they shall be placed in a leak-proof disposable container such as a plastic sack or a plastic-lined bag.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Waste materials should be removed regularly and frequently so that storage of waste does not create a nuisance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>The elimination or effective control of vermin shall be mandatory.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Feeding and Watering of Animals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Feeding.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All animals shall have daily access to feed according to their particular requirements. The food should be wholesome, free of contamination, palatable, and nutritionally adequate. It shall be fed in amounts sufficient to meet the needs of the individual animals.*</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Food containers shall be accessible to animals and shall be located to minimize contamination by excreta. Feed containers shall be made of a durable material and shall be kept clean. Food containers shall be sanitized daily after usage. Disposable food containers may be used but shall be discarded after use.</text> </paragraph> <aftertext>* As specified in the National Research Council Series on nutrient requirements for animals.</aftertext> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Watering. Animals shall have access to potable water, according to their particular requirements.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Facilities, Equipment, and Supplies for Animal Surgery and Post Surgical Care."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If surgery is performed, appropriate facilities and equipment shall be provided and the operating area shall be run in accordance with accepted surgical practice.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A suitably equipped area shall include the following equipment and supplies:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An autoclave or other equipment for effective sterilization of instruments, linens, gloves, gowns, and similar items;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A scrub sink or a suitable container for surgical preparation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An operating light or sufficient power to assure clear illumination of the operative field;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Instruments and drapes appropriate for the surgical procedures used in the hospital; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A positive pressure oxygen delivery system for small animal patients where medically indicated.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Construction Standards for Veterinary Facilities."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Floors. Floors shall be smooth, waterproof, nonabsorbent, capable of being suitably scrubbed with detergents and effective sanitizing products, and capable of normal hospital use. Floor-wall junctions in areas such as waiting areas, examination rooms, treatment rooms, surgery rooms, and kennels shall be sealed to facilitate floor cleaning.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Walls. Walls shall be waterproof and smooth and free of cracks or gaps large enough to interfere with effective cleaning.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Ceilings. Ceilings shall be capable of being maintained in a sanitary condition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Exterior Windows. Exterior windows and skylights are not needed in the animal rooms if adequate ventilation and lights are provided. If windows are provided and are opened for ventilation purposes, effective screening is required.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Ventilation, Temperature, and Humidity Control.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Effective ventilation shall maintain a low concentration of atmospheric contaminants, such as odors or microorganisms, shall regulate room temperature, and shall promote comfort.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A ventilation system should permit individual adjustments within +=/- 4 degrees F for any temperature within a range of 65 degrees F. The relative humidity should be maintained year round within a range of 30 to 70 percent, according to the needs of the species being maintained.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If animals (for example, dogs) are housed outdoors with no access to indoor facilities, provisions to aid their natural temperature regulations are essential. When the ambient temperature falls below 50 degrees F, some form of shelter and an acceptable clean nesting material shall be provided, except for horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. When the ambient temperature exceeds 85 degrees F, shade shall be available and animals should be able to burrow or lie on materials several degrees cooler than the surrounding air.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Corridors. Corridors shall be wide enough to permit easy flow of personnel and equipment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Power and Lighting. The electrical system should provide ample lighting, sufficient power outlets, safety provisions (such as explosion-proof outlets in rooms where volatile, explosive anesthetics may be used), and waterproof outlets where water is used in cleaning. Lighting shall be uniformly diffused throughout the area to be served. Although 10 to 15 footcandles of light are considered sufficient to maintain vital animal activity and rhythms, at least 50 footcandles are necessary for ordinary servicing of animal enclosures. For most animal housing areas, a minimum lighting intensity of 75 footcandles at the level of the cage racks is required. Animal treatment and examination areas should have a minimum of 100 footcandles at the work surface. Provision shall be made for emergency lighting in the event of a power failure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Drainage. Floor drains, although not essential in animal rooms, if present, should be maintained in a sanitary and nuisance-free condition. Floors in these rooms can be maintained satisfactorily by wet vacuuming or by sweeping and mopping with appropriate disinfectants or cleaning compounds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Service Areas in Relation to the Total Size of the Animal Facilities.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An area or areas equal in square feet to at least 25 percent of the animal housing space shall be set aside for the service functions of the animal facility. The hospital service functions include all activities except animal housing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When an animal facility is 1,000 square feet or less in size, it may be permitted to carry out the service functions in an area that serves other activities as well. However, a separate facility shall be available for storage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Space Recommendations for Animals. The size of a cage, pen, or run shall be such as to allow the animal housed in it to repose and change position comfortably.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>An automatic, electronic, centrally monitored fire alarm system shall be located in a veterinary hospital. The alarm system shall be adequate to warn if fire is in any area of the hospital where an animal may be kept or treated.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Storage Areas: Food and Bedding, Refuse Equipment."> <text>Bulk supplies of food and bedding may not be stored in animal rooms. A separate area or room shall be available in which food and bedding can be stored off the floor on pallets, racks, or carts. Food storage areas shall be physically separated from refuse areas. Temperatures in the storage rooms may be the ambient temperature. Refrigerated storage shall be available for perishable items. Separate storage for animal waste and dead animals is essential. Carcasses shall be kept below 45°F to reduce putrefaction. Obnoxious materials shall be covered or packaged.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Local Building Codes; Use and Business Permits."> <text>Notwithstanding the provisions of these regulations, the provisions of local building codes, zoning codes, and applicable use and building permits shall be complied with by the owner or director of a veterinary facility as a condition for approval of operation, provided the provisions are at least equal to these regulations.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Licensing Fee."> <text>The owner of the hospital shall pay an annual license fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-304 and 2-304.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 1, 1974</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01A, .03A, .04B, and .05A amended effective June 16, 1978 (5:12 Md. R. 969)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective February 3, 2014 (41:2 Md. R. 92)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 recodified to Regulation .01-2 and new Regulations .01 and .01-1 adopted effective May 24, 1993 (20:10 Md. R. 853)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01-1 amended effective June 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 902); January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01-2 recodified to Regulation .01-3 and new Regulation .01-2 adopted effective September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01-2 amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective February 19, 1990 (17:3 Md. R. 301)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended effective April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A, F amended effective September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05K adopted effective December 1, 1997 (24:24 Md. R. 1671)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 adopted effective March 15, 1993 (20:5 Md. R. 515)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended as an emergency provision effective May 24, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 908); amended permanently effective September 13, 2004 (31:18 Md. R. 1351)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Animal Control Facility Licenses"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to establish the:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Terms and conditions under which an:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Animal control facility license may be issued by the Board to an owner of an animal control facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Individual qualifies as an authorized employee of an animal control facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Authorized employee of an animal control facility is allowed to administer controlled dangerous substances required to humanely sedate, euthanize, or sedate and euthanize injured, sick, homeless, or unwanted domestic pets, and other animals; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Individual qualifies and is designated as the responsible individual who may purchase and maintain controlled dangerous substances for use at an animal control facility; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Training requirements an individual shall meet to qualify as:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The individual designated as the responsible individual who is allowed to purchase and maintain the controlled dangerous substances for use by authorized employees of the animal control facility; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An authorized employee who may administer drugs to animals during the course of the individual's employment with an animal control facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter applies to all humane societies and county or municipal designated animal shelters in the State that use controlled dangerous substances.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Animal control facility” means a humane society or a county or municipal designated animal shelter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Authorized employee” means an individual who takes direction from a responsible individual and has obtained Board-approved training in the use and handling of controlled dangerous substances as set forth in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS).</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Controlled dangerous substance (CDS)” means a substance listed in schedules II—V, as defined in Criminal Law Article, §5-101(f), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Controlled dangerous substance (CDS)” includes substances used by an animal control facility for sedation, euthanasia, or both.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“DEA” means the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Drug” means a controlled dangerous substance (CDS).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Humane society” means a society or association incorporated in Maryland for the prevention of cruelty to animals, as defined in Criminal Law Article, §10-601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Licensing year” means the annual period running from July 1 until June 30.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“MDH” means the Maryland Department of Health.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Owner” means a person who rents, leases, or otherwise has control of the premises where the animal control facility is located.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“PAWS” means the Professional Animal Workers of Maryland, which is the State association of animal control agencies and humane organizations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Responsible individual” means the individual who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Meets the requirements of Regulation .06 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is responsible for obtaining and maintaining the drugs that an animal control facility uses for sedating, euthanizing, or sedating and euthanizing injured, sick, homeless, or unwanted domestic pets, and other animals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Valid animal control facility license” means a license to operate an animal control facility issued for the current licensing year which has neither been revoked nor, unless stayed, is under suspension.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person applying for a license shall obtain, complete, and submit licensing applications and fees as set forth in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A licensee shall comply with:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The inspection requirements by the Board or the Board's designee set forth in this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicable training requirements as required in this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Criminal Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland, and regulations promulgated under it.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Licensing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Requirement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person may not operate an animal control facility to administer controlled dangerous substances without an animal control facility license issued by the Board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person shall obtain a license for each separate location of an animal control facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Duration and Licensing Period.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The licensing year for an animal control facility is July 1 through June 30.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Board may not issue an initial animal control facility license that extends beyond June 30 of the current licensing year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A license is valid for not more than 1 year from the date of issuance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A licensee who wishes to maintain continuous licensure shall act to renew an animal control facility license before the expiration of the license for each licensing year.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Application.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The owner of an animal control facility shall provide a fully completed application to the Board when:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Applying to obtain an initial animal control facility license; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Renewing an animal control facility license.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>To apply for an initial animal control facility license or renew an animal control facility license, an animal control facility owner shall submit:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A completed, Board-provided application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Other documents or information required by the Board; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>An annual license fee of $100.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Refunds. Licensing fees are nonrefundable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Application Information. The owner of an animal control facility shall provide a fully completed application containing the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If applying as an individual, the full name, home address, and telephone number of the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Responsible individual; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Each employee authorized to administer drugs;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If applying as an institution, the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Business or trade name, business address, and telephone number; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Information required in §D(1)(b) and (c) of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The name, address, and telephone number of the animal control facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An owner shall apply for and obtain a separate animal control facility license for each location that the owner operates an animal control facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Board shall issue the animal control facility license in the owner's name and the responsible individual's name for the particular building or portion of a building identified in the owner's application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Change in Ownership; Location; Non-Transferability.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An animal control facility license issued pursuant to this chapter is not transferable to another owner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A new application shall be submitted to the Board if the animal control facility changes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Ownership;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Location; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Responsible individual.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Notification to the Board.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The owner shall notify the Board in writing of any change to the information provided in the animal control facility license application within 30 days.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the change involves the responsible individual, the owner shall comply with the notification requirements in Regulation .13B of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Inspection. An animal control facility issued an animal control facility license under this chapter may be periodically inspected by the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Board or the Board's designee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>MDH Office of Controlled Substances Administration (OCSA)</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Responsible Individual."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Requirement. An animal control facility shall designate an individual as the responsible individual.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Eligibility and Qualifications.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A responsible individual is an individual who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is 21 years old or older;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is formally designated by the owner or the board of directors as the responsible individual to obtain controlled dangerous substances for the animal shelter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Within 10 years of the date the individual was designated as the responsible individual, has not been convicted of a felony offense or a crime or infraction involving:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Animal abuse or neglect; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Controlled dangerous substances.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The owner may be designated as the responsible individual for the animal control facility if the owner meets the requirements set forth in §B(1) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Duties and Responsibilities. The responsible individual shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be involved and present during the routine operations of the animal control facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Successfully complete an approved euthanasia training course as set forth in Regulation .09 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Establish and maintain a written manual of instructions for employees to follow when performing animal control procedures, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Euthanasia;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Sedation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any other form of chemical animal control;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Ensure that employees who administer drugs to animals have obtained required training suitable to the setting in which they are required to perform work for the animal control facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Designate the employees who are authorized to administer controlled dangerous substances and noncontrolled substances in the course of the activities of the animal control facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Maintain and make available for inspection a current list of authorized employees;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Ensure that the authorized employees only perform tasks and duties at the direction of the responsible individual or owner of the animal control facility; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Purchase and maintain the required controlled dangerous substances for use at the animal control facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The responsible individual shall maintain all controlled substances under that individual's authority in a properly secured and locked storage container when the responsible individual or an authorized employee is not in the same room with the drug.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Only the responsible individual may purchase controlled dangerous substances for the animal control facility.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Authorized Employee — Duties and Responsibilities."> <text>An authorized employee shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Meet the training requirements set forth in this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Follow the animal control procedures established and maintained by the owner or responsible individual;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Use controlled dangerous substances only as directed by the responsible individual;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Document the use of controlled dangerous substances as set forth in this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Immediately report any discrepancies in the controlled dangerous substances record keeping to the responsible individual.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Controlled Dangerous Substances — Registration Requirement."> <text>Before a responsible individual may purchase controlled dangerous substances as an agent of the animal control facility, the animal control facility shall obtain and maintain CDS registration certificates from both the:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>MDH Office of Controlled Substances Administration (OCSA); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Federal DEA.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Training Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An approved euthanasia training course shall include, but not be limited to, the following topics:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Anatomy;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Humane methods of euthanasia;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Euthanizing wild or feral animals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Administering sedatives; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Verification of death.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The following organizations offer a Board-approved euthanasia course:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The American Humane Association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>National Animal Control Association; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Professional Animal Workers of Maryland (PAWS).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In addition to successfully completing a euthanasia training course as set forth in §A of this regulation, training for an authorized employee who utilizes remote chemical capture equipment in a setting outside of an animal control facility shall include the following topics:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Field chemical capture and immobilization;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Proper use of field equipment, such as:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Dart guns; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Restraint poles; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Personnel safety.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The following organizations offer a Board-approved chemical capture course:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>National Animal Control Association; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Safe Capture International.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Local, State, Regional, or National Courses.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Local, State, regional, or national 2-day courses may be approved by the Board after the Board reviews the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Course content; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Instructor's knowledge of the topics covered.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The following information shall be submitted to the Board for its review:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Course curriculum;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Instructor's biography; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Other information the Board determines necessary for course approval.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Approval or denial for a 2-day course will be provided by the Board within 90 days after receipt of the information set forth in §E(2) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Board may withdraw at any time its approval of a previously approved training course.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>An owner shall submit proof of successful completion of training, as described in §§A—E of this regulation, for the responsible individual and each authorized employee:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>With each application for an animal control facility license; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Within 90 days of an employee's starting date if the employee was not employed at the time of application for an animal control facility license.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Quality Standards."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An owner licensed under this chapter shall ensure that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A drug is not used beyond its stated expiration date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Outdated drugs are labeled as such and are kept in a separate place within a securely locked safe until they can be disposed of properly;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Drug container labels are not:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Changed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Removed; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Altered;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Needles and syringes used by the animal control facility are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Of medical quality;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Appropriately sized for the animal control procedure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Used for not more than three euthanasia administrations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Checked for burrs or other damage before each use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Disposed of in a manner that makes reuse impossible; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Securely stored when not in use;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Drugs are not distributed to another animal control facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Drug administration equipment is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Kept in good working order; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Maintained as recommended by the manufacturer;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A dosage chart is available for each euthanasia solution or chemical restraint drug maintained at the animal control facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Written response protocols are available for accidental exposure of humans to euthanasia solutions or chemical restraint drugs maintained at the registered animal shelter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Bulk inventories of controlled substances are stored in a safe in a room other than the euthanasia room;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Unless an animal is sedated, a minimum of two individuals are present when performing an intravenous drug injection, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An authorized employee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>One or more other individuals to assist the authorized employee as a handler; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>An authorized employee documents animal control activities that involve controlled dangerous substances as set forth in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Outdated drugs may be disposed of in one of the following ways:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Administered to an animal after euthanasia;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Returned to the supplier for credit or replacement; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Sent to a DEA-registered reverse distributor for destruction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Animal Control Record Keeping."> <text>An owner licensed under this chapter shall ensure that:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Proper records of all animal control activities that involve the use of drugs are created and maintained;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A record of drugs used for animal control purposes received and used by an animal control facility are kept in a consecutively numbered bound book and meet the requirements of COMAR 10.19.03, including, but are not limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Inventory of all drug receipts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Drug administrations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any distributions of drugs;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The animal control and euthanasia records are maintained on the business premises for a period of at least 2 years;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The animal control facility records are filed and documented in chronological order to include, but not be limited to, the following information for each animal:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Identification of the animal, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Species; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Weight;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Drugs administered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Amount of the drug that was used for the procedure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Initials of the person who administered the drug; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Date of euthanasia or control procedure; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>All records are kept for a period of 2 years from the purchase date of the drug.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Training Substantiation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An owner shall keep an accurate record of an employee's approved training courses.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Board may request verification from an authorized employee or responsible individual concerning the employee's attendance at a Board-approved training course.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Penalties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After giving an owner notice and an opportunity to be heard, the Board may impose a civil penalty instead of, or in addition to, suspending or revoking an animal control facility license if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The owner or responsible individual fails to comply with the Board's requirements set forth in this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The owner fails to either:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Pay the annual fee required under Regulation .06 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Allow the Board to inspect the animal control facility during normal business hours.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Any license issued under this chapter is invalid for an owner whose designated responsible individual either ceases to qualify for that designation or leaves its employment, unless the owner has:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Given the Board at least 2 weeks written notice of the proposed change of status of the designated responsible individual; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Submitted the name of a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Meets the requirements of this chapter for designation as the responsible individual; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has been approved by the Board or its representative.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-304, 2-305, and 2-310.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 30, 1975 (2:9 Md. R. 678)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective August 3, 1992 (19:15 Md. R. 1393)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 amended effective March 29, 1993 (20:6 Md. R. 584)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation 10 amended as an emergency provision effective May 24, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 908); amended permanently effective September 13, 2004 (31:18 Md. R. 1351)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter, Issuance of Permits for the Use of Sodium Pentobarbital, repealed and new Chapter, Animal Control Facility Licenses, adopted as an emergency provision effective October 31, 2008 (35:24 Md. R. 2070); adopted permanently effective March 9, 2009 (36:5 Md. R. 424)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Health Certificate and Rabies Certificate for Companion Animals"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For the purpose of this chapter “companion animal” means any rabbit, bird, rodent, fish, reptile, amphibian, nonhuman primate, and other species of animal kept for pleasure rather than utility and accustomed to living in or about human habitation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Companion animal” also means any dog or cat, regardless of its utilitarian purpose.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Companion animal” does not include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Horses, cattle, sheep, goats, swine, or poultry; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any other animals kept for bona fide research or agricultural uses.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Information on Certificate."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When issuing a health certificate or a rabies certificate for a companion animal, a veterinarian may not issue a blank or incomplete certificate. The veterinarian’s signature shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Handwritten by the veterinarian; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An electronic signature of the veterinarian, affixed at the direction of the treating veterinarian at the time of vaccination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A health certificate shall contain (if applicable to the species), but not be limited to the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Owner's name;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Owner's address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Description of animal, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Age;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Sex;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Breed if purebred, or predominant breed type if of mixed breeding;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Family, such as canine, feline;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any pertinent medical history;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Any vaccinations administered, including date and type.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Certification of Health."> <text>If the animal in question is to be shipped out of state, the signature of the veterinarian, who shall be accredited in Maryland, shall be preceded by the following certification:</text> <text>I certify that I personally examined the animal(s) described hereon and have found same on this day to be free from visible signs of infectious, contagious, or communicable disease; that the results of any tests are as indicated above; that I am familiar with the stated entrance requirements of the state or county destination; and that this certificate is issued in compliance therewith.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Scope of Authority of these Regulations."> <text>Nothing contained within these regulations shall preempt, restrict, supersede, or duplicate the authority of the Secretary of Health in Health-General Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-304, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 3, 1975 (2:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .02 and .03 amended effective November 18, 1977 (4:24 Md. R. 1808)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02A amended effective December 2, 1996 (23:24 Md. R. 1683); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective May 6, 1985 (12:9 Md. R. 814)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 repealed and Regulation .04 recodified to Regulation .03 effective December 2, 1996 (23:24 Md. R. 1683)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective May 6, 1985 (12:9 Md. R. 814)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 adopted effective November 18, 1977 (4:24 Md. R. 1808)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 repealed and Regulation .06 recodified to Regulation .04 effective December 2, 1996 (23:24 Md. R. 1683)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="06" heading="" reason="VACANT" /> <chapter num="07" heading="Minimum Standards for Mobile Veterinary Clinics"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter applies to any veterinarian who operates a mobile veterinary clinic offering or providing veterinary services for companion animals.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <text>“Mobile veterinary clinic” means a mobile unit in which veterinary services are provided to animals that are treated inside the mobile unit.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Sanitation."> <text>To the extent practicable, a veterinarian who operates a mobile clinic shall comply with the sanitation practices outlined in COMAR 15.14.03.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Care of Medicine."> <text>A veterinarian who operates a mobile clinic shall provide for the refrigeration and proper care of medicine to be used at the mobile clinic.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Care of Equipment."> <text>A veterinarian who operates a mobile clinic shall provide for the proper care of equipment and the proper hygiene of employees. Proper hygiene includes the washing of hands and the sanitizing of examination tables.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Licensing Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A mobile veterinary clinic may not offer or provide veterinary services unless it has a valid hospital license.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The owner of more than one mobile veterinary clinic shall obtain a hospital license for each mobile clinic.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The licensing fee for a mobile veterinary clinic shall be the same as that required for a veterinary hospital.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The licensing requirements set forth in COMAR 15.14.03.01-1 also apply to mobile clinics.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Surgery."> <text>Surgery may not be performed at a mobile clinic unless the minimum standards set forth in COMAR 15.14.03.04 are met.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Oxygen Delivery."> <text>A suitably equipped area shall include a positive pressure oxygen delivery system for small animal patients where medically indicated, regardless of whether surgery is performed in the mobile veterinary clinic.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-304 and 2-304.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 6, 1978 (5:20 Md. R. 1501)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .02—.04 repealed effective January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter, Minimum Standards for Mobile Veterinary Clinics or House Call Practices repealed and new Regulations .01—.06 under Minimum Standards for Mobile Veterinary Clinics adopted effective December 2, 1996 (23:24 Md. R. 1684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 adopted effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="08" heading="Licensing and Certification of Veterinarians from Another State or Foreign Jurisdiction"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Requirements for Licensing and Certification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements. Subject to the provisions of this chapter, the Board may license and certify an applying veterinarian who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is licensed:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>In another state; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In a foreign jurisdiction and is a graduate of a school accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has satisfied one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Engaged in the clinical practice of veterinary medicine continuously for the preceding 5 years from application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Taught clinical veterinary medicine for the preceding 5 years from application at an institution accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Meets the requirements set forth in §B of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Has paid all appropriate fees; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Has passed the Board Examination, consisting of a notarized statement submitted to the Board, attesting to the fact that the applicant has read and comprehends the laws and regulations governing the practice of veterinary medicine in this State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Alternative Requirements to Requisite Clinical Experience. Subject to §§C and D of this regulation, in addition to meeting the requirements set forth in §A(1), (3), and (4) of this regulation, an applying veterinarian who fails to meet either §A(2)(a) or (b) of this regulation shall meet the following requirements before being considered for licensure by the Board:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant has not been absent from the practice of clinical veterinary medicine for longer than 5 consecutive years prior to application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>During the preceding 5-year period, the applicant has practiced clinical veterinary medicine for the equivalent of 3 full years, at a minimum;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The applicant submits licensure verification, or letters of good standing, from all licensing boards with which the applicant is currently licensed, or has ever been licensed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The applicant submits proof that during the 5-year period preceding application, the applicant maintained:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The type of continuing education accredited by the Board, as provided in COMAR 15.14.10.04; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The minimum number of hours required of Maryland licensed veterinarians during the same time period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Relocation Due to Government Service. If the applicant has not practiced clinical veterinary medicine for the equivalent of 3 full years during the 5-year period immediately preceding application to the Board in accordance with §B(2) of this regulation, the applicant shall submit proof to the Board of the following, as a substitute for the required years of clinical practice under §B(2) of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That either the applicant or the applicant's spouse served the government, and that this service resulted in relocation outside the United States; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>One of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>That the applicant has practiced clinical veterinary medicine for the equivalent of 10 full years over the applicant's veterinary career; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>That during the preceding 5-year period, the applicant has practiced clinical veterinary medicine for the equivalent 1 full year, at a minimum.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Acquiring Additional Continuing Education Credits. If the applicant has not taken the requisite type and number of continuing education credits during the 5-year period preceding application in accordance with §B(4)(a) and (b) of this regulation, the applicant shall take, and submit proof of having completed, a sufficient number of continuing education hours that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Meet the requirements set forth in §B(4)(a) and (b) of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Are clinically oriented or practical in nature.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An applicant shall submit proof of good moral character to the Board.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-304, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 15, 1979 (6:12 Md. R. 1053)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective January 18, 1982 (9:1 Md. R. 23)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 repealed and new Regulation .01 adopted effective May 18, 1987 (14:10 Md. R. 1172)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective June 25, 2001 (28:12 Md. R. 1112)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended as an emergency provision effective September 17, 2007 (34:21 Md. R. 1911); amended permanently effective March 10, 2008 (35:5 Md. R. 642)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="09" heading="Qualifications for Licensure, by Examination, as a Veterinarian"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter pertains to any individual applying to the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners for licensure, by examination, to practice veterinary medicine in this State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“AVMA” means the American Veterinary Medical Association.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“BCSE” means the Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination, developed by the American Veterinary Medical Association's Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Board Examination” means the reading and comprehension of the laws and regulations governing the practice of veterinary medicine in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“CCT” means the Clinical Competency Test prepared by the Professional Testing Service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“CPE” means the Clinical Proficiency Examination given by the AVMA.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“ECFVG” means the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Evaluated clinical experience” means a minimum of a 12-month period during which a PAVE candidate is evaluated by clinical faculty at an AVMA-accredited veterinary college.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Foreign veterinary graduate” or “FVG” means an individual who has received a professional veterinary medical degree from an AVMA-listed veterinary college which is not approved or accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Maryland State Examination” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Board Examination and the NAVLE;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The BCSE and CPE, if the applicant is an FVG; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Evaluated clinical experience, if the applicant is a PAVE graduate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“NAVLE” means the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination, produced by the National Board Examination Committee, assessing the applicant's practice competence for licensure as a veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“NBE” means the National Board Examination prepared by the Professional Examination Service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“NBVME” means the National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“PAVE” means the Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“PAVE graduate” means an individual who has been issued a certificate by the Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence after successfully completing a minimum of 12 months of evaluated clinical experience at a veterinary college accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“State Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Maryland State Examination."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Subject Matter.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Maryland State Examination shall consist of the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Board Examination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>NAVLE;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>BCSE and CPE, if the applicant is an FVG; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Evaluated clinical experience, if the applicant is a PAVE graduate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In lieu of a passing score on the NAVLE, the Board, as provided under §E(2) of this regulation, may accept an applicant's passing scores on the NBE and CCT.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Time and Place for Taking the NAVLE. The NBVME shall specify the times and locations for taking the NAVLE.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Passing Score for the NAVLE. The NBVME shall establish the passing score for the NAVLE. If the applicant passes the NAVLE, the applicant shall inform the NBVME to notify the State Board in writing of this accomplishment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Board Examination. To pass the Board Examination, an applicant shall read and comprehend the laws and regulations governing the practice of veterinary medicine in this State, and shall sign a statement before a notary public attesting to this fact or shall sign an online statement in conjunction with the Board’s online application process attesting to this fact with a signature that may be electronic.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>State Board's Acceptance of Passing Scores on Previously Taken Tests.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The NAVLE. If an applicant has previously taken and passed the NAVLE, the State Board shall accept the applicant’s passing score on it, if the passing score is not more than 7 years old. After this 7-year period, the applicant shall retake and pass the NAVLE to be eligible for licensure in this State, if the applicant does not meet the requirements set forth in COMAR 15.14.08 for veterinarians who are licensed in another state or foreign jurisdiction.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>NBE and CCT. If an applicant has previously taken and passed the NBE and CCT, the Board shall accept the applicant’s passing scores on these tests, if these scores are not more than 7 years old. After this 7-year period, the applicant shall take and pass the NAVLE to be eligible for licensure in this State, if the applicant does not meet the requirements set forth in COMAR 15.14.08 for veterinarians who are licensed in another state or foreign jurisdiction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Process for Taking the Maryland State Examination."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Eligibility. To be eligible to take the Maryland State Examination, an examination applicant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be graduated from an AVMA-accredited or approved school of veterinary medicine;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Be within approximately 8 months of graduating from an AVMA-accredited or approved school of veterinary medicine on the date the examination is taken;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If an FVG, be enrolled in, or have received a certificate from, the ECFVG program; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If a PAVE candidate, be enrolled in, or have received a certificate from, the PAVE.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Board Examination. To take the Board Examination, an applicant shall submit the following to the State Board within 1 year from the date the Board has received the application:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A complete and notarized examination application on a form provided by the Board or an online examination application developed by the Board and submitted online with a signature that may be electronic;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The application fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02, in the form of a check or money order, payable to the Maryland Department of Agriculture or in the form of an online credit card payment or other electronic payment submitted in conjunction with an online application developed by the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>One 2-inch by 3-inch headshot photograph of the applicant, taken within 6 months of the application date, with the applicant's complete signature on the photograph or a headshot photograph of the applicant, taken within 6 months of the application date, that is uploaded with an online application developed by the Board and attested to as true and accurate with a signature that may be electronic; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The following information pertaining to the applicant's schooling:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For the graduate of an AVMA-accredited or approved school of veterinary medicine, a school authenticated copy of the applicant's transcript or diploma, and, if applicable, an English translation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For the student within approximately 8 months of graduating from an AVMA-accredited or approved school of veterinary medicine, a letter from the school indicating the student's expected date of graduation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For the FVG:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A school authenticated copy of the applicant's veterinary medical school transcript, and, if applicable, an English translation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>An ECFVG certificate or, if currently enrolled in the ECFVG program, a letter from the school offering this program indicating the applicant's participation in it; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>For the PAVE candidate:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A school authenticated copy of the applicant’s veterinary medical school transcript or diploma and, if applicable, an English translation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A PAVE certificate or, if currently enrolled in the PAVE, a letter from the school offering this program indicating the applicant’s participation in it.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>NAVLE.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To sit for a scheduled NAVLE, an examination applicant shall submit to the NBVME, by a date specified by the NBVME, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The information specified under §B(4) of this regulation pertaining to the applicant's schooling, so that the NBVME may determine whether the applicant is eligible to take this examination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Completed NBVME application to take the NAVLE; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The requisite fees associated with taking the NAVLE.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the NBVME determines that the applicant is eligible to take the NAVLE, it shall notify the applicant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="License Issuance."> <text>Except as otherwise provided under COMAR 15.14.08, the Board may not issue a license to practice veterinary medicine in this State to an applicant unless the applicant:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Passes the Maryland State Examination, including submission of the notarized statement or submission of an online electronic signature in conjunction with an online application attesting to the fact that the applicant has read, and comprehends, the laws and regulations governing the practice of veterinary medicine in this State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Submits the following information pertaining to the applicant's schooling:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For the graduate of an AVMA-accredited or approved school of veterinary medicine, a school authenticated copy of the applicant's transcript or diploma, and, if applicable, an English translation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the FVG:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A school authenticated copy of the applicant's veterinary medical school transcript, and, if applicable, an English translation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Either:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A copy of the applicant's ECFVG certificate; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A copy of the applicant’s PAVE certificate; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Meets all other requirements specified by law.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="ECFVG."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Until June 30, 2012, an applicant shall obtain the clinical portion of the ECFVG program in one of the following ways:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtaining a passing score on a CPE approved by the ECFVG; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Completing 1 year of evaluated clinical experience at an AVMA-accredited or approved school of veterinary medicine if that evaluated clinical experience was completed by June 30, 2007.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After June 30, 2012, an applicant shall obtain the clinical portion of the ECFVG program by obtaining a passing score on a CPE approved by the ECFVG.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Notice of Pass or Fail of Maryland State Examination."> <text>The Board shall notify each candidate if the candidate passes or fails the Maryland State Examination.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Taking Examination After Failure."> <text>After failing the NAVLE, a candidate may take another examination by:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Making application directly to the NBVME; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Meeting all other conditions as specified by the NBVME or its authorized representative.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-304 and 2-307, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.11 adopted as an emergency provision effective January 15, 1980 (7:2 Md. R. 112); adopted permanently effective March 21, 1980 (7:6 Md. R. 609)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective July 5, 1982 (9:13 Md. R. 1354); October 7, 1985 (12:20 Md. R. 1930); February 3, 1992 (19:2 Md. R. 156)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02E amended effective November 7, 1983 (10:22 Md. R. 1968)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective July 5, 1982 (9:13 Md. R. 1354)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended effective January 23, 1981 (8:2 Md. R. 116); January 18, 1982 (9:1 Md. R. 23); November 7, 1983 (10:22 Md. R. 1968); October 7, 1985 (12:20 Md. R. 1930); February 3, 1992 (19:2 Md. R. 156); August 30, 1993 (20:17 Md. R. 1352)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03C adopted effective February 3, 1992 (19:2 Md. R. 156)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective January 18, 1982 (9:1 Md. R. 23)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective January 18, 1982 (9:1 Md. R. 23); July 5, 1982 (9:13 Md. R. 1354); November 7, 1983 (10:22 Md. R. 1968); October 7, 1985 (12:20 Md. R. 1930)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective July 5, 1982 (9:13 Md. R. 1354); November 22, 1982 (9:23 Md. R. 2261); November 7, 1983 (10:22 Md. R. 1968); October 7, 1985 (12:20 Md. R. 1930)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06C adopted effective June 1, 1987 (14:11 Md. R. 1261)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 repealed effective July 5, 1982 (9:13 Md. R. 1354)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 adopted effective November 7, 1983 (10:22 Md. R. 1968)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective October 7, 1985 (12:20 Md. R. 1930)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09B amended effective July 5, 1983 (10:13 Md. R. 1181)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09C adopted effective June 4, 1984 (11:11 Md. R. 963)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective November 19, 1984 (11:23 Md. R. 1994)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective July 17, 2000 (27:16 Md. R. 1519); revised permanently effective October 2, 2000 (27:19 Md. R.1729)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.05 and .07 amended effective June 25, 2001 (28:12 Md. R. 1112)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended as an emergency provision effective August 15, 2006 (33:18 Md. R. 1503); amended permanently effective December 7, 2006 (33:24 Md. R. 1906)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended as an emergency provision effective August 15, 2006 (33:18 Md. R. 1503); amended permanently effective December 7, 2006 (33:24 Md. R. 1906)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended as an emergency provision effective August 15, 2006 (33:18 Md. R. 1503); amended permanently effective December 7, 2006 (33:24 Md. R. 1906)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B, C amended as an emergency provision effective May 24, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 908); amended permanently effective September 13, 2004 (31:18 Md. R. 1351)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .08—.10 repealed effective June 25, 2001 (28:12 Md. R. 1112)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 adopted as an emergency provision effective August 15, 2006 (33:18 Md. R. 1503); adopted permanently effective December 7, 2006 (33:24 Md. R. 1906)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective June 29, 2007 (34:15 Md. R. 1347); revised permanently effective November 5, 2007 (34:22 Md. R. 1979)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective July 11, 2011 (38:14 Md. R. 790); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended effective July 11, 2011 (38:14 Md. R. 790); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03D amended effective December 17, 2018 (45:25 Md. R. 1206)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03E amended effective August 5, 2024 (51:15 Md. R. 711)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective July 11, 2011 (38:14 Md. R. 790)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended effective December 17, 2018 (45:25 Md. R. 1206)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A, B amended effective December 17, 2018 (45:25 Md. R. 1206)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective July 11, 2011 (38:14 Md. R. 790)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="10" heading="Continuing Education Requirements"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations apply to any person licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Continuing education courses” means courses that offer credit hours and includes seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops, and other programs that offer credit hours.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Credit hour” means 1 program hour.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Unused credit hour” means a credit hour which a practitioner earned in a given licensing year but did not use toward fulfilling the continuing professional education requirement for that year.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="New License."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A practitioner is exempt from providing proof to the Board of having met the continuing education requirement for 12 months from the license issuance date if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The practitioner is registering the veterinary license for the first time; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Reinstatement of the license is not required.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If a practitioner fails to register the veterinary license within 12 months following notification from the Board of having met the legal requirements for licensure, the practitioner shall meet the legal requirements for licensure, as provided in COMAR 15.14.08 or 15.14.09, as applicable.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="License Renewal."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §B of this regulation, the Board may not renew a practitioner's license unless that practitioner has earned 18 credit hours of continuing professional education during the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>12 months preceding the beginning of the new licensing year; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>24 months preceding the beginning of the new licensing year provided, however, that any credit hours earned before the 12 months preceding the beginning of the new licensing year are unused credit hours.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Board may conditionally renew a practitioner's license even though the requirements of §A of this regulation have not been met if the practitioner submits to the Board:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Satisfactory proof that these requirements reasonably cannot be met because of exigent circumstances, such as meeting or recently completing an armed services commitment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A plan showing that the practitioner will, within a reasonable period of time, complete the requirements of §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Accreditation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Accreditation by the Board of continuing education courses will be based only upon program content.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A minimum of 12 hours of continuing education courses shall be directed toward improvement, advancement, and extension of professional skill and knowledge relating to the practice of veterinary medicine. These courses shall have significant intellectual or practical content dealing primarily with information on skills directly related to the practice of veterinary medicine.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A maximum of 6 credit hours of continuing education courses may be directed toward non-scientific subjects relating to the practice of veterinary medicine, such as:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Practice management concepts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Communication skills;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>State regulatory programs; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Federal regulatory programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Credit hours may be approved for the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Continuing education courses given by a college of veterinary medicine approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Lectures and scheduled courses at national and regional meetings of the American Veterinary Medical Association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Continuing education courses given or arranged by the Maryland Veterinary Medical Association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Continuing education courses given or arranged by North American Veterinary Conference, Western Veterinary Conference, Central Veterinary Conference, or American Animal Hospital Association; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Local, State, regional, or national continuing education courses including postgraduate studies, institutes, seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops, extension studies, or other continuing education courses as approved by the Board. Requests for approval of postgraduate studies and extension studies shall be submitted to the Board no fewer than 60 days before the expiration of the veterinarian’s registration certificate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Approved credit hours may be obtained through available online continuing education courses.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>After review of course content, the Board may withdraw its approval of a previously accredited continuing education course.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A practitioner may apply any unused credit hours earned in a given licensing year toward fulfilling the following year's continuing professional education requirement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Credit Substantiation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A practitioner shall keep an accurate attendance record of approved continuing education courses.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Board may request verification from a practitioner concerning his or her attendance at any continuing education course.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a practitioner reports false or misleading information to the Board, that practitioner may be subject to Board discipline following a hearing.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Failure to Meet Requirements."> <text>A practitioner who fails to meet the continuing education requirements of this chapter may not practice veterinary medicine in the State. However, if a practitioner intends to practice veterinary medicine over the next licensing period, the practitioner shall renew the practitioner's registration not later than June 30 of each year by submitting to the Board proof of compliance with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-304(a)(1) and 2-306(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 23, 1981 (8:2 Md. R. 117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02C adopted effective March 16, 1992 (19:5 Md. R. 579)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended as an emergency provision effective May 21, 1991 18:12 Md. R. 1318); emergency status extended at 18:16 Md. R. 1809 (August 9, 1991); amended permanently effective October 28, 1991 (18:21 Md. R. 2310)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective March 16, 1992 (19:5 Md. R. 579)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended effective October 5, 2009 (36:20 Md. R. 1532)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997); October 5, 2009 (36:20 Md. R. 1532)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04C amended effective July 28, 1997 (24:15 Md. R. 1062)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04D amended effective March 16, 1992 (19:5 Md. R. 579)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective March 16, 1992 (19:5 Md. R. 579)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective March 6, 2023 (50:4 Md. R. 123)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05D amended effective March 6, 2023 (50:4 Md. R. 123)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05E amended effective July 16, 2018 (45:14 Md. R. 698); March 6, 2023 (50:4 Md. R. 123)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="11" heading="Civil Penalty Standards for Veterinarians"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes standards which determine the penalty for any licensed veterinarian who violates any statute or Board regulation governing the practice of veterinary medicine in this State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Penalty When License Suspended or Revoked."> <text>After a hearing, the Board may impose a penalty on a veterinarian:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Instead of or in addition to suspending a veterinarian's license; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In addition to revoking a veterinarian's license.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Violations."> <text>The Board may impose a penalty on a veterinarian who does any of the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Fails to provide direct supervision for employees;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Practices veterinary medicine without a current registration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Operates a veterinary hospital without a veterinary hospital license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Fails to conform to minimum sanitary standards for veterinary facilities;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Conducts a veterinary practice in a manner which violates professional and ethical standards;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Violates a Board regulation after receiving a license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Engages in false or misleading advertising;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Obtains a license to practice veterinary medicine by fraud or misrepresentation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Employs or permits an unlicensed person to practice veterinary medicine;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Employs or permits a veterinarian who does not possess a current veterinary registration to practice veterinary medicine;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Practices veterinary medicine without a valid license issued by the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="L."> <text>Conducts a veterinary practice incompetently;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="M."> <text>Violates any federal or State law relating to narcotic drugs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="N."> <text>Is convicted of a felony, or of a crime involving moral turpitude;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="O."> <text>Is deliberately cruel to an animal; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="P."> <text>Is grossly negligent in the practice of veterinary medicine.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Classification of Violations for the Purpose of Determining Penalties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For a violation of Regulation .03A—F of this chapter, a penalty may be imposed by the Board considering the nature and gravity of each violation consistent with the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For the first violation, a penalty of not less than $300 or more than $3,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the second violation, a penalty of not less than $600 or more than $6,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For the third and any subsequent violation, a penalty of not less than $3,000 or more than $10,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For a violation of Regulation .03G-J, a penalty may be imposed by the Board considering the nature and gravity of each violation consistent with the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For the first violation, a penalty of not less than $600 or more than $5,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the second violation, a fine of not less than $3,000 or more than $10,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For the third and any subsequent violation, a penalty of not less than $6,000 or more than $10,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For a violation of Regulation .03K—P of this chapter, a penalty may be imposed by the Board considering the nature and gravity of each violation consistent with the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For the first violation, a penalty of not less than $3,000 or more than $5,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the second violation, a penalty of not less than $6,000 or more than $10,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For the third and any subsequent violation, a penalty of not less than $8,000 or more than $10,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Appeal."> <text>A veterinarian may appeal the Board's decision to impose a penalty as provided in Agriculture Article, § 2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland. A veterinarian shall be notified of this right to appeal.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Penalty Payment."> <text>Unless a veterinarian appeals, the amount of a penalty shall be paid promptly to the Board.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-310.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 23, 1981 (8:2 Md. R. 117)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .03 and .04 amended effective November 7, 1983 (10:22 Md. R. 1968)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective September 12, 2005 (32:8 Md. R. 1521)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended as an emergency provision effective May 26, 2010 (37:13 Md. R. 850)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900); October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B, C amended as an emergency provision effective May 26, 2010 (37:13 Md. R. 850); adopted permanently effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04C amended effective September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="12" heading="Fees"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter governs all applicants for licenses or registration, licensees, and permit holders.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Fees."> <text>The following fees are established by the Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Initial registration fee for newly licensed and newly reinstated veterinarians:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Between July 1 and December 31 — $300;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Between January 1 and June 30 — $150.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Annual registration renewal fee —$300;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Veterinarian late registration fee — (additional) — $200;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Veterinarian reinstatement fee — $300;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Veterinarian State Board examination fee — $300;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Veterinary technician application fee — $100;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Veterinary technician registration fee (triennial) — $100;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Veterinary hospital license fee (annual) — $300;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Veterinary hospital late fee - (additional) — $200;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Animal control facility license (annual) — $100; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Letter of good standing fee — $25.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-303, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01 and .02 adopted as an emergency provision effective May 24, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 908); adopted permanently effective September 13, 2004 (31:18 Md. R. 1351)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900); April 2, 2012 (39:6 Md. R. 410); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487); July 1, 2016 (42:26 Md. R. 1596); April 15, 2024 (51:7 Md. R. 334)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02G, H amended effective August 29, 2016 (43:17 Md. R. 956)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="13" heading="Qualifications for Examination and Registration of a Veterinary Technician"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter applies to any person who makes application to the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners to be registered as a veterinary technician.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“AAVSB” means the American Association of Veterinary State Boards.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“AVMA” means the American Veterinary Medical Association.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Candidate for graduation” means a student who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is within approximately 3 months of graduating college with a degree in veterinary technology; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has a letter sent from the college to the Board’s office, indicating the student’s expected date of graduation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Committee” means the Veterinary Technician Committee of the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Maryland State Veterinary Technician Examination” means both the Veterinary Technician National Examination, and the State Board Examination for becoming a registered veterinary technician.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“PES” means the Professional Examination Service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Registered veterinary technician” means a person who is registered with the Board as a veterinary technician.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“VTNE” means the Veterinary Technician National Examination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Qualifications for Examination."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Eligibility Requirements for Graduates or Candidates for Graduation From Veterinary Technology Programs. To be eligible to take the State Board Examination, an examination applicant shall provide a final transcript from a school showing that the applicant is a graduate or candidate for graduation from a veterinary technology program approved by the AVMA.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Eligibility Requirements for Applicants Who do not Meet the Educational Criteria Set Forth in §A of this Regulation. To be eligible to take the State Board Examination, an examination applicant shall provide:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A school-authenticated transcript showing the applicant to be a holder of an associate’s degree or above, which includes a minimum of three credits with a passing grade of C or above in each of the following college level courses:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Biology I;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Biology II;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Microbiology;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Chemistry;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Anatomy and Physiology I; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Anatomy and Physiology II.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Proof of completion of 10,000 hours of work experience as a technician, with a signed affidavit from a supervising veterinarian specifying the number of hours worked and the dates worked;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A Maryland Technician Skill Assessment completed by a licensed veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Proof of having completed a minimum of 24 hours of veterinary technician continuing education; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Proof of having completed a minimum of 24 hours of work as a veterinary technician in a veterinary emergency facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Board Examination. To take the State Board Examination, an applicant shall submit the following to the State Board within 1 year from the date the Board has received the application:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A complete and notarized examination application on a form provided by the Board or an online examination application developed by the Board and submitted online with a signature that may be electronic;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The application fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02, in the form of a check or money order, payable to the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners or in the form of an online credit card payment or other electronic means deemed practical by the Board and submitted in conjunction with an online application developed by the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A 2-inch by 3-inch headshot photograph of the applicant taken within 6 months of the application date, with the applicant's complete signature on the photograph or an electronic headshot photograph of the applicant taken within 6 months of the application date that is uploaded with an online application developed by the Board and attested to as true and accurate with a signature that may be electronic; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>One of the following documents:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A final transcript from a school, as set forth in §A of this regulation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Proof of completion of certain coursework, as set forth in §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Unless timely filed and complete, an examination application shall be denied.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>VTNE.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Graduate of an AVMA-Accredited Program.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>To sit for a scheduled VTNE, an examination applicant who has graduated from an AVMA-accredited program shall submit to the AAVSB, by a date specified by the AAVSB, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The information specified under §A(1)(a) of this regulation pertaining to the applicant’s schooling, so that the AAVSB may determine whether the applicant is eligible to take this examination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A completed AAVSB application to take the VTNE; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The requisite fees associated with taking the VTNE.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the AAVSB determines that the applicant is eligible to take the VTNE, it shall notify the applicant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Other Type Graduate.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>To sit for a scheduled VTNE, an examination applicant who meets the eligibility requirements set forth in §B of this regulation shall have the school from which the applicant graduated submit to the Board a school authenticated copy of the applicant’s final transcript and, if applicable, an English translation, for its review. The applicant shall also provide the following information in writing to the Board:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Name of applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Telephone number or email address of applicant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the Board determines that the applicant is eligible to take the VTNE, it shall notify the applicant and the AAVSB.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Upon notification of eligibility to take the VTNE, the applicant shall submit the following to the AAVSB:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A completed AAVSB application to take the VTNE; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The requisite fees associated with taking the VTNE.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Maryland Examination — Time and Place."> <text>The AAVSB shall specify the times and locations for taking the VTNE.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Maryland State Examination — Subject Matter."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Exam Format. The Maryland State Veterinary Technician Examination is divided into two parts:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The VTNE; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The State Board Examination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The VTNE, written by veterinarians and veterinary technicians affiliated with the AAVSB, AVMA, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians of America and the Canadian Association of Animal Health Technologists and Technicians, tests a candidate's general knowledge on subjects relating to veterinary technology.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>To pass the State Board Examination, an applicant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Read and comprehend the laws and regulations governing registered veterinary technicians in this State; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sign a statement before a notary public or provide an electronic signature in conjunction with an online application developed by the Board attesting to this fact.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Examination — Passing Grade."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A candidate shall pass the VTNE. The VTNE shall be administered for those candidates who have not previously taken and passed the VTNE. Candidates who have previously taken and passed the VTNE shall provide the Committee with a report from the AAVSB’s Veterinary Information Verifying Agency showing that the candidate has passed the VTNE.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Passing Score for the VTNE. The PES shall establish the passing score for the VTNE.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>State Board's Acceptance of Passing Scores on Previously Taken Tests. If an applicant has previously taken and passed the Maryland State Veterinary Technician Examination, the State Board shall accept the applicant's score if the score is not more than 5 years old. After this 5-year period, the applicant shall take and pass this examination to be a registered veterinary technician if the applicant does not meet the qualifications set forth in Regulation .11 of this chapter for veterinary technicians who have practiced in another state or foreign jurisdiction.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Notice of Pass or Fail of VTNE."> <text>The AAVSB shall notify each candidate if the candidate passes or fails. Upon request, a candidate may be given the candidate's grade.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Taking Examination After Failure."> <text>After a failure on the VTNE, a candidate may take another examination by:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Making application directly to the AAVSB; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Meeting all other conditions as specified by the AAVSB or its authorized representative.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Fee Refunds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The fee associated with the State Board Examination is non-refundable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The fee associated with the VTNE shall be refunded in accordance with AAVSB’s policy on refunds.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Registration."> <text>The Board shall register an applicant as a registered veterinary technician who:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Meets the requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Meets the Committee's educational requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Passes the Committee's examination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Is of good moral character; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Is at least 18 years old.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Requirements of Veterinary Technicians from Another State or Foreign Jurisdiction."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Subject to the provisions of this regulation, the Board may register an applying veterinary technician who submits proof of meeting the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is registered in another state or a foreign jurisdiction and is a graduate of a school accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has been employed in a clinical practice as a veterinary technician continuously for the 5 years preceding application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Has paid all appropriate fees, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Has passed the Maryland State Veterinary Technician Examination, as defined in Regulation .02B(6) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An applicant shall submit proof of good moral character to the Board.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Registration Renewal."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A registration is issued for 3 years and expires on June 30 on the third year after the date issued, unless the applicant renews the applicant's registration by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submitting a renewal application on the form that the Committee requires;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Paying to the Board a renewal fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Satisfactorily completing Committee-approved continuing education requirements, as provided in COMAR 15.14.16.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Board shall renew a lapsed registration of less than 5 years, if the applicant:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submits a renewal application in a manner the Board requires;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Submits proof of satisfactorily completing at least 8 hours of Committee-approved continuing educational requirements, as provided in COMAR 15.14.16, for each year the registration is considered to be lapsed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pays to the Board a renewal fee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Is otherwise entitled to be registered.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Board shall reinstate a lapsed registration of 5 years or more if the applicant:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submits a reinstatement application in a manner the Board requires;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Submits proof of satisfactorily completing at least 8 hours of Committee-approved continuing educational requirements, as provided in COMAR 15.14.16, for each year the registration is considered to be lapsed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pays to the Board a reinstatement fee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Submits letters of good standing, as applicable, from any other state veterinary boards under which the applicant is, or has been, registered.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Duties and Restrictions on Registered Veterinary Technicians."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A registered veterinary technician may not:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Diagnose;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Offer prognosis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Prescribe:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Drugs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Medication;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Appliances;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Perform surgery; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Initiate treatment without prior instruction by a veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A registered veterinary technician may perform the following procedures under the responsible direct supervision of a veterinarian:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Inducing anesthesia by intramuscular injection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Applying casts and splints;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Simple dental extractions of loose teeth that do not involve flaps or tooth sectioning;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Suturing of existing surgical skin or gingival incisions; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Accessing a small working stock of Schedule II drugs under separate lock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A registered veterinary technician may perform anesthetic induction by inhalation or intravenous injection if the veterinarian is able to maintain direct visual supervision of the technician’s performance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A registered veterinary technician may administer medication and render other auxiliary or supporting assistance not referenced in §B of this regulation under the responsible direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Emergency Conditions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Under emergency conditions only, the following activities may be performed by a registered veterinary technician before a veterinarian’s initial examination of an animal:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Provide supportive care and first aid; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Follow written protocols for specific conditions, as established by the veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If a veterinarian is not available to perform an initial examination of an animal that is presented as an emergency, a registered veterinary technician shall notify the animal’s owner of the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Veterinarian’s unavailability;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Estimated time of arrival of the veterinarian; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Estimated distance to another veterinary hospital.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If employed at a veterinary hospital, a veterinary technician shall display at that facility the registration that the Board issued to the veterinary technician.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Sanctions."> <text>The Board may refuse to register an applicant, suspend or revoke the registration, reprimand and censure, or place on probation any registered veterinary technician, if the registered veterinary technician:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Practices veterinary medicine;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Fraudulently or deceptively obtains a registration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Is professionally, physically, or mentally incompetent;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Acts in an unprofessional or immoral manner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Is convicted of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Is convicted of a violation of any federal or State law relating to narcotic drugs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Is grossly negligent or deliberately cruel to an animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Violates any provision of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Agriculture Article, §2-309, Annotated Code of Maryland,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>This chapter; or</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Is determined by the Board to be incompetent as a registered veterinary technician.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-309, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.13 adopted as an emergency provision effective March 13, 1985 (12:7 Md. R. 696); emergency status expired June 1, 1985; adopted permanently effective October 7, 1985 (12:20 Md. R. 1930)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194); December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1920)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended effective October 11, 1993 (20:20 Md. R. 1573); December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1920)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended as an emergency provision effective May 24, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 908); amended permanently effective September 13, 2004 (31:18 Md. R. 1351)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1920)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A, B amended effective December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1920)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05C amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended effective December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1920)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06B amended effective March 20, 1989 (16:5 Md. R. 630); March 9, 1998 (25:5 Md. R. 370); December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1920)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06C adopted effective December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1920)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1920)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended effective October 11, 1993 (20:20 Md. R. 1573)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended as an emergency provision effective May 24, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 908); amended permanently effective September 13, 2004 (31:18 Md. R. 1351)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12B amended and C adopted effective December 2, 1996 (23:24 Md. R. 1684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12D adopted effective March 9, 1998 (25:5 Md. R. 370)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13 amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective December 1, 2005 (32:26 Md. R. 1994); revised permanently effective February 27, 2006 (33:4 Md. R. 353)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433); October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433); October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03C amended effective December 17, 2018 (45:25 Md. R. 1206)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997); April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05C amended effective December 17, 2018 (45:25 Md. R. 1206)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A, B amended effective April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06B amended effective January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 amended effective April 4, 2011 (38:7 Md. R. 433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 amended effective August 13, 2007 (34:16 Md. R. 1433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12B, C amended effective December 17, 2018 (45:25 Md. R. 1206)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13 amended effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="14" heading="Minimum Standards for a Limited Use Veterinary Hospital"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter applies to a person who owns or participates in the operation of a limited use veterinary hospital as defined by this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Limited Use Veterinary Hospital.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Limited use veterinary hospital” means a building or portion of a building that is regularly used for the treatment of animals on a limited basis without involving surgical procedures by a veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Limited use veterinary hospital” includes a facility with services such as vaccinations, heartworm and fecal tests, and the dispensing of preventative medicines.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, business entity, or veterinarian who owns, operates, or is involved in the ownership or operation of a limited use veterinary hospital.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Licensing Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For each licensing year, July 1 through June 30, an owner or operator shall apply for a limited use veterinary hospital license on a Board form and pay the applicable annual fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may not operate a limited use veterinary hospital unless the person holds a valid limited use veterinary hospital license.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>After giving a person notice and an opportunity to be heard, the Board may reject that person's application for a limited use veterinary hospital license, or suspend or revoke a limited use veterinary hospital license the Board previously issued if the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Veterinary hospital does not meet the minimum requirements for a limited use veterinary hospital as provided under this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Applicant, owner, or operator fails to pay the required annual fee; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Applicant, owner, or operator fails to allow the Board to inspect the facility during normal business hours.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A holder of a limited use veterinary hospital license may not transfer the license to another.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Minimum Standards."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who owns or operates a limited use veterinary hospital is responsible for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Keeping the hospital area clean where veterinary service is performed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Having a separate room, in the building where limited use veterinary hospital services are performed, which:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is of adequate size;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Shall have adequate lighting and an examination table where the service is performed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>May only be used for limited use veterinary hospital services; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>May not be used for any other purpose such as storage, grooming, or boarding animals;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Proper refrigeration and proper care of medicine used at the limited use veterinary hospital as required by applicable medicine label instructions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Handling waste materials that are generated from an animal that does not have a disease transmissible to humans as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Sharps, including but not limited to syringes, needles, and surgical instruments, shall be placed in a rigid, tightly lidded container that is impervious to puncture and the container shall be placed in a leak-proof plastic sack or plastic-lined paper bag before disposal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Animal tissues, including blood if it is in liquid form, shall be placed in one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Sanitary sewer if allowed under any local ordinance or regulation and the Environment Article, Annotated Code of Maryland,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Leak-proof disposable container, such as a plastic sack or a plastic-lined paper bag, which, before disposal in a legally acceptable manner, shall be placed in a rigid, opaque container;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Keeping a positive pressure oxygen delivery system for small animal patients where medically indicated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Keeping records at the hospital for 3 years showing the veterinarian's name, date of service, animal owner's name, and service given and upon request by the board or a client making all records available for inspection; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Posting the hospital's limited use veterinary hospital license in the immediate area where limited veterinary services are provided.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A surgical procedure may not be performed at a limited use veterinary hospital.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-304.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 15, 1996 (23:14 Md. R. 1011)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A amended effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="15" heading="Required Animal Cruelty Reporting"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to explain when a treating veterinarian is required to report animal cruelty to the appropriate law enforcement or local animal control agency. This chapter also explains the requirements for reporting and confidentiality.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Animal” means a living creature except a human being that is privately owned, strays, domesticated, feral, farm animals, corporately or institutionally owned, or used in privately, locally, State, or federally funded activities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Animal cruelty” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Overdriving, overloading, torturing, tormenting, or cruelly beating an animal, depriving an animal of necessary sustenance, or causing, procuring, or authorizing these acts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Inflicting unnecessary suffering or pain upon an animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If a person has charge or custody of an animal, as owner or otherwise, unnecessarily failing to provide an animal with nutritious food in sufficient quantity, necessary veterinary care, proper drink, air, space, shelter, or protection from the weather;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Using or permitting to be used any bird, fowl, or cock for the purpose of fighting with any other animal, which is commonly known as cockfighting;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Using or permitting to be used any dog for the purpose of fighting with any other animal; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Any conduct that violates Criminal Law Article, §§10-604, 10-606, 10-607, and 10-608, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Has reason to believe” means that a veterinarian suspects but may not actually know that an animal has been subject to cruelty.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Law enforcement agency” means the local law enforcement or animal control agency that enforces animal cruelty laws.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Reports in good faith” means that a veterinarian has filed the report with a sincere and honest intention.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Timely” means as soon as possible but no later than 24 hours from the time that a veterinarian has reason to believe of possible animal cruelty.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Veterinarian” means a licensed and registered veterinarian engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Reporting Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A treating veterinarian who has reason to believe that any animal treated has been subjected to animal cruelty shall promptly report the suspected instance of cruelty to the appropriate law enforcement agency in a timely manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The report shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The name, age, and location of the animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The name and home address of the owners or custodian of the animal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The nature and extent of the suspected animal cruelty, including any evidence or information available concerning possible previous instances of animal cruelty; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other information that would help determine:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The cause of the suspected animal cruelty; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The identity of any individual responsible for the suspected animal cruelty.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A veterinarian making a report under this chapter shall document the report by recording and maintaining a record of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The date and time of the report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The identity of the local law enforcement or animal control agency to which the report was made;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The identity of any person employed by the local law enforcement or county animal control agency where the report was made;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The substance of any instructions or advice received from local law enforcement or county animal control; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any other information documenting that the report was made and received by a local law enforcement or animal control agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Records reflecting reports under this chapter shall be maintained for three years by the veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A veterinarian who reports in good faith a suspected incident of animal cruelty or participates in an investigation of suspected animal cruelty is immune:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>From civil liability that results from this report or from participation in the investigation, in accordance with Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §5-424, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>From criminal prosecution for the report or participation in the investigation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Board shall maintain a list of the appropriate law enforcement agencies that a veterinarian shall contact for reporting purposes.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Confidentiality."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in this regulation, the following records are confidential and may not be released:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Records and reports, including the information provided in the records and reports, filed by a veterinarian under this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The veterinarian’s identity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The unauthorized disclosure of any record or report including any information provided in the record or report or the disclosure of the identity of the veterinarian who filed the report, is a criminal offense subject to the penalty provided in Agriculture Article, Title 12, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Procedures to Protect Confidentiality. Each law enforcement agency subject to this chapter shall adopt confidential procedures that protect the identity of the veterinarian who makes a cruelty report and the report itself, including any information from the report, as follows.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All employees who handle cruelty reports required by this chapter shall be trained to keep the above information confidential and instructed not to release it to any person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each employee shall be trained on the requirements of this chapter and informed of the consequences of releasing any confidential information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All confidential information shall be kept in a secure location.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>All employees shall be trained in the requirements of the Public Information Act and how to protect confidential information.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Release of Confidential Information.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The substance of any cruelty report filed by a veterinarian under this chapter, and any records associated with the report may only be released:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>By a court order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If required by another law; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>With the consent of the veterinarian who filed the report.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A law enforcement agency shall release any records and reports required by this chapter to the Board upon request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Disciplinary Action Against a Veterinarian."> <text>If a veterinarian fails to comply with the reporting requirements of this chapter, the Board may suspend or revoke a veterinarian’s license, censure or place the veterinarian on probation.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103, 2-304, 2-310, and 2-313.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 17, 2003 (30:3 Md. R. 181)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.03 repealed and new Regulations .01—.05 adopted effective December 31, 2018 (45:26 Md. R. 1249)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="16" heading="Continuing Education Requirements for Registered Veterinary Technicians"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter applies to any person registered to practice veterinary technology in the State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>“AVMA” means the American Veterinary Medical Association.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>“Board” means the Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>“Committee” means the Veterinary Technician Committee of the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>“Continuing education courses” means courses that offer credit hours and includes seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops, and other programs that offer credit hours.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>“Credit hour” means 1 program hour.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>“Unused credit hour” means a credit hour which a practitioner earned in a given licensing year but did not use toward fulfilling the continuing education requirement for that year.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Registration Renewal."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §B of this regulation, the Board may not renew a veterinary technician's registration unless that veterinary technician has earned 24 credit hours of continuing education during the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>36 months preceding the beginning of the new registration period; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>72 months preceding the beginning of the new registration period provided, however, that any credit hours earned before the 36 months preceding the beginning of the new registration period are unused credit hours.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Board may conditionally renew a veterinary technician's registration even if the requirements of §A of this regulation have not been met if the veterinary technician submits to the Board:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Satisfactory proof that these requirements reasonably cannot be met because of exigent circumstances, such as meeting or recently completing an armed services commitment; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A plan showing that the veterinary technician will, within a reasonable period of time, complete the requirements of §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Accreditation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Accreditation of continuing education courses by the Committee shall be based upon content. Continuing education courses shall be directed towards improvement, advancement, enhancement, and extension of professional skills and knowledge relating to the practice of veterinary technology.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Credit hours may be approved for the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Continuing veterinary technician education programs given by colleges of veterinary medicine or veterinary technology approved by the AVMA;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Lectures and scheduled courses at national and regional meetings of the AVMA;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Continuing education courses given or arranged by the AVMA;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Local, state, regional, or national continuing professional education courses, including graduate and postgraduate studies, institutes, seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops, and extension studies; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Continuing education courses available online.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>After review of course content, the Committee may withdraw its approval of a previously accredited continuing education course.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Credit Substantiation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A veterinary technician shall keep an accurate attendance record of approved continuing education courses.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Board may request verification from a veterinary technician concerning the technician's attendance at any continuing education course.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a veterinary technician reports false or misleading information to the Board, the veterinary technician may be subject to Board discipline following a hearing.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Failure to Meet Requirements."> <text>The Board may refuse to reregister a registered veterinary technician who fails to meet the continuing education requirements of this chapter. However, if a veterinary technician intends to practice veterinary technology over the next registration period, the veterinary technician shall renew the technician's registration not later than June 30 of each 3-year period by submitting to the Board proof of compliance with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-309, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: August 13, 2007 (34:16 Md. R. 1433)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02D—F adopted effective March 6, 2023 (50:4 Md. R. 123)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900); March 6, 2023 (50:4 Md. R. 123)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended effective March 6, 2023 (50:4 Md. R. 123)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="17" heading="Requirements for Practical Training of Veterinary Students"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to establish the terms and conditions under which a veterinarian may supervise the practical training of a veterinary medical student.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Application."> <text>This chapter applies to all veterinary practitioners in the State who supervise veterinary medical students who practice veterinary medicine.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“AVMA” means the American Veterinary Medical Association.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Responsible direct supervision” means competent, immediate, and active supervision by a veterinary practitioner. The veterinary practitioner shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>In the immediate vicinity of where the work is being performed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Actively engaged in supervising this work throughout the entire period it is being performed, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Providing clear and specific directions on what work is to be done;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Being cognizant of how the assigned work is being performed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Being immediately available to provide advice when the assigned work is being performed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Shelter owner” means a person who rents, leases, or otherwise has control of the premises where the facility is located.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Veterinary practitioner” means a licensed and registered veterinarian engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Veterinary preceptee” means a student of veterinary medicine practicing veterinary medicine who has successfully completed 3 years of veterinary education at an institution approved by the Board and who works under the responsible direct supervision of a veterinary practitioner.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Requirements of Veterinary Practitioners."> <text>A veterinary practitioner who offers practical training to a veterinary medical school student shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Ensure that the veterinary medical school student meets the definition of a veterinary preceptee before permitting the student to practice veterinary medicine under the responsible direct supervision of the veterinary practitioner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Provide responsible direct supervision to the veterinary preceptee at all times the veterinary preceptee is working with a patient.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Upon request by the Board, or the Board's representative, provide written documentation evidencing the validity of the practical training instruction being given by the veterinary practitioner to the veterinary preceptee. This documentation shall indicate, at a minimum, that the veterinary medical school student has been approved, by the veterinary medical college at which the student is enrolled, to participate in practical training. This documentation shall be maintained at the hospital where the veterinary practitioner is employed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Written Approval from Client."> <text>Before allowing a veterinary preceptee to perform surgery on a patient unassisted by the veterinary practitioner, the veterinary practitioner shall obtain written approval from the client. This written approval shall include, at a minimum, the following information:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Client's name;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Pet's name;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A statement which indicates the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The number of years successfully completed by the veterinary preceptee at an AVMA-accredited school of veterinary medicine;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That the veterinary practitioner providing responsible direct supervision to the veterinary preceptee is educationally, medically, and legally responsible for any medical, surgical, diagnostic, and therapeutic decisions made by the veterinary preceptee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>That any unassisted surgical procedures will be carried out only when the veterinary practitioner is providing direct supervision;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A statement that any and all questions about the work to be performed by the veterinary preceptee on the client's pet have been answered to the client's satisfaction;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A statement or list of procedures to be performed that the client can either accept or reject;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The client's, or authorized agent's, printed name and signature;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The veterinary practitioner's printed name and signature; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The date the written form is completed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Written Approval from Humane Society or Animal Shelter."> <text>Provided an animal upon which surgery is to be performed is owned by a humane society or animal shelter, and the surgery is to be performed in the humane society or animal shelter, the veterinary practitioner shall obtain written approval from the owner of the humane society or animal shelter before allowing the veterinary preceptee to perform any surgeries upon animals unassisted by the veterinary practitioner. This written approval may cover the entire period during which the veterinary preceptee is working under the responsible direct supervision of a veterinary practitioner. This written approval shall include, at a minimum, the following information:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Name of humane society or animal shelter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A statement which indicates the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The number of years successfully completed by the veterinary preceptee at an AVMA-accredited school of veterinary medicine;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That the veterinary practitioner providing responsible direct supervision to the veterinary preceptee is educationally, medically, and legally responsible for any medical, surgical, diagnostic, and therapeutic decisions made by the veterinary preceptee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>That any unassisted surgical procedures will be carried out only when the veterinary practitioner is providing direct supervision;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A statement that any and all questions about the work to be performed by the veterinary preceptee on the animals have been answered to the satisfaction of the shelter owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A statement or list of anticipated procedures to be performed that the shelter owner can either accept or reject;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The shelter owner's, or authorized agent's, printed name and signature;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The veterinary practitioner's printed name and signature; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The date the written form is completed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Penalties."> <text>After giving a veterinary practitioner notice and an opportunity to be heard, the Board may impose a civil penalty instead of, or in addition to, suspending or revoking the veterinarian's license if the veterinarian fails to comply with the Board's requirements set forth in this chapter.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-301 and 2-304, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.07 adopted as an emergency provision effective May 26, 2010 (37:13 Md. R. 850); adopted permanently effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="15" heading="Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation"> <chapter num="01" heading="Guidelines for the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program was created by the Maryland General Assembly to preserve productive agricultural land and woodland which provides for the continued production of food and fiber for the citizens of the State. This program is administered by the Board of Trustees of the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (the Foundation). The preservation of agricultural land will curb the spread of urban sprawl and protect agricultural land and woodland as open space land.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01-1" heading="Program Summary."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation program is voluntary on the part of landowners and is dependent upon the cooperation of local government. This program requires local governments to appoint agricultural preservation advisory boards that assist in the creation of agricultural preservation districts where the subdivision and development of land is restricted by agreement between the landowner and the Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation, and where agricultural and woodland production activities are encouraged and protected. If a landowner requests that this property be included in a district, that property must meet minimum criteria as established by the Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation. If an easement has not been sold to the Foundation, a landowner may terminate after 5 years his property's inclusion in a district. Notice to terminate must be given 1 year in advance of the termination date.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A landowner who includes his land within a district will receive the following benefits:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Direct and indirect support of agriculture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Insulation of normal agricultural activities from nuisance complaints; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Eligibility to make an application to sell an agricultural land preservation easement to the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Once land is in an agricultural preservation district, a landowner may make application to sell an easement to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation. The application will indicate the price of any easement offered. The maximum value of this easement is determined as the difference between the land's agricultural use value and its fair market value as determined by appraisals. However, the Foundation has the discretion to select those easements which it shall purchase. Purchased easements may be reviewed after a 25-year period, and if profitable farming is found not to be feasible, an easement may be terminated by repurchase.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01-2" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In these regulations, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Adjoining” means having a common border.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agricultural land preservation easement” or “easement” means a negative servitude which restricts a landowner's right to use the land for any commercial, industrial, or residential purpose except as otherwise permitted by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Agricultural use” means any use of land which directly contributes to the production, processing, or storage of agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Contiguous” means having a common border.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Profitable farming feasibility” means the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Potential for yielding an excess of returns over expenditures through agricultural production and transactions as influenced and determined by productive capability of the subject land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Existence and proximity of markets for agricultural products; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Relative profitability of agricultural pursuits on adjacent and nearby lands.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Severe economic hardship” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A state of financial peril of a landowner as evidenced by bankruptcy proceedings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The results of natural disaster or farm owner/operator disability; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>As determined by the Board of Trustees on a case-by-case basis.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Agricultural Preservation Advisory Boards."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In each county containing productive agricultural land, the county governing body shall appoint a five-member agricultural preservation advisory board as provided by law (Agriculture Article, §2-504.1).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The appointment of an agricultural preservation advisory board shall be a prerequisite to program eligibility for landowners in each county.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Agricultural preservation advisory boards shall have the following responsibilities and duties:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To advise the county governing body with respect to the establishment of agricultural preservation districts and the approval of purchases of easements by the Foundation within the county;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>To assist the county governing body in reviewing the status of agricultural preservation districts and land under easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>To advise the Foundation concerning county priorities for agricultural land preservation, and to develop, for consideration by the county governing body, criteria which may expand upon Foundation criteria and priorities relative to size, productive capability, and location of land eligible in the program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>To promote the preservation of agriculture within the county by offering information and assistance to farmers with respect to the establishment of agricultural preservation districts and the purchase of easements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>To perform any other duties as assigned by the county governing body.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Agricultural Preservation Districts."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Conditions for Establishment.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To establish a district, a landowner shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>File a petition as provided under §B of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the petition is approved as provided under this regulation, execute a district agreement in the form prescribed by the Foundation, agreeing, among other things, that the following covenants, conditions, and restrictions contained in it run with the land covered by the agreement for so long as the agreement remains in effect:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The landowner agrees to keep the land in agricultural use in a district for, except as otherwise permitted by law, a minimum period of 5 years from the date the district agreement is recorded in the land records of the county where the district is located;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The landowner agrees not to use the land for any commercial, industrial, or residential purpose, except as otherwise permitted by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The landowner agrees not to subdivide the land for any purpose unless the Foundation first has approved the proposed subdivision; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>The landowner agrees not to construct buildings or structures on the land that are not designed or intended to be used for agricultural purposes unless the Foundation first has approved the proposed construction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Foundation may only purchase an easement on land in a district.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Petition for Establishment.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>One or more owners of land actively devoted to agricultural use within an eligible county may voluntarily file a petition with the county governing body requesting the establishment of an agricultural preservation district composed of the land owned by the petitioners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The petition shall include a general description of each land parcel including acreage and the current use of the land and shall be accompanied by a map or plat of each subject parcel at a scale no smaller than 1 inch equals 600 feet (copy of tax map will meet requirement).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The petition also shall be accompanied by a district agreement for each subject parcel signed by the landowner or landowners.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The petition and district agreement shall be submitted to the local governing body.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Agricultural Preservation District Establishment — Procedures.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Referral of Petition.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Upon receipt of a petition to establish an agricultural preservation district, the local governing body shall refer the petition and accompanying materials to both the agricultural preservation advisory board and to the county planning and zoning body.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Within 60 days of the referral of a petition, the agricultural preservation advisory board shall inform the county governing body whether the land in the proposed district meets the qualifications established by the Foundation under §D of this regulation, and whether the advisory board recommends establishment of the district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Within 60 days of the referral of a petition, the county planning and zoning body shall inform the local governing body whether establishment of the district is compatible with existing and approved county plans, programs, and overall county policy, and whether the planning and zoning body recommends establishment of the district. In the process of review, the local planning and zoning body shall consider compatibility of district establishment with State and local plans and programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If either the agricultural preservation advisory board or the planning and zoning body recommends approval, the county governing body shall hold a public hearing on the petition. Adequate notice of the hearing shall be given to all landowners in the proposed district, to landowners adjacent to the proposed district, as far as feasible, and to the Foundation. If neither body recommends approval of the petition, the local governing body shall deny the petition and notify the landowner or landowners and the Foundation stating the reasons for the denial.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Approval of Petition.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Within 120 days after the receipt of the petition, the county governing body shall render a decision on whether the petition shall be recommended to the Foundation for approval.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the county governing body decides to recommend approval of the petition, this body shall so notify the Foundation and forward to the Foundation the petition and all accompanying materials, including the recommendations of the advisory board and county planning and zoning body, and a composite property boundary map of the proposed district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the county governing body recommends denial of the petition, it shall so inform the Foundation and the petitioner or petitioners, stating the reasons for this denial.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Foundation may approve a petition for the establishment of an agricultural preservation district only if:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The land within the proposed district meets the qualifying criteria established under §D of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Approval of the petition has been recommended by the county governing body; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Establishment of the district is approved by a majority of the Foundation Board of Trustees at-large, by the Secretary, and by the State Treasurer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The Foundation shall render its decision on a petition to establish an agricultural preservation district within 60 days of the receipt of the petition, and shall inform the county governing body and the petitioner (or petitioners) of its decision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>If the Foundation approves the petition, the agricultural preservation district shall be established by the county governing body. However, the establishment may not take effect until all parties have executed agricultural preservation district agreements and until these agreements have been recorded in the land records of the county. The Foundation shall do the recording. The Foundation shall notify the landowner and the local governing body of the effective date of district establishment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Ordinance.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Each county shall establish an ordinance relative to all agricultural preservation districts.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The ordinance shall provide that, within the district:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Any farm use of land is permitted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Operation at any time of machinery used in farm production or the primary processing of agricultural products is permitted; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Normal agricultural operations performed in accordance with good husbandry practices, which do not cause bodily injury or directly endanger human health, are permitted, including the sale of farm products produced on the farm where the sales are made.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Local governments are encouraged to minimize regulatory requirements for non-residential farm structures and related agricultural improvements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>The establishment of a district does not grant the public any right of access or right of use of subject properties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Agricultural Preservation Districts — Qualifying Criteria.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Productive Capability Criteria.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Agricultural preservation districts shall consist of land which is either used primarily for the production of food or fiber or is of such open space character and productive capability that continued agricultural production is feasible.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Soils Criteria.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The majority of the land of any district shall consist of U.S.D.A. Soil Capability Classes I, II, and III;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The majority of the land area of any district shall consist of U.S.D.A. Woodland Groups 1 and 2 which are applied to wooded areas only;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The majority of the land area of any district less the acreage contained within the 100-year floodplain as delineated on Flood Hazard Boundary Maps produced by the Federal Emergency Management Administration and State or federal designated wetlands shall consist of U.S.D.A. Soil Capability Classes I, II, and III on cropland and pasture or Woodland Groups 1 and 2 on wooded areas only;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>A minimum of 60 percent of the land area of any district shall consist of U.S.D.A. Soil Capability Classes I, II, and III on cropland and pasture and Woodland Groups 1 and 2 on woodland areas; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>A minimum of 60 percent of the land area of any district less the acreage contained within the 100-year floodplain and State or federal wetlands shall consist of U.S.D.A. Soil Capability Classes I, II, and III on cropland and pasture and Woodland Groups 1 and 2 on wooded areas.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Exceptions to §D(1)(b)(i)—(v) of this regulation may include land areas of lower soil capabilities, but with a rating similar to Classes I, II, and III on cropland and pasture and Woodland Groups I and II on woodland areas. Land with lower soil capabilities may qualify to be in a district if the soils on the applicant's farm otherwise comply with all the requirements of this section and the applicant submits to the Foundation a letter from the appropriate U.S. Department of Agriculture district conservationist that states that the soils on the applicant's farm have a cropland or pasture rating similar to Classes I, II, and III, or Woodland Groups I and II. Farm areas with extensive specialized production, including but not limited to dairying livestock, poultry, fruit, or berry production may also be considered by the Foundation to be included in a district.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>District Size Criteria.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An agricultural preservation district shall be 100 contiguous acres. However, a parcel of less than 100 acres may qualify as a district if:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>It adjoins a 100-acre parcel which has been approved by the Foundation as an agricultural preservation district;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>It is added to one or more adjoining parcels which together have been approved by the Foundation as agricultural preservation districts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The land has extraordinary agricultural capability as provided by §D(5) of this regulation and is of significant size; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>It adjoins land subject to a recorded instrument which permits agricultural activities and contains restrictions that are the same as or more stringent than those found in the Foundation's deed of easement, and the collective mass of these lands total at least 100 acres.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Foundation may not purchase an agricultural preservation easement from a landowner of a district of less than 100 acres unless:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>It is contiguous to a district or districts on which a 100-acre easement has been purchased;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The landowners in the adjoining districts which are each less than 100 acres but total at least 100 acres accept the Foundation's offer to purchase an easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The land has extraordinary agricultural capability as provided by §D(5) of this regulation and is of significant size; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>It adjoins land subject to a recorded instrument which permits agricultural activities and contains restrictions that are the same as or more stringent than those found in the Foundation's deed of easement, and the collective mass of these lands total at least 100 acres.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Locational Criteria. Land within the boundaries of a 10-year water and sewerage service district may be included in an agricultural preservation district only if that land is outstanding in productivity and is of significant size. Note: Refer to County Water and Sewerage Plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Agricultural land which is otherwise qualified for district establishment and is comprised predominantly of land of lower general capability also may meet minimum qualifying criteria if the following conditions are met to the satisfaction of the Foundation:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The agricultural preservation advisory board of the county in which the land is located shall obtain general information from the Agricultural Extension Agent and specific written information from the soil conservation district in the county, and such other sources as might be applicable, addressing the long-term productivity of the land and farm management practices, and shall forward this documentation to both the local governing body and to the Foundation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The agricultural preservation advisory board shall state in its recommendations, with the advice of the applicable soil conservation district, that an approved soil conservation plan is being implemented.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>For the purpose of this chapter, land has “extraordinary agricultural capability” if it:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Has a soil conservation plan approved by a local soil conservation district, fully implemented according to a schedule in the plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is located in an area designated by a county for agricultural preservation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Is recommended by the majority of the Foundation's Board of Trustees after an on-site inspection is conducted by one or more members of the Foundation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Meets either of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Has at least 60 percent of the land area consisting of U.S.D.A. Soil Capability Classes I, II, and III, or U.S.D.A. Woodland Groups 1 and 2 which are applied to wooded areas only; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Has a minimum of 72 percent of the land area less any acreage included within the 100-year floodplain and less any acreage included in State or federal wetlands consisting of a combination of U.S.D.A. Soils, Class I, II, and III on cropland and pasture and Woodland Groups 1 and 2 on wooded areas.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Additions to Existing Districts. The procedures for adding land to existing districts shall be the same as for the initial establishment of districts. There is no minimum size criteria for the addition of land parcels contiguous to an agricultural preservation district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Exclusion of Lots in Districts.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A landowner may request to have excluded from a district certain portions of the owner's property, constituting lots of either 1 acre or less, or, when permitted by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, 2 acres or less, if the purpose for excluding the property is to construct a dwelling house for the owner or the owner's children.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In making this request, the landowner shall follow the procedures described in Regulation .16 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In reviewing the landowner's request, the Foundation shall examine the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Location of the lot to be excluded;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Potential impact the lot's exclusion may have on the agricultural use of the remaining property; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Owner's future right, if not already forfeited under §F(4) of this regulation, to have lots released from the Foundation's easement, should an easement be subsequently acquired by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Lots Released from Foundation's Easement.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Lots excluded under this section from property an owner has placed in a district affects the owner's future right under Agriculture Article, §2-513(b), Annotated Code of Maryland, to have lots released from the Foundation's easement, should the Foundation subsequently acquire an easement in that property.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For each lot excluded from a district under this section, the number of lots a landowner would otherwise be entitled to have released, should the Foundation acquire the easement, will be reduced by one.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>As a precondition to releasing a lot from a district under this section, the owner shall sign a statement agreeing to and acknowledging the forfeiture of the owner's right as described in this subsection, to have lots released from the Foundation's easement, should the Foundation acquire an easement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Continuation of Districts. Agricultural districts shall continue in effect indefinitely unless terminated in accord with any of the procedures provided in Regulation .04 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Access. In determining questions about easements, rights-of-way, licenses, and other similar servitudes in land subject to a district agreement, the Foundation shall follow the same rules that are applicable to the establishment of these servitudes in land subject to a preservation easement set forth under Regulation .17F of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Termination and Alteration of Districts."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The provisions of this regulation are applicable only to land in agricultural preservation districts on which an easement is not held by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After 5 Years. A landowner may terminate his property's inclusion in an agricultural preservation district at any time after 5 years from the establishment of the district. Notice of intention to terminate may be submitted to the Foundation at the end of the fourth year of the district's establishment, or anytime after, with a 1-year notice.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Severe Economic Hardship.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Foundation and County Approval Needed. If severe economic hardship occurs, the Foundation with the concurrence of the county governing body may release the landowner's property from an agricultural preservation district at any time.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Petitioning the Foundation.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>To obtain the relief available under §C(1) of this regulation, the landowner shall petition the Foundation, stating succinctly the severe economic hardship that the landowner is sustaining, and providing the Foundation with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A recent financial statement which shows the owner's complete assets and liabilities and a statement that the information contained in the financial statement is true and accurate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Other information attesting to the severe economic hardship that the landowner is sustaining, including by way of example, information from mortgagees, lien holders, creditors, attorneys, the Internal Revenue Service, or other third-party interests who are qualified to address the economic condition of the landowner.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Copy to County. The landowner shall send a copy of this petition and the information required under §C(2)(a) of this regulation to the appropriate county governing body.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Disclosure of Information. To the extent permitted by law, the Foundation shall deny public access to the information the landowner has supplied the Foundation under §C(2)(a) of this regulation. Nothing in this regulation shall preclude the Foundation from discussing this information with the appropriate county governing body, whose concurrence is required in any property release under this section.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>If the Foundation approves the petition to release the landowner's property from a district, the Foundation shall prepare the release.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Land Within District No Longer Meeting Qualifications. The Foundation may approve alteration or abolishment of the district, if the following occur:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The use of land within the district has so changed as to cause land within the district to fail to meet the qualifications under Regulation .03D of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Foundation has assessed the potential impacts of alteration on remaining lands in the district;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The alteration or abolition of the district has been recommended by the county governing body after review by the agricultural preservation advisory board and county planning and zoning body, and a public hearing has been held; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The alteration or abolition is approved by a majority of the Foundation Board of Trustees at large, by the Secretary, and by the State Treasurer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application to Sell Agricultural Land Preservation Easement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An owner of agricultural land located within an agricultural land preservation district may offer by written application to sell to the Foundation an easement on the entire contiguous acreage of land within that district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The owner shall submit a written application to sell an easement to the Foundation not later than July 1 of the fiscal year in which the application is to be considered and include with the application:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An asking price for which the owner is willing to sell an easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A complete description of the subject land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A certification from the local soil conservation district that it has prepared or revised within the last 10 years a soil conservation and water quality plan that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Identifies the existing erosion and water quality problems on the subject land and the means (that is, the practices and other conservation measures) necessary to address them; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Contains a schedule for implementing the means to address the problems; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An acknowledgement of the following by the landowner:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>That upon the Foundation's acquisition of the easement, the landowner agrees to follow the recommended schedule to implement the best management practices described in a soil conservation and water quality plan applicable to the land; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For land with 25 acres or more of contiguous forest land, the landowner agrees, before the easement is acquired, to provide the Foundation with a certification from a forester licensed in this State, that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A forest stewardship plan has been prepared or revised for the land within the last 10 years; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The landowner agrees to implement the practices stated in the plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Maximum Number of Applications."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board shall determine the maximum number of applications it may consider in each offer cycle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Applications received after the maximum number has been reached may be considered in the next available cycle.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Date on Which the Foundation Shall Receive Applications."> <text>In each offer cycle, the Foundation shall hold all applications to be considered until July 1, when it officially shall receive the applications.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Notice to Landowner of Receipt and Sufficiency of Application to Sell."> <text>Within 30 days after the receipt of an application, the Foundation shall notify the landowner whether the application is sufficient. If the application is insufficient, the Foundation shall specify the reason for insufficiency and grant the owner an additional 30 days to remedy the insufficiency. If the application is made sufficient within 30 days of the notification by the Foundation, the application shall be considered as if it had originally been submitted in a timely and sufficient manner.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Approval or Disapproval of Application by County Governing Body."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Within 30 days after receiving an owner's application to sell an easement, the Foundation shall notify the governing body of the county containing the subject land that it has received an application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 60 days after receiving the notification referenced in §A of this regulation, the county governing body shall advise the Foundation as to local approval or disapproval of the application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Foundation shall grant a county governing body a 30-day extension of this response period if the county governing body applies to the Foundation for an extension and states its reasons.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>In deciding whether to approve the application, the county governing body shall receive the recommendation of the county agricultural preservation advisory board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>In making its recommendation, the county agricultural preservation advisory board shall take into consideration criteria and standards adopted by the Foundation under current local regulations, local patterns of land development, and any locally established priorities for the preservation of agricultural land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The county agricultural preservation advisory board shall provide a public hearing concerning any application to sell an easement if a hearing is requested by a majority of the county agricultural preservation advisory board, or by a majority of the county governing body, or by the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The Board of Trustees of the Foundation may not approve an application to sell which has not been approved by the governing body of the county containing the subject land.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Value of Easement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Maximum Value.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Computation. The maximum value of any easement to be purchased shall be the asking price, or the difference as of the valuation date between the fair market value of the land and the agricultural value of the land, whichever is lower.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Valuation date. The valuation date for each property within an agricultural land preservation district being appraised in a given offer cycle shall be July 1, the last day in each offer cycle that an application may be submitted for consideration.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Fair Market Value.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The fair market value of the land is the price as of the valuation date for the highest and best use of the property which a vendor, willing but not obligated to sell, would accept for the property, and which a purchaser, willing but not obligated to buy, would pay for the property if the property was not subject to any restriction imposed under these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department of General Services shall determine the land's fair market value based on one or more appraisals by the State appraisers, and appraisals, if any, submitted by the landowner. The entire contiguous acreage shall be included in this determination, less 1 acre per single dwelling.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In determining the fair market value of land, improvements to the land may not be considered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If the subject property is less than 100 acres and its fair market value is being determined under the direct sales comparison approach, the adjustments for size between the subject property and the comparison properties shall be calculated as though the subject property is 100 acres.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Agricultural Value. The agricultural value of land shall be determined by the formula provided under COMAR 15.15.02.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Appeal Route. In the establishment of an easement value, the following steps of appeal are available:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the landowner and Foundation do not agree on the value of the easement as determined by the State, either party may request that the matter be submitted to the property tax assessment appeals board where the property is located for arbitration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Either party may appeal the property tax assessment appeal board's determination of the easement value by petitioning the Maryland Tax Court for a de novo hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Either party may appeal from the Tax Court's final order to the circuit court of the county where the property is located.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Effect of Board's Determination in a Purchase of the Easement. Unless the parties agree to a lesser value or an appeal is noted to the Maryland Tax Court, the parties are bound for a period of 2 years by the property tax assessment appeal board's determination of the easement value.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Consideration of Application Following Appeal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If, following an appeal, the round of easement offers has closed for the offer cycle that the landowner originally applied to sell the easement, the Foundation shall consider the landowner's application in the next available offer cycle as provided in §F(2) or (3) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Foundation Would Have Made Offer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If the value of the easement as finally determined on appeal is such that the landowner would have received an offer in the offer cycle that he applied to sell the easement, the Foundation, subject to §F(2)(b) and (c) of this regulation, shall offer the landowner a sum equal to the value determined on appeal or the original asking price, whichever is lower.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Foundation may make an offer only if:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Funds are available;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A majority of the board members at-large approve the offer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The State Treasurer and the Secretary have recommended that the offer be made; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>The value determined on appeal is greater than the State's appraised value of the land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the conditions of this section have been met, the Foundation shall make the offer:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>After paying the current year's appraisal costs for the county where the property is located; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>If possible, before making the first ranked current offer cycle applicant in that county an offer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Foundation Would Not Have Made Offer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If the value of the easement as finally determined on appeal is such that the landowner would not have received an offer in the offer cycle that he had applied to sell the easement, the Foundation, subject to §F(3)(b) and (c) of this regulation, may consider his application to sell along with the new applications.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Foundation may not consider the landowner's application if:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The landowner has not requested in writing that the Foundation do so; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The value determined on appeal is less than or equal to the State's appraised value of the land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The Foundation shall treat the landowner's written request as a formal application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Rejection of Foundation's Offer."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A landowner whose application to sell an agricultural land preservation easement has been rejected for a reason other than insufficient funds may not reapply to sell an easement on the same land or on the same terms until 2 years have passed after the date of the original application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>However, if the landowner's asking price is lower than that indicated in the original application, the landowner may apply to sell an easement on that same land in the next available offer cycle or any cycle after that.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Land Subject to Mineral Rights."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless a property owner either releases or subordinates its mineral or material extraction rights interest to the Foundation's interest under the easement, the Foundation may not acquire an easement on a farm that is subject to mineral rights or a right to extract sand and gravel, shale, limestone, crude petroleum and natural gas, clay, ceramic, and fertilizer minerals and deep-mined minerals, including bituminous coal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Foundation may accept subordination of less than 100% of the mineral rights interest if owners of fractional shares cannot be located or are unwilling to subordinate, and the Foundation determines that the fractional interests are unlikely to be exercised.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In Garrett County or Allegany County only, the Foundation may not require subordination if the Foundation determines that exercise of natural gas rights will not interfere with an agricultural operation on property subject to an easement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Tender of Offer to Buy After Approval of Application."> <text>Upon approval of a majority of the Board members at-large, and upon the recommendation of the State Treasurer and the Secretary, an application to sell shall be approved, and an offer to buy which contains the specific terms of the purchase shall be tendered to the landowner. An offer to buy may specify terms, contingencies, and conditions not contained in the original application.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Time of Tender; Acceptance or Rejection."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>With respect to allotted purchases, the Foundation shall tender any offer to buy containing the specific terms of the purchase for the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>First offer cycle, on or before January 31; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Second offer cycle, on or before July 31.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>With respect to additional offers to buy tendered, the Foundation may not tender these offers earlier than 30 days after the completion of allotted purchases in each offer cycle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A landowner has 30 days from the date of any offer to buy in which to accept or reject the offer.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Schedule of Payment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>At the time of settlement of the purchase of an easement, the landowner and the foundation may agree upon and establish a schedule of payment such that the landowner may receive consideration for the easement in a lump sum, or in installments over a period of up to 10 years from the date of settlement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If a schedule of installments is agreed upon, the Comptroller shall retain in the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund an amount of money sufficient to pay the landowner according to the schedule.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The landowner shall receive annually interest on any unpaid balance remaining after the date of settlement. This interest shall be at the same rate as any interest earned on the funds retained pursuant to §B of this regulation, less 1/4 of 1 percent.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Notice of Rejection of Application; Reapplication."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>On or before June 30, following the first offer cycle, or on or before December 31, following the second offer cycle, the Foundation shall notify every landowner whose application had been rejected during that offer cycle. The Foundation shall specify the reasons for that rejection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A landowner whose application has been rejected for a reason other than insufficient Foundation funds may not reapply to sell an easement on the same land on the same terms until 2 years after the date of the original application.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Use of Land on Which an Easement is Purchased."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Provisions to be Included in Easement and County Regulations. Agricultural land preservation easements may be purchased for land in agricultural use which meets the qualifying criteria established under Regulation .03D of this chapter if the easement and county regulations governing the use of the land include the following provisions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Any agricultural use of land is permitted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Operation of machinery used in farm production or the processing of agricultural products is permitted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Normal agricultural operations performed in accordance with good husbandry practices, which do not cause bodily injury or directly endanger human health, are permitted, including sale of farm products produced on the farm where the sales are made, and may generally include up to 25 percent in gross sales of farm products produced locally on other farms.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Prohibitions. Except as permitted by Agriculture Article, Title 2, Subtitle 5, Annotated Code of Maryland, a landowner who has sold an agricultural preservation easement to the Foundation is prohibited from using that land for any commercial, industrial, or residential purpose.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Dwellings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Application. Before a lot may be released from an easement's restrictions for the construction of a dwelling house, the landowner shall submit an application to the Foundation that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The landowner has signed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Contains a declaration that the lot and dwelling house are only for the use of the landowner or the landowner's child, whichever is the case (if the use is for the landowner's child, identify the child);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Includes signed statements indicating approval of the release from both the local agricultural land preservation advisory board and the county planning and zoning department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Includes a description of the land to be disturbed by both the dwelling and access to that dwelling, so as to gauge the impact that the dwelling and any access to that dwelling will have on the farm; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Includes a survey plat or tax map on which the precise location of the proposed lot is noted.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Corporation's or Similar Entity's Request for Children's Lot. The Foundation may not approve an application from a corporation, partnership, or other similar entity to have a child's lot released from an easement's restrictions unless the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Entity's membership is comprised of family members who are actively engaged in the daily agricultural operations on the land; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Entity is otherwise eligible to have a lot released.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Owner's Lot. A landowner is entitled to have only one owner's lot released from the easement's restrictions regardless of how land is titled (that is, as tenants in common, in joint tenancy, or in a corporation's or partnership's name).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Tenant House. A landowner also may construct housing for tenants fully engaged in the operation of the farm. The procedure for the approval of a tenant house is provided by COMAR 15.15.03.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Public Not to be Granted Right of Access or of Use. Purchase of an easement by the Foundation does not grant the public any right of access or right of use of the subject property.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Permitted Uses.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Foundation may not purchase a preservation easement unless, as provided under Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, the easement instrument and the regulations in the county in which the easement is to be purchased permit the following uses on that land:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any farm use of land is permitted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Operation at any time of any machinery used in farm production or the primary processing of agricultural products is permitted; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>All normal agricultural operations performed in accordance with good husbandry practices which do not cause bodily injury or directly endanger human health are permitted including, but not limited to, sale of farm products produced on the farm where these sales are made.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A landowner may not use land subjected to a preservation easement for any purpose that is otherwise prohibited, inconsistent with, or contrary to State or local law, or the restrictions imposed by the preservation easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In determining whether a particular use is inconsistent with or contrary to the preservation easement, the Foundation shall consider the following factors:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Whether it is a commercial, industrial, or residential use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Whether it will likely have a negative impact on the agricultural operations of the farm on which it is to be implemented;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Whether it has an historical relationship to farming (for example, goose hunting); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Whether it is temporal, seasonal, or permanent in nature.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Repealed." /> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Acceptance of Easements by Donation, Gift, Bequest, or Grant."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Foundation may accept easements or other rights to restrict the use of agricultural land and woodland in accord with the criteria and procedures of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Criteria.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Agricultural land and woodland parcels on which easements are accepted shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Primarily used for the production of food or fiber;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Of such size, configuration, and natural capability to assure continued economically viable agricultural production or be located contiguous to other similarly productive land; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Land within the boundaries of a 10-year water and sewerage service district only if the land is outstanding in productivity and is of significant size.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The acceptance of an easement by donation, gift, bequest, or grant may not be contingent upon inclusion of the land in an agricultural preservation district.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Procedures for Acceptance of Easement Donations. The Foundation shall forward any donation offers to the applicable local governing body for review and comment. The Foundation shall determine easement acceptability in accord with the criteria as provided in §B of this regulation and findings from a field visit to the property. Further acceptance is contingent upon a satisfactory legal review.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Deed Form.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Donated easements may be in perpetuity or for a specified term. Special provisions, unique to the land or to the wishes of the donor, may be incorporated in the easement form for consideration by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Restrictions.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>However, the restrictions in this subsection are generally applicable to the encumbered land in any deed for an easement by donation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Any agricultural use of the land is permitted. However, industrial or commercial use is not permitted with the exception of uses related to the primary processing of agricultural and/or woodland products and the direct sale of locally produced agricultural and woodland products to the public.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Subdivision for residential and commercial purposes is not permitted. However, upon written application to and approval by the Foundation, conveyance of a lot for the owner and for each of his children for the purpose of construction of one dwelling intended for his or their use may be permitted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The property may be subdivided only with the written approval of the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Signs, billboards, or outdoor advertising structure may not be displayed on the property, except that one sign, not exceeding 4 feet by 4 feet, may be displayed to state the name of the property and the name and address of the occupant, to advertise an activity permitted above, and to advertise the property for sale or rental.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>No dump of ashes, sawdust, bark, trash, rubbish, or any other material, except that which is for regular agricultural use, may be permitted on the property.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Agricultural lands shall be managed in accordance with sound agricultural and soil and water conservation practices, in a manner which will not be of significant detriment to agricultural production capability on the land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Woodlands shall be managed in accordance with sound forestry practices, and trees may be selectively or clear cut from time to time in a manner that will not alter the character of the land or diminish its productive capability.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The grantee and its representatives, after appropriate notice to the grantors and any person residing on the property, may enter the property from time to time for the purpose of inspection and enforcement of the terms of the easement granted herein. However, the grantee may not have the right to inspect the interior of any dwelling on the subject property.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>In case of doubt concerning the appropriateness or permissibility of agricultural or related uses of encumbered property, the property owner may submit a written request for consideration and approval of the use to the Board of Trustees of the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".20" heading="Determination by Foundation of Applications To Be Approved."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In determining which applications to approve for the purchase of the easements offered, the Foundation shall approve only those applications which have received approval of the applicable local governing body in which the subject land meets the qualifying criteria of Regulation .03D of this chapter on lands which are currently within an agricultural preservation district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Approval of Easement Sale Applications.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Ratios of 1.0 or Lower. All applications for the sale of easements shall be assigned a rank in ascending order with respect to the proportion obtained by dividing the asking price by the State appraisal easement value. The resulting rank shall be the sole criterion for establishing the priority for approved applications with ratios of 1.0 or lower. If between two or more landowners, the proportions obtained are equal, the following land characteristics shall affect the priority of acquisition:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Highest productive capability;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Greatest urban pressure; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Largest parcel.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Ratios of Greater than 1.0. All applications for the sale of easements shall be assigned a point total resulting from the following easement priority formula. Applications shall be ranked in descending order of respective point totals and this shall be the sole criterion for establishing the priority for the approved applications that include asking price/appraised value ratios greater than 1.0.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Points. The following points shall be assigned to soil capability, based on the land classification system as developed by the U. S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. The following standard priority ranking system applies to ratios greater than 1.0 if the total district acreage is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>50 percent or more Classes I and II — 20 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>50 percent or more Classes II and III — 16 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>50 percent or more Class III — 12 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>50 percent or more Woodland Group 1 — 20 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>50 percent or more Woodland Group 2 — 12 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Less than 50 percent Class I, II, and III soils or Woodland Groups 1 and 2, but 50 percent or more of the productive area of the district is devoted to specialized food production such as orchard, vineyard, poultry, livestock, or other agricultural commodities intended for human consumption which can be produced on poorer soils without the eventual degradation of the productive capability of the land; or agricultural land which is otherwise qualified for district establishment and is comprised predominantly of lower general capability which was subject to Foundation approval based on documented productivity — 12 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Less than 50 percent Class I, II, and III soils or Woodland Groups 1 and 2, but 50 percent or more of the productive area of the district is devoted to non-food production such as nursery, horses, tobacco, or other non-food agricultural commodities which could be produced on poorer soils without the eventual degradation of the productive capability of the land — 8 points.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Points. The following points shall be assigned based upon agricultural preservation area and district size (maximum 25 points):</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Preservation area. Agency Note: An agricultural preservation area is the amount of contiguous land under district agreement which may include separate ownership and land which is permanently preserved for agriculture through a county, State, federal, or private organization.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>1,000 acres or larger — 10 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>500—999 acres — 8 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>100—499 acres — 5 points;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>District:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>175 acres or larger — 10 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>100—174 acres — 8 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>50—99 acres — 2 points;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the District adjoins a district on which a development rights easement has been acquired or the adjacent land has been permanently preserved for agriculture through county, State, federal, or private organization — 5 points.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Points. Points shall be assigned based upon the threat to the continuance of agriculture. The following points apply to the percentage of existing or formally proposed nonagricultural land use acreage within a 1.5 mile radius of the district (maximum 30 points):</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>41—50 percent developed and district is contiguous to the undeveloped portion — 10 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>31—40 percent developed and district is contiguous to the undeveloped portion — 8 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>21—30 percent developed and district is contiguous to the undeveloped portion — 6 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>10—20 percent developed and district is contiguous to the undeveloped portion — 4 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The following points apply to the proximity to the county's existing sewer service or sewer service planned within the next 10 years:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Less than 1 mile — 15 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>1—2 miles — 12 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>2.1—4 miles — 9 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>4.1—6 miles — 6 points;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The following points apply to the proximity to community or suburban development areas outside the county's existing or ten year sewer service boundary: Agency Note: A community or suburban development area is an area of existing and formally proposed residential development greater than 500 contiguous acres.</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Less than 0.5 miles — 5 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>0.6—1.0 miles — 4 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>1.1—2.0 miles — 3 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>2.1—3.0 miles — 2 points.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Points. The following points apply to the priority recommendations of local governing bodies for applications based on a formal objective evaluation process approved by the Foundation (maximum 25 points):</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Applications designated high priority — 25 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Applications designated medium priority — 10 points;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Applications designated low priority — 5 points.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Foundation shall only approve those applications that have been approved by the applicable local government.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".21" heading="Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund and Local Funds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Definitions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Total amount to be allotted” means the amount, as certified by the Comptroller, which remains in the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund at the beginning of the fiscal year after payment of all expenses of the Foundation and the Board of Trustees during the previous fiscal year, and after subtraction of funds committed for payment as consideration for easements purchased during previous fiscal years, and after subtraction of any money remaining in the Fund as a result of a transfer of local program open space funds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“General purchases of easements” means purchases of agricultural land preservation easements in which the governing body of the county in which the land is located is not required to make a contribution to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Matching purchases of easements” means purchases of agricultural land preservation easements in which the governing body of the county in which the land is located is required to make a contribution to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund of an amount equal to at least 40 percent of the value of the easement for each purchase.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Allotted purchases” means general or matching purchases made pursuant to offers to buy tendered by the Foundation on or before January 31 in the first offer cycle and on or before July 31 in the second offer cycle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“County” means any county containing productive agricultural land which is being actively farmed and which meets the criteria for land on which easements may be purchased.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Eligible county” means a county as defined in §A(5) of this regulation which has secured approval from the Foundation for a local agricultural land preservation program (applicable only to local matching programs).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Sources. The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund shall comprise money made available to the fund by general or special fund appropriations, and money made available to the fund by grants or transfers from governmental or private sources.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Disbursements. The Comptroller of the Treasury may not disburse any money from the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund other than for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Costs associated with the staffing and administration of the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Reasonable expenses incurred by the members of the Board of Trustees of the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation in the performance of official duties; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Consideration in the purchase of agricultural land preservation easements beginning with fiscal year 1979 and each fiscal year thereafter. Money may be disbursed from the Fund only upon formal notification to the Comptroller of the Treasury from the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Fund Regulation, Distribution, and Procedures.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Audit. The Fund shall be audited annually by the Legislative Auditor in the manner prescribed by law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maximum Amount To Be Expended for Allotted Purchases.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Beginning with fiscal year 1979, and in each fiscal year after, the Foundation shall determine the maximum amount which may be expended for allotted purchases of easements on land located within each county.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The maximum amount which may be expended for allotted purchases of easements in any county in any fiscal year shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>For general allotted purchases, an amount, which shall be divided equally between the two cycles, equal to 1/23 of 1/2 of the total amount to be allotted after first deducting the amount of local shares of agricultural transfer tax, which was unexpended and uncommitted for 3 years and is being held by the Department in a special account, plus any amount of transferred local open space fund designated by the local governing body for general purchases.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>For matching allotted purchases, an amount, which shall be divided equally between the two cycles, which shall be computed for each eligible county by dividing 1/2 of the total amount to be allotted equally among those counties having an approved local matching program. The maximum amount available from the Foundation for the Foundation's share in matching allotted purchases may not exceed $1 million in any county in any fiscal year.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Matching allotted purchases may not be approved for land located in any county which has not secured approval from the Foundation for a local matching program of agricultural land preservation in accord with Regulation .22 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Money Remaining at End of Fiscal Year. Money remaining in the Fund at the end of a fiscal year may not revert to the general funds of the State, but shall remain in the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund to be used for the purposes specified in this subtitle. It is the intent that, to the extent feasible, the Foundation use the full amount of money available for the purchase of easements in any fiscal year so as to minimize the amount of money remaining in the Fund at the end of any fiscal year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Additional Offers to Buy.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If during the first offer cycle, the Foundation receives acceptances of offers to buy in insufficient numbers to expend the first offer cycle allotment (that being 50 percent of the total amount to be allotted for allotted purchases), the Foundation, to the extent feasible, shall tender, after completion of the first round of the first offer cycle, additional offers to buy in sufficient numbers to expend the first offer cycle allotment. If during the second offer cycle, the Foundation receives acceptances of offers to buy in insufficient numbers to expend the remainder of the total amount to be allotted for allotted purchases, the Foundation, to the extent feasible, shall tender, after completion of the first round of the second cycle, additional offers to buy in sufficient numbers to expend the total amount to be allotted and any funds remaining from the first offer cycle allotment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Additional offers to buy shall be tendered:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>To landowners who have applied to sell easements on land which was otherwise acceptable, but who had not received an offer to buy solely because of limitations on the amount of money to be spent for allotted purchases.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>To applicants on a Statewide basis in ascending order with respect to the proportion obtained by dividing the landowner's asking price by the State appraisal easement value for ratios of 1.0 or lower, and in descending order by point totals for ratios of greater than 1.0 as determined by Regulation .20B of this chapter. If proportions obtained are equal, the following land characteristics shall affect priority of acquisitions: highest productive capability, greatest urban pressure, and largest parcel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Only after the expiration of the period allowed for acceptance of offers to buy under allotted general and matching purchases.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Local Funds.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Transfer of Local Subdivision's Program Open-Space Funds. If authorized by law, a portion of a local subdivision's allocation of program open space funds is transferred to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund pursuant to the provisions of Natural Resources Article, §5-903, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Foundation may use these transferred funds only for purchases of easements on land located within the boundaries of the subdivision which requested the transfer of funds. These transferred open-space funds shall be available in addition to any funds which would otherwise be allotted under this subtitle for purchases of easements in the county which requested the transfer of funds, and, at the discretion of the local governing body, the transferred open-space funds may be used for general purchases or applied as the local contribution in matching purchases.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Other Local Funds. Other local funds may be transferred to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".22" heading="Local Matching Programs of Agricultural Land Preservation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Foundation may approve a local matching program of agricultural land preservation, provided that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The county agrees to make payments up to a specified and Foundation-approved aggregate amount to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund to equal at least 40 percent of the value of an easement acquired by the Foundation as a result of a matching allotted purchase made during the ensuing fiscal year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The county shows evidence that the local matching program for the acquisition of easements for the purposes of agricultural land preservation will not result in preservation of land which does not meet the qualifying criteria as established in these regulations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The county request for approval of a local matching program is submitted to the Foundation, together with any necessary agreements, not later than 90 days before the beginning of the fiscal year for which approval is being sought.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Approval of a local matching program by the Foundation is valid only during the fiscal year following the fiscal year of the request for approval by the county.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Local matching programs shall be approved upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board members at-large, and upon approval of the Secretary and the State Treasurer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Local matching programs submitted to the Foundation for consideration shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An inventory of productive agricultural land in the county based upon the qualifying criteria of these regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>County agricultural land preservation goals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Analysis of alternative local means of preserving productive agricultural land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Analysis of the relationship between the county comprehensive plan and agricultural land preservation goals and program; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Selected approaches to preserving productive agricultural land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Matching allotted funds shall be available exclusively for the acquisition of easements. The Foundation may not approve matching allotted purchases of easements for land located in any county which has not secured approval from the Foundation for a local matching program of agricultural land preservation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504, 2-509, and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 12, 1979 (6:1 Md. R. 19)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1662)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03C amended effective June 4, 1984 (11:11 Md. R. 963); August 27, 1984 (11:17 Md. R. 1493); March 25, 1985 (12:6 Md. R. 597)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1662)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended effective June 4, 1984 (11:11 Md. R. 963)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended as an emergency provision effective June 6, 1984 (11:13 Md. R. 1174); emergency status expired July 16, 1984</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended as an emergency provision effective August 6, 1984 (11:17 Md. R. 1489); adopted permanently effective November 19, 1984 (11:23 Md. R. 1994)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04G amended effective June 4, 1984 (11:11 Md. R. 963); March 25, 1985 (12:6 Md. R. 597)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04-1 adopted effective March 25, 1985 (12:6 Md. R. 597)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04-1A amended effective August 12, 1985 (12:16 Md. R. 1608)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04-1B amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1662)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05D amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1662)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1662)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective July 11, 1988 (15:14 Md. R. 1656)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Existing Preface, Program Summary, and Regulation .01 amended and recodified to new Regulations .01, .01-1, and .01-2, respectively, effective April 15, 1991 (18:7 Md. R. 773)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective April 15, 1991 (18:7 Md. R. 773)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03D amended as an emergency provision effective July 1, 1992 (19:15 Md. R. 1386); emergency status extended at 19:23 Md. R. 2038; amended permanently effective December 21, 1992 (19:25 Md. R. 2207)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03H adopted effective April 15, 1991 (18:7 Md. R. 773)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04B amended effective April 15, 1991 (18:7 Md. R. 773)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04C amended effective November 11, 1991 (18:22 Md. R. 2397)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective March 19, 1990 (17:5 Md. R. 638)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended as an emergency provision effective July 1, 1992 (19:15 Md. R. 1386); emergency status extended at 19:23 Md. R. 2038; amended permanently effective December 21, 1992 (19:25 Md. R. 2207)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05G amended effective April 15, 1991 (18:7 Md. R. 773); November 11, 1991 (18:22 Md. R. 2397)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05N amended effective April 15, 1991 (18:7 Md. R. 773); November 11, 1991 (18:22 Md. R. 2397)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05N amended as an emergency provision effective July 1, 1992 (19:15 Md. R. 1386); emergency status extended at 19:23 Md. R. 2038; adopted permanently effective December 21, 1992 (19:25 Md. R. 2207)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07A, D amended effective March 19, 1990 (17:5 Md. R. 638)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective November 4, 1996 (23:22 Md. R. 1498)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01-2 amended effective August 6, 2001 (28:15 Md. R. 1399)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01-2B amended effective September 19, 2011 (38:19 Md. R. 1148)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03C amended effective January 19, 2004 (31:1 Md. R. 31)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03D amended effective September 8, 1997 (24:18 Md. R. 1296)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective July 3, 2006 (33:13 Md. R. 1065)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 repealed and new Regulation .12 adopted effective May 17, 2010 (37:10 Md. R. 723)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17D amended as an emergency provision effective October 11, 2002 (29:23 Md. R. 1808); amended permanently effective February 3, 2003 (30:2 Md. R. 76)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17F repealed effective June 4, 2018 (45:11 Md. R. 579)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17H—J adopted effective October 30, 2000 (27:21 Md. R. 1977)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17H—J repealed and new H—K adopted effective August 6, 2001 (28:15 Md. R. 1399)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17H—K repealed effective September 19, 2011 (38:19 Md. R. 1148)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 repealed effective April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 675)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Formula for Determining the Agricultural Value of Land"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations provide the formula for determining the agricultural value of land under the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural land preservation easement” or “easement” means a negative servitude in land which restricts a landowner's right to use the land for any commercial, industrial, or residential purpose except as otherwise permitted under Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agricultural value” means the value of the land determined by a formula adopted by the Department that measures the farm productivity of the land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Cultivatable land” means the portion of the applicant's land that consists of the following soil groups as classified under the USDA Soil Conservation Service's Soil Capability System: Class I, II, III, IV, V, and VI soils.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Fair market value” means the value of land as of the valuation date for the highest and best use of the land which a vendor, willing but not obligated to sell, would accept for the property, and which a purchaser, willing but not obligated to buy, would pay for the property if the property was not subject to any easement restriction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Purchase of Easement."> <text>If land has development potential for commercial, industrial, or residential use, the Department may purchase, subject to requirements of COMAR 15. 15.01, an agricultural land preservation easement from a landowner. The maximum value that the Department may pay for an easement is the asking price or the difference between the fair market value of the land and the agricultural value of the land, whichever is lower. The Foundation may not purchase an easement from a landowner whose land is already restricted to agricultural use.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Fair Market Value."> <text>The fair market value of the land on which the landowner has applied to sell an easement shall be determined by the Department of General Services based upon one or more appraisals by State appraisers and any appraisals, if any, of the landowner.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Explanation of Formula for Determining Agricultural Value."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Formula's Underlying Premise. The agricultural value of the land on which the landowner has applied to sell an easement shall be determined by the formula provided under Regulation .06. This formula, which measures the farm productivity of the applicant's land, provides a method for ascertaining the capitalized value of the sum necessary to rent the applicant's farm. (The formula's premise is that the capitalized value of cash rents paid for land is a reliable indicator of the land's agricultural value.) The formula numerically explains how certain factors such as a farm's location and its soil types affect rent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Factors Affecting Rent.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Soil Types. A survey of Maryland farmers who rented land revealed a strong relationship between rent and soil types, that is, the greater a land's natural productivity, the greater the rent paid for that land (and per the formula's premise, the greater the agricultural value of the land). As explained in Regulation .07, a land's natural productivity is measured in terms of a soil productivity index. This index is based on the natural characteristics of each soil class and how these characteristics relate to crop production.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Location. A survey of Maryland farmers also revealed a relationship between rent and a farm's location, that is, the greater a farm's average distance from Baltimore and Washington, up to 100 miles, the greater the rent paid for that land (and per the formula's premise, the greater the agricultural value of the land). Beyond 100 miles, the relationship between rent and a farm's location was not significant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Quantifying How Soil Types and Location Affect Rent. From the results of this survey, a mathematical equation was developed which effectively estimates how a farm's soil types and location would affect its rent. Being able to effectively estimate how these factors would affect a farm's rent (and consequently, per the formula's premise, how they would affect a farm's agricultural value), this equation forms a major step in the Department's formula for determining agricultural value. The mathematical equation is as follows: Rent = -53 + (160 X productivity index) + (0.11 X average distance from Baltimore and Washington, up to 100 miles). The equation, however, is only effective for estimating rental values greater than $25 per acre. For this reason, under the Department's formula for determining agricultural value, $25 per acre constitutes the minimum per acre rental value for a parcel of land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Explanation of Mathematical Equation.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Relationship Between Rent and Soil Types. The chart indicated in Regulation .08 is useful to understand the relationship between rent and soil types. A visual inspection reveals that rents tend to be greater for higher soil productivity indexes. Mathematical methods are used to generalize this relationship into a statistically “best fit” formula shown by the formula line on the graph. The -53 in the equation represents the point where the formula line crosses the rent axis on the graph. It has no practical meaning except to fit the formula line to the data. The 160 in the equation represents the formula line's slope. It means that for each increase of 0.10 in the soil productivity index of a parcel of land, rental values increase $16.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Relationship Between Rent and Location. The relationship between rent and location of this equation can be similarly explained. The 0.11 in the equation means that for every mile increase in average distance that the applicant's land is from Baltimore and Washington, up to 100 miles, rental rates increase by 11 cents.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Range of Equation's Effectiveness. The $25 minimum rent value line indicates that the equation is only effective for estimating rents within the range of the data. In those few cases when, under the equation, a land's rental value is estimated to be less than $25 per acre, use $25 per acre to complete the formula for determining the land's agricultural value.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Formula for Determining Agricultural Value."> <text>To determine the agricultural value of the land on which the landowner has applied to sell an easement, complete the following five steps:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Step 1. Using the following method, determine the soil productivity index of the parcel of land on which the applicant has applied to sell an easement. First, note how many acres of cultivatable land (Class I through VI soils) are contained in this parcel. Second, determine how many of these acres consist of Class I soils. Third, using the table found in Regulation .07 of this chapter, multiply the number of acres of Class I soils by the soil productivity index for Class I soils. Having completed the calculation process for Class I soils, follow the same process for Class II through Class VI soils. Next, add each of these calculations together. Finally, divide this sum by the total number of acres of cultivatable land contained in the entire parcel. This figure equals the soil productivity index of the applicant's parcel. (For example, if the applicant's parcel consists of 60 acres of Class II soils and 40 acres of Class III soils, the following calculations must be made: 60 acres X 0.72 = 43.20; 40 acres X 0.50 = 20; 43.20 + 20 = 63.20; 63.20 divided by 100 acres = 0.632. The soil productivity index of the applicant's parcel in this example equals 0.632.) Use this calculation to complete Step 3.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Step 2. Determine the average distance the applicant's land is from Baltimore and Washington. First, note the distance this land is from Baltimore. Second, note the land's distance from Washington, D.C. To obtain the land's average distance from Baltimore and Washington, add these two distances together and divide by 2. (For example, if the applicant's land is 50 miles from Washington and 20 miles from Baltimore, its average distance from these areas is 35 miles. (50 + 20) divided by 2 = 35.) Use this calculation to complete Step 3.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Step 3. Using the mathematical equation discussed in Regulation .05 of this chapter, determine the per acre rental value of the applicant's land. That equation is as follows: Rent = -53 + (160 X productivity index) + (0.11 x average distance from Baltimore and Washington, up to 100 miles). Insert the figures derived from completing Steps 1 and 2 to complete the equation. The productivity index number is the figure derived from completing Step 1. The average distance is the figure derived from completing Step 2. If the average distance is 100 miles or more, insert 100 into the equation. (Using the figures from the examples noted in Steps 1 and 2, the equation is completed as follows: Rent = -53 + (160 X 0.632) + (0.11 X 35) or, to answer the equation, $51.97 per acre.) Use this calculation or the most recent 5-year average cash rent of the county where the property is located, whichever is lower, to complete Step 4. If the rental value calculated in Step 3 or if the running 5-year average cash rent of the county is less than $25 per acre, use $25 per acre to complete Step 4.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Step 4. To determine the per acre agricultural value of the applicant's land, divide the figure derived from completing Step 3 (the per acre rental value of the applicant's land) by a capitalization rate of 6 percent (the Department has estimated 6 percent to be the capitalization rate). (Using the figure from the example noted in Step 3, or $51.97 per acre, the per acre agricultural value is $742.43 ($51.97 divided by 0.06).) Use this figure to complete the final step.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Step 5. To determine the agricultural value of the applicant's land, multiply the figure derived from completing Step 4 (the per acre value) by the total number of acres of cultivatable land comprising the applicant's land.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Soil Productivity Index*."> <text>Soil Class Soil Productivity Index Class I 1.00 Class II .72 Class III .50 Class IV .50 Class V .18 VI .18</text> <text>*The figures in this table numerically express the soil productivity for each class of soil. Compiled by the Maryland Agricultural Statistics Services, USDA, and the Agricultural Resource Economics Department, University of Maryland, they are based on the capability each class has of producing crops under average management. Class I soils have a high productivity rating. Class II soils have a medium productivity rating which is 28 percent less than Class I. Class III and IV soils have a low productivity rating which is 50 percent less than Class I. Class V and VI soils have the lowest rating which is 82 percent less than Class I.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Relationship Between Rent and Soil Productivity Index." /> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-511, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.08 adopted as an emergency provision effective March 4, 1991 (18:6 Md. R. 681); emergency status extended at 18:16 Md. R. 1810 (August</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">9, 1991)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.08 adopted effective October 28, 1991 (18:21 Md. R. 2310)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06C amended effective September 8, 1997 (24:18 Md. R. 1297)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Tenant House or Replacement Dwelling House Approval for a Farm Subject to an Agricultural Land Preservation Easement"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes the criteria and eligibility for the approval of a tenant house or replacement dwelling house, or both, on a farm subject to an agricultural land preservation easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Existing dwelling” means a building, structure, or mobile home that was designated by the Foundation and a county as an existing dwelling at the time of the execution of an agricultural land preservation district agreement or agricultural land preservation easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Fully engaged in the operation of a farm” means the tenant is committed to an average of at least 30 hours per week over a continuous 12-month period.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Replacement dwelling house” means a residential structure that may be built in lieu of a new tenant house if the Foundation has approved the conversion of an existing dwelling house into a tenant house.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Tenant.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Tenant” means an individual fully engaged in the operation of a farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Tenant” does not include a landowner or a person who has a financial interest in the landowner, including a shareholder interest, partnership interest, or membership interest, full, limited, or otherwise.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Tenant house” means an accessory structure in service to a farm operation, approved or designated by the Foundation to be restricted to residential use by a tenant or tenants on the property.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Tenant House Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The approval for the construction of a tenant house by the Foundation is not an absolute right of a landowner, and requests shall be reviewed by the Foundation on a case-by-case basis. Each request shall be reviewed to determine if a proposed tenant house is necessary based on the nature of the farming operation. When applying for approval of a tenant house, a landowner shall demonstrate to the Foundation a current and compelling need. To do so, a landowner shall show:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The nature of the farm operation and the reasons why one or more tenant is necessary to carry out farm operations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That one or more tenants will be fully engaged in the operations of the farm.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Farm Size.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A request for a tenant house may not be considered by the Foundation for any farm of less than 100 acres, unless the Foundation grants an exception based on a showing of compelling need.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Not more than one tenant house per full 100 acres may be considered by the Foundation for a farm, for example, one house for 100—199.99 acres, two houses for 200—299.99 acres, etc.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A tenant house may be approved for and occupied only by tenants of whom one or more is fully engaged in the operation of the farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Foundation shall approve the location and size of a tenant house as an accessory structure. Unless the Foundation approves otherwise, a tenant house:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Shall be located in the vicinity of other farm buildings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>May not be located on a farm field;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>May not be larger in size than at least one nontenant dwelling house on the property, if any exist; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>May not be more than 2,000 square feet in size, calculated by first multiplying the exterior footprint of the portions of the structure with multiple stories by the number of stories with windows, and then adding the exterior footprint of any portions of the structure with one story, but excluding basements, attics, and porches not used as living space, garages, or unenclosed decks.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A tenant house, including its size and location, may not be approved by the Foundation unless it conforms to local planning and zoning regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A tenant house and the land where it is constructed may not be subdivided and separately conveyed from the farm subject to the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The Foundation may not approve the construction of a tenant house solely for the purpose of producing rental income.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Tenant House Application Procedure."> <text>Before the Foundation may consider a request for a tenant house, a landowner shall submit the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An application, completed and signed by each titled landowner, which addresses the criteria in Regulation .03;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An unmarked copy of the tax map, or boundary survey, which outlines the entire Foundation district or easement property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A second copy of the tax map, which shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Property boundaries of the Foundation district or easement property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Location of, and access to, the proposed tenant house; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Location of, and access to, all preexisting dwellings, lot exclusions, tenant houses, and farm buildings;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A written statement from the landowner indicating:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The tenant will be compensated for the tenant's work;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The duties and responsibilities of the tenant relative to the farming operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The time commitment that the tenant will have to the farming operation stated as average hours per week and total hours over a continuous 12-month period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Written verification from the county program administrator describing:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The current overall farm operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The need for the proposed tenant housing to support the current operation;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A letter of recommendation from the local agricultural land preservation advisory board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A written statement from the local planning and zoning office or the county program administrator indicating that the proposed tenant house may be constructed under current local regulations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>A written statement or plan from the landowner stating the size of the proposed tenant house as calculated by first multiplying the exterior footprint of the portions of the structure with multiple stories by the number of stories with windows, and then adding the exterior footprint of any portions of the structure with one story, but excluding basements, attics, and porches not used as living space, garages, or unenclosed decks.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Replacement Dwelling House Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The approval for the construction of a replacement dwelling house by the Foundation is not an absolute right of a landowner. The Foundation shall only approve a request for a replacement dwelling house if the Foundation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has approved the application for a tenant house; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has approved an existing dwelling house as a tenant house.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A replacement dwelling house may be approved and used only for the current or future landowner’s personal residential use.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Foundation shall approve the location and size of a replacement dwelling house as a residential structure. Unless the Foundation approves otherwise, a replacement dwelling house:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Shall be located in the vicinity of other farm buildings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>May not be located on a farm field;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>May not be smaller in size than the existing dwelling approved to be redesignated as a tenant house; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>May not be more than 3,500 square feet in size, calculated by first multiplying the exterior footprint of the portions of the structure with multiple stories by the number of stories with windows, and then adding the exterior footprint of any portions of the structure with one story, but excluding basements, attics, and porches not used as living space, garages, or unenclosed decks.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A replacement dwelling house, including its size and location, may not be approved by the Foundation unless it conforms to local planning and zoning regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The property owner must execute an agreement with the Foundation to prohibit a replacement dwelling house and the land where it is constructed from being separately conveyed from the farm subject to the easement. The agreement will also specify that the replacement dwelling house will be for the personal residential use of the current or future landowners. The agreement shall be recorded among the county land records and shall bind future owners of the property.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>In counties that require subdivision of nontenant dwelling houses, the subdivision plat will state that the parcel is not to be separately conveyed from the property.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>If the Foundation approves a replacement dwelling house that is smaller than 3,500 square feet, any proposed additions are subject to the Foundation’s prior review and approval.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>This section does not apply to applications to replace an existing dwelling house damaged or destroyed by fire, water, or natural causes.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Replacement Dwelling House Application Procedure."> <text>Before the Foundation may consider a request for the construction of a replacement dwelling house, a landowner must first obtain approval from the Foundation for a new tenant house. A landowner must submit the following information:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An application for conversion of an existing dwelling to a tenant house and for construction of a replacement dwelling house, completed and signed by each titled landowner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An unmarked copy of the tax map, or boundary survey, which outlines the entire Foundation district or easement property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A second copy of the tax map, which shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Property boundaries of the Foundation district or easement property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Location of, and access to, the proposed replacement dwelling house;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Location of, and access to, the existing dwelling which will house the tenant or tenants which made it necessary to construct a replacement dwelling house; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Location of, and access to, all preexisting dwellings, lot exclusions, tenant houses, and farm buildings;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A letter of recommendation from the local agricultural land preservation advisory board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A written statement from the local planning and zoning office or the county program administrator indicating that the proposed replacement dwelling house may be constructed under current local regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A signed statement from the landowner acknowledging that the replacement dwelling may only be approved and used for the current or future landowner’s personal residential use; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A written statement or plan from the landowner stating the size of the proposed replacement dwelling house as calculated by first multiplying the exterior footprint of the portions of the structure with multiple stories by the number of stories with windows, and then adding the exterior footprint of any portions of the structure with one story, but excluding basements, attics, and porches not used as living space, garages, or unenclosed decks.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504 and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.04 adopted as an emergency provision effective October 11, 2002 (29:23 Md. R. 1808); adopted permanently effective February 3, 2003 (30:2 Md. R. 76)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective July 17, 2008 (35:14 Md. R. 1247)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A, B amended effective July 17, 2008 (35:14 Md. R. 1247)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.04 repealed and new Regulations .01—.06 adopted effective March 7, 2011 (38:5 Md. R. 319)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Relocation of the Site of an Existing Dwelling on a Farm Subject to an Agricultural Land Preservation Easement"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes the criteria and eligibility for the approval of the relocation of the site of an existing dwelling on a farm subject to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Existing dwelling” means a building, structure, trailer, or mobile home that was designated by the landowner and recognized by the Foundation and the county as an existing dwelling at the time of the establishment of an agricultural land preservation district or sale of the Agricultural Preservation Easement, whether or not the dwelling was occupied at the time of the sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Farm” means any land subject to an agricultural land preservation easement or district agreement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Foundation” means the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Restoration to Agricultural Use.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Restoration to agricultural use” means to alter the land to open space so that it may produce a crop or be used for livestock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Restoration to agricultural use” does not include altering an existing dwelling to another use as an accessory farm building.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Requests for Approval.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The approval to relocate the 1-acre site of any dwelling by the Foundation is not an absolute right of a landowner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Requests shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and approved if consistent with the guidelines established by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Each request shall be reviewed to determine if:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The proposed new site for any new dwelling will adversely affect farming operations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The site where the dwelling exists at the time of the request may be restored to agricultural use.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Dwelling Relocation Criteria.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A request to relocate the site of an existing dwelling on a farm may not be approved by the Foundation if it increases the residential development or the number of dwellings on the farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The proposed new site for a new dwelling:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is subject to the Foundation's approval; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>May not be located in an area that interferes with any agricultural use.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Foundation's approval for a new site for an existing dwelling shall be conditioned upon the removal of the existing dwelling, and restoration of the existing dwelling site to agricultural use, within 60 days after the use and occupancy permit is issued for the new dwelling, or sooner, if required under county law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A request to relocate the 1-acre site of any proposed new dwelling may not be approved unless the landowner can demonstrate to the Foundation that the existing dwelling site can be restored to agricultural use.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A landowner's request to relocate the site of an existing dwelling may not be approved if its purpose is solely for aesthetic reasons.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Procedure."> <text>Before the Foundation may consider and approve a landowner's request to relocate the site of an existing dwelling, all of the following shall be filed with the Foundation:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A written application for the relocation of a dwelling which has been completed and signed by all titled landowners, which shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A map that clearly indicates:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The property boundaries of the easement property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The location of, and proposed access to, the new site of the proposed dwelling;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The location of and access to the existing dwelling; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The location of Class I, II, and III soils;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Photographs of the property showing views of the property from the nearest roads;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A description of the farm operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A written statement from the landowner that the existing dwelling shall be removed at the landowner's expense and the existing dwelling site restored to agricultural use within 60 days after a use and occupancy permit is issued for the new dwelling, subject to the Foundation's inspection; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A detailed description showing how the landowner proposes to restore the site of the existing dwelling to agricultural use;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A written review from the county program administrator of the applicant's proposal, based upon the “Dwelling Relocation Criteria”, in accordance with Regulation .03B of this chapter, and any other information that may assist the Foundation in making its decision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A letter from the local soil conservation district on the feasibility of the landowner's plan to restore the 1-acre site to agricultural use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A letter of recommendation from the local agricultural land preservation advisory board; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A written statement from the local planning and zoning office or the county program administrator stating that the landowner's proposal to tear down a dwelling in exchange for a new dwelling on the 1-acre construction site is allowed under local regulations.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Agreement."> <text>If the Foundation approves a landowner's request to relocate a dwelling, the landowner shall enter into a written agreement with the Foundation, to be recorded among the county land records, describing the terms and conditions of the Foundation's approval for the site for the relocation of the dwelling.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504 and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.05 adopted as an emergency provision effective July 20, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1517); adopted permanently effective November 7, 2005 (32:22 Md. R. 1758)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Easement Termination Requests"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter provides the process for an eligible landowner to request that the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation terminate an agricultural land preservation easement. Each easement granted to the Foundation is of perpetual duration and may be terminated only under extraordinary circumstances. The easement’s broad purpose is to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide a present and future source of agricultural products within the State for the citizens of the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Control urban expansion, which is consuming the agricultural land and woodland of the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Curb the spread of urban blight and deterioration; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Protect agricultural land and woodland as open-space land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An easement may be reviewed for possible termination 25 years after the purchase of the easement, but only if the Board of Public Works approved the easement for purchase before October 1, 2004, unless the right to apply to terminate the easement has been waived in the deed of easement or in a subsequent written instrument.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>As Agriculture Article, §2-514, Annotated Code of Maryland, provides, a termination must be approved by the Foundation and by the county governing body where the land is located. Similar to when an easement is purchased, the Foundation and the county have separate duties and responsibilities when reviewing an easement for possible termination. In the case of easement termination, the county’s responsibility is to consider factors relating to local land use policies, while the Foundation’s separate responsibility is to determine whether future profitable farming is feasible on the land under easement. The Foundation may only approve the termination if it finds that future profitable farming is not feasible. If either the county or the Foundation deny any termination request, an easement may not be terminated.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural product” includes, but is not limited to, livestock and crops.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“County governing body” means the board of county commissioners or, in a charter county, the county executive and the county council of a county.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Easement” means an agricultural land preservation easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation, solely or jointly with any other entity or local government, and approved for purchase by the Board of Public Works prior to October 1, 2004.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Foundation” means the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Landowner” means the fee simple owner of the land that is subject to easement restrictions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Profitable farming is feasible on the land” means that an agricultural product can be produced on the land that can be sold to realize an excess of return over expenditures, excluding any expenditures or costs to construct farm structures, to acquire the land itself, or to service any debt or financing incurred to acquire the land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Landowner’s Request for Easement Termination."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Request. A landowner, whose farm is subject to an easement, may submit a written request to the Foundation to review the easement for possible termination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Form. A landowner’s written request shall be submitted on a form provided by the Foundation that explains, as defined by this chapter, why profitable farming is not feasible on the land under the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Restriction. A landowner’s request for termination review may not be considered by the Foundation unless 25 years have passed from the date that the Foundation purchased the easement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="County Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notice to County of Landowner’s Request. Upon receipt of a landowner’s request for review to terminate an easement on the form provided by the Foundation, the Foundation shall notify the governing body of the county where the land is located of the landowner’s request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>County Agricultural Advisory Board Recommendation. Upon receipt from the Foundation of a landowner’s request for review to terminate an easement, the county governing body shall notify and ask for the recommendation of the county agricultural preservation advisory board, established under Agriculture Article, §2-504.1, Annotated Code of Maryland, or any other appropriate county agency or board. The advisory board or other county agency shall recommend to the county governing body the approval or disapproval of the termination of the easement based on current land use regulations, local comprehensive planning, and any local priorities for the preservation of agricultural land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>County Public Hearing. Upon receipt of the recommendation of the county agricultural preservation advisory board and, as determined by the county, any other appropriate county agency or board, the county governing body shall conduct a public hearing, after adequate public notice, to consider approving or disapproving the termination of the easement based on the following criteria:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The county agricultural preservation advisory board’s recommendation regarding the termination request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Local comprehensive planning and zoning considerations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Local priorities to preserve agricultural land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Local patterns of development; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Other land use considerations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>County Decision. After conducting the public hearing required in §C of this regulation, the county governing body shall prepare a written decision on the landowner’s termination request, which decision shall either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Deny the termination request and end the termination review process; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Approve the termination request for additional review by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Foundation Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Foundation shall review a landowner’s termination request only if the county governing body approves a landowner’s termination request in writing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Foundation’s review of a landowner’s termination request requires the Foundation Board of Trustees members at large to determine, in writing, whether profitable farming is feasible on the land, which determination may be based on the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An expert opinion as to whether profitable farming on the land is feasible;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The effect of any nonagricultural development adjacent to the land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Whether markets exist for any agricultural products that can be produced on the land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The profitability of nearby farms, if such information is readily available to the Board of Trustees members at large;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any information the landowner asks the Board of Trustees members at large to consider; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Any additional information the Board of Trustees members at large deem relevant to determine if it is feasible to farm the land in a profitable manner.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>To assist with the determination of whether profitable farming is feasible on the land, the landowner may request the Foundation Board of Trustees members at large to conduct a hearing, which request shall be submitted in writing to the Foundation within 30 days after the date of the county governing body’s written decision approving the landowner’s termination request. If the landowner fails to request a hearing within the required time period, no hearing shall be required.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Standard of Review for Foundation Consideration of Termination Request.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To determine whether profitable farming is feasible on the land, the Foundation Board of Trustees members at large shall presume that it is feasible to farm the subject land in a profitable manner and the landowner has the burden to rebut this presumption.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The standard by which feasibility of profitable farming is measured is based on whether any landowner can profitably farm the land in question and not whether the particular landowner seeking termination has been able to profitably farm the land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Foundation’s Decision. The Foundation Board of Trustees members at large shall prepare a written decision regarding the landowner’s termination request, which decision shall either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Deny the termination request and end the termination review process; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Approve the termination request for additional consideration by the Secretary and the State Treasurer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Secretary and State Treasurer Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary and State Treasurer shall consider a landowner’s termination request only if the county governing body and the Foundation Board of Trustees members at large approve a landowner’s termination request in writing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An easement may only be terminated if both the Secretary and the State Treasurer approve the request for termination, which approval or denial may be provided by the Secretary and the State Treasurer’s designees serving on the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Appeal."> <text>The landowner seeking the termination request may appeal any decision of the county governing body, the Foundation Board of Trustees members at large, the Secretary or the State Treasurer to the circuit court of the county where the land is located.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Landowner Repurchase of Easement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Order of Two Appraisals at Landowner’s Expense. Within 10 days after both the Secretary and the State Treasurer approve the termination request, the landowner shall remit good funds as instructed by the Foundation to pay for the cost of two appraisals to determine the fair market value of the easement land, which appraisals shall be ordered by the Department of General Services. The date of valuation shall be the date that the Foundation Board of Trustees members at large approved the landowner’s termination request. If the Department of General Services must also determine the agricultural value of the land as provided by §C(1) of this regulation, it shall order two appraisals of the agricultural value of the land at the same time it orders the two appraisals to determine the fair market value of the easement land. The landowner shall pay the costs to acquire all such appraisals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Determining Fair Market Value. After review of the two appraisals of the subject property, the Department of General Services shall determine the land’s fair market value and promptly notify the Foundation in writing of its determination. For purposes of this regulation, the fair market value of land is the price as of the valuation date for the highest and best use of the property which a vendor, willing but not obligated to sell, would accept for the property, and which a purchaser, willing but not obligated to buy, would pay for the property if it were not subject to an agricultural land preservation easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Determining Agricultural Value.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Based on the Ordered Appraisals. If, at the time the Foundation acquired the easement, the land’s agricultural value was determined by an appraisal, the Department of General Services shall determine the land’s agricultural value and promptly notify the Foundation of its determination. For purposes of this regulation, the agricultural value of land, as determined by an appraisal, is the price as of the valuation date which a vendor, willing but not obligated to sell, would accept for the property, and which a purchaser, willing but not obligated to buy, would pay for the property as a farm unit, to be used for agricultural purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Based on the Agricultural Formula. If, at the time the Foundation acquired the easement, the land’s agricultural value was determined by the agricultural formula, the Foundation shall use the formula in effect at the time for determining the land’s agricultural value.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Foundation shall notify the landowner of the land’s approved fair market value and agricultural value after:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department of General Services has notified the Foundation of these approved values as provided in §§B and C(1) of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If applicable, the Foundation determines the land’s agricultural value as provided in §C(2) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Election to Repurchase. As required by Agriculture Article, §2-514(i)(4)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland, the landowner has no more than 30 days following the notification set forth in §D of this regulation to elect to repurchase the easement by paying to the Foundation the difference between the fair market value and the agricultural value of the subject land. Such election notice must be received by the Foundation, in writing, within 30 days following the date of the notification set forth in §D of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Repurchase. The landowner has no more than 180 days following the notification set forth in §D of this regulation to repurchase the easement by paying to the Foundation the difference between the fair market value and the agricultural value of the subject land, subject to Board of Public Works approval, as set forth in State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-301 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Upon receipt of payment of all required funds as specified in §§A and F of this regulation, the Foundation shall prepare, execute, and deliver to the landowner for recording a Termination of Easement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Subsequent Request for Termination After Denial or Failure to Repurchase."> <text>If a request for termination is denied, or if the landowner fails to elect to repurchase the easement within 30 days of the notification required under Regulation .08D of this chapter, or fails to repurchase the easement within 180 days of the same notification, the landowner may not again request termination of the easement until 5 years after the last request for termination.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504 and 2-514, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November 7, 2005 (32:22 Md. R. 1758)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective March 3, 2014 (41:4 Md. R. 305)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.09 repealed and new Regulations .01—.09 adopted effective October 8, 2018 (45:20 Md. R. 919)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="06" heading="Lot Released from Easement for Landowner or Child"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter applies to any lot released by the Foundation to an eligible landowner or landowner's child for the landowner's or landowner's child's use and occupancy on a farm. This chapter describes release procedures and explains when the lot may be conveyed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The lots permitted to be released from the deed of easement under this chapter are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Restricted under the terms of each agricultural land preservation easement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Intended only for the limited purpose of constructing a dwelling for the eligible landowner who sold or transferred an easement to the Foundation or for the child of a landowner or landowners, thereby allowing immediate family members to live on the farm.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Except as provided by this chapter, these dwellings or lots may not be transferred or conveyed to any other person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>This chapter does not apply to an unrestricted lot released by the Foundation from the deed easement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms has the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Child” means the child of an eligible landowner who sold or transferred an agricultural land preservation easement to the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Dwelling” means the dwelling house, including lot acreage, allowed to be released under Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, and under the terms of an agricultural land preservation easement, for the use and occupancy of an eligible landowner or landowner's child on the farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Farm” means the land encumbered by the agricultural land preservation easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Landowner” means the landowner or landowners who sold or transferred an agricultural land preservation easement to the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Lot Eligibility."> <text>Upon approval and release by the Foundation, only a landowner who sold or transferred an easement to the Foundation or a landowner’s child is eligible to construct a dwelling on a lot on the farm for the bona fide use and occupancy of the landowner or the child.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Lot Approval and Release."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Before a lot may be released from an easement’s restrictions for the construction of a dwelling house, the landowner shall submit a signed application to the Foundation. The application shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A declaration that the lot and dwelling are for the use only of the landowner or the landowner’s child, whichever is the case;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the application is for an owner’s lot and there is more than one landowner, a statement acknowledging that the right to request release of the eligible owner’s lot is being exercised;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the application is for a child’s lot, a copy of the birth certificate of the landowner’s child to prove that the landowner’s child is a minimum of 18 years old at the date of the issuance of the preliminary release;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A description of the land where the dwelling is to be located, along with proposed access to the dwelling;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A survey plat or tax map that shows the precise location of the proposed lot; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Signed statements indicating approval of the lot from both the local agricultural land preservation advisory board and the county planning and zoning department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Corporation or Similar Entity’s Request for Child’s Lot. The Foundation may not approve an application from a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, or other similar entity (“the entity”) for an owner’s or child’s lot unless:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At the time of the sale of the deed of easement, the entity is owned by family members who are actively engaged in the daily agricultural operations on the land (“the original family members”);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>At the time of the request for an owner’s lot or child’s lot, at least one of the original family members has retained an uninterrupted, continuous ownership interest in the entity or its successor since the sale of the deed of easement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The entity is otherwise eligible to have a lot released.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Owner’s Lot. If an easement property has more than one landowner, only one lot may be released for the use and occupancy of an owner, regardless of how the land is titled (that is, as tenants in common, joint tenancy, tenancy by the entirety, or in an entity).</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Lot Release."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Two-Part Release.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>After Foundation approval, the release of the lot shall consist of two parts, a preliminary release and a final release, as specified in Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>After receiving payment for the lot, the Foundation will issue a preliminary release which conditionally releases the lot from the terms of the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Foundation will issue a final release when the Foundation receives and certifies a nontransferable building permit in the name of the landowner or child for the construction of a dwelling house.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The preliminary release becomes void:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon the death of the person for whom the release was intended if the Foundation has not yet received a building permit; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the Foundation does not receive a nontransferable building permit in the name of the landowner or the child within 3 years of the date of recordation of the preliminary release, unless extended by a majority vote of the Foundation Board of Trustees.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the person for whom the release was intended occupies the dwelling before a final release is issued, the Foundation may give credit for the occupancy toward the 5-year period referred to in Regulation .06 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Lot Transfer Restrictions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A landowner or child who has a lot released under the terms of the easement shall occupy the dwelling constructed on the lot and may not convey or lease the improved lot to any person until 5 years after the effective date of the final release. The Foundation may require evidence that the person for whom the lot was released occupies the dwelling for the 5-year period.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before the expiration of the 5-year period, the Foundation may only approve a landowner’s or child’s request to convey a lot improved with a dwelling upon the occurrence of the following events:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notice to the Foundation of a transfer pursuant to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A bona fide foreclosure of a mortgage or deed of trust; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A deed in lieu of foreclosure;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The death of the landowner or the child for whom the lot was released;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A decree of divorce where the landowner or child is ordered to sell or convey the lot as part of a bona fide property settlement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A change of employment location of the landowner or child for whom the lot was released if the Foundation determines that it would be impractical for the landowner or child to commute to the new work location; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any other circumstance, as determined by the Foundation, where it would be impossible for the landowner or child to continue to occupy the dwelling.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For purposes of illustration by way of example and not limitation, the Foundation may require the owner of the released lot to convey the lot to the current owner of the land encumbered by the easement from which it was released and subject the lot to the terms of the easement, if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A dwelling constructed upon the lot is conveyed or leased to a person other than the owner or child for whom the lot was released before the expiration of the 5-year period;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The lot is conveyed or leased to another person prior to the construction of a dwelling for the personal residential use of the landowner or child;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A dwelling is not constructed upon the lot during the lifetime of the landowner or child for whom the lot was released; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The landowner or child for whom the lot was released relinquishes the right to construct a dwelling on the lot.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Easement Violation."> <text>A person who conveys, or receives, a lot in violation of this chapter is in violation of Agriculture Article, Title 2, Subtitle 5, Annotated Code of Maryland, the terms of the agricultural land preservation easement applicable to the farm, and the terms of the applicable release.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504 and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.06 adopted as an emergency provision effective July 17, 2006 (33:17 Md. R. 1435); adopted permanently effective November 6, 2006 (33:22 Md. R. 1733)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective July 8, 2013 (40:13 Md. R. 1076)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="07" heading="Approval for Uses of or Activities on Farmland Subject to an Agricultural Land Preservation District or Easement"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes the criteria and eligibility for the approval of allowable uses or activities on a farm subject to an agricultural land preservation easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Eligibility."> <text>The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation may approve farm, forest, or home occupation related uses or activities of eligible landowners on a farm subject to easement restrictions even though the use or activity does not strictly fall within the definition of traditional agricultural use. Each request shall be reviewed by the Foundation based on the criteria provided by this chapter to determine if a landowner's requested use or activity conflicts with the overall purpose of the easement to preserve the farm for agricultural use and as open-space land.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Criteria to be Considered."> <text>The Foundation shall consider the following criteria in determining whether to approve or disapprove any use or activity:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Proportion of size of use or activity to total farm operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Compatibility with farm or forest production;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Potential damage to soil productivity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Extent of use of existing farm structures or buildings, and impact on the value of the existing structure for farm or forestry use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Whether any new structure or parking to support the use meets Foundation guidelines for location, scale, and impervious surfaces;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Compatibility with the rural character of the farm and the surrounding area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>County advisory board recommendation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Compatibility with the implementation or maintenance of a best management practice provided in a soil conservation and water quality plan for the farm and, if applicable, a Forest Stewardship Plan or a nutrient management plan; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Impact on sensitive natural resources on the farm, such as steep slopes, highly erodible soils, wetlands, or stream buffers.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Procedure."> <text>Before the Foundation may consider a request for approval of any use or activity provided by this chapter, all of the following information shall be submitted by the county on behalf of the landowner:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An application for approval that has been completed and signed by all titled landowners that fully and completely describes the proposed use or activity on the farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A letter of recommendation from the local agricultural land preservation advisory board or program administrator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A written statement from the local planning and zoning office, or the county program administrator, indicating that the proposed use or activity is permitted as of right or by special exception under local zoning; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A written statement from the local soil conservation district that the use or activity does not:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Interfere in the implementation or maintenance of a best management practice for the farm provided in its soil conservation and water quality plan; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Adversely impact sensitive natural resources on the farm, if this statement is requested by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Violation."> <text>Any landowner who violates an approval by the Foundation for any use or activity may also be in violation of that landowner's district agreement or agricultural land preservation easement. This violation may result in the rejection of the landowner's offer to sell an easement or in the enforcement of easement restrictions.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504 and 2-513(b), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November 3, 2008 (35:22 Md. R. 1959)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="08" heading="Installment Purchase Agreement Grant Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter establishes the criteria for a program administered by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation to purchase easements under an installment purchase agreement for farmland selected by the Foundation, in cooperation with:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An eligible county, if a landowner chooses an eligible county's installment purchase agreement program; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation, if a landowner chooses the Foundation's installment purchase agreement program.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“County” means any county containing productive agricultural land that is actively farmed and that meets the criteria for land for easement purchase by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Easement” means an agricultural land preservation easement as defined by COMAR 15.15.01.01-2.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Eligible county” means a county as provided in this chapter that has been approved by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation for a county IPA program, pursuant to Regulation .04A of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Escrow closing” means the date when all documents have been executed in connection with the sale of an easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Foundation” means the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“IPA” means an installment purchase agreement between a landowner and an eligible county or the Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation to purchase an easement by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Payment of semiannual interest at a fixed interest rate on the outstanding balance of the easement purchase price; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Payment of the outstanding balance of the easement purchase price in one or more installments over a stated term of years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Landowner” means the fee simple owner of land that is subject to easement restrictions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“MARBIDCO” means the Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“MOU” means a memorandum of understanding that states the duties and responsibilities between the Foundation and an eligible county as to grants to purchase an easement through an IPA program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Settlement” means the date established at escrow closing, when interest on any installment purchase agreement begins to accrue.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Landowner's Option for Installment Purchase Agreement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Foundation may offer to buy an easement from a landowner through an IPA either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In an eligible county where the land will be subjected to easement restrictions; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Through MARBIDCO, if the offer is not for less than $100,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>At the time of escrow closing on an IPA, the landowner and the Foundation shall agree to the terms of an IPA, including the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Payment from MARBIDCO shall be made in cash for not less than:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The maximum value, based on the Foundation's per-acre purchase price, of any easements on an unrestricted lot or family lots reserved by the landowner at escrow closing for future purchase from the Foundation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Any additional amounts, as required by the Foundation;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Payment from MARBIDCO shall be made in one or more IPAs, each in a principal amount not less than $100,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An IPA shall be with the appropriate eligible county or MARBIDCO; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If the IPA is with MARBIDCO, the maturity date shall be at least 10 years from settlement for each IPA.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A landowner's designation of the appropriate eligible county for an IPA shall be approved by the eligible county before escrow closing.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Grant to Eligible County."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A county is an eligible county for purposes of this chapter upon the Foundation's approval and after submission by the county to the Foundation of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The IPA form to be used by the county to purchase easements pursuant to a Foundation offer, which installment purchase agreement shall meet the requirements of Agriculture Article, §2-510.1(b), Annotated Code of Maryland, and otherwise be acceptable to the Foundation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The opinion of bond counsel form that states that the IPA is legal, valid and binding, and that interest paid under the IPA is exempt from federal and Maryland state and local income taxes, in form and substance satisfactory to the Foundation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An ordinance, resolution, or other evidence of approval acceptable to the Foundation authorizing the issuance of the IPA by the county.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The terms of an eligible county's IPA program are governed by an MOU that states the duties and obligations between the Foundation and an eligible county and shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Require the county to make annual equal payments to the landowner of interest on the outstanding balance of the purchase price;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Require that the county pay the landowner the remainder of the purchase price at the end of the term;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>State the total amount of money the county will pay the landowner, the interest rate, and the terms of the agreement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Require that the easement be recorded within 30 days of settlement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a landowner elects to sell an easement through an IPA with an eligible county, the Foundation shall, before escrow closing on the easement, ask the State Treasurer to provide funds for the Foundation's portion of the easement purchase price as a grant to the eligible county.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>An easement acquired by an eligible county according to an IPA:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Shall be held jointly by the eligible county and the Foundation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>May not terminate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An eligible county may use a Foundation grant described in §C of this regulation to provide for the easement purchase price due under the IPA.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If the amount of the Foundation grant exceeds the amount needed by a county to settle the easement transaction, the remaining amount of the grant shall be used to extend offers to purchase additional easements within that county in ranking order as provided by Agriculture Article, §2-510, Annotated Code of Maryland. However if there are no additional approved applicants within that county, the remaining IPA grant funds shall be retained, along with any future fund allocation by the Foundation, for up to two subsequent easement cycles for the purpose of making IPA easement offers to applicants in that county. IPA grant funds not used within those three consecutive easement cycles will revert to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Fund.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>County IRA grant funds from the Foundation may only be used for farmland easement purchases, and may not be used to make offers through any local preservation program or to pay interest on an IPA.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>An eligible county may not use a Foundation grant for an IPA in the Foundation's matching grant program pursuant to Agriculture Article, §2-512, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Foundation IPA."> <text>If a landowner elects to participate in the Foundation IPA program, and a county is paying a portion of the easement purchase price, the county shall provide its portion to the Foundation within 30 days of the Foundation's notice.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504, 2-505, and 2-510.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: July 17, 2008 (35:14 Md. R. 1247)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="09" heading="Civil Penalty Standards"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Penalty in Violation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Foundation may impose a civil penalty on an owner of a property whose farm is subject to the terms of an easement granted under Agriculture Article, Title 2, Subtitle 5, Annotated Code of Maryland, who violates that subtitle, any regulations adopted in accordance with the subtitle, or the terms of the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A civil penalty may be imposed by the Foundation instead of, or in addition to, any remedies at law or in equity.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Violation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Property Use. Except as otherwise permitted by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, the deed of easement, or Foundation approval, the Foundation may impose a civil penalty on a property owner subject to this chapter who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Uses easement property for commercial, industrial, or residential use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Grants an easement, right-of-way, oil, gas, or mineral lease, or similar servitude on land to any person or government agency;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Erects a sign, billboard, or outdoor advertising on easement property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Dumps ashes, sawdust, bark, trash, or rubbish on easement property, except when used in normal agricultural practices; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Violates an approval by the Foundation for any use or activity under the deed of easement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Property Management. Except as otherwise permitted by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, the deed of easement, or Foundation approval, the Foundation may impose a civil penalty on a property owner subject to this chapter who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Fails to manage easement property with sound agricultural soil and water conservation practices; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Fails to manage easement property with sound forest stewardship practices, if the land contains 25 acres or more of contiguous forest.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Subdivision or Conveyance. Except as otherwise permitted by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, the deed of easement, or Foundation approval, the Foundation may impose a civil penalty on a property owner subject to this chapter who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Divides, partitions, or subdivides the property, or otherwise creates a lot for any purpose, including off conveyance or boundary line adjustment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sells, transfers, gives, bequeaths, donates, or otherwise divides, any pre-existing subdivided parcel separately from the total of the parts in an easement, whether voluntarily, involuntarily, or by reason of foreclosure or bankruptcy;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Transfers or sells any remaining developmental rights of the property; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Fails to comply with lot transfer restrictions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Dwelling House. Except as otherwise permitted by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, the deed of easement, or Foundation approval, the Foundation may impose a civil penalty on a property owner subject to this chapter who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Constructs a dwelling on easement property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Constructs a replacement dwelling house on easement property; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Permits any lot or dwelling house constructed on an owner's or child's lot to be used for the purposes of an individual other than a property owner or, in the case of a child's lot, the identified child.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Tenant House. Except as otherwise permitted by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, the deed of easement, or Foundation approval, the Foundation may impose a civil penalty on a property owner subject to this chapter who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Constructs a tenant house on easement property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Allows a dwelling designated as a tenant house to be occupied entirely by individuals who are not fully engaged in the operation of the farm; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Subdivides and separately conveys a tenant house or the land where it is constructed, or both.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Foundation may impose a civil penalty on a property owner subject to this chapter who violates any other law or regulatory requirement governing the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program, an individual deed of easement acquired by the Foundation, or Foundation approval or policy.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Violation Classification and Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Foundation may impose a penalty for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Up to $2,500 for each violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each day a violation occurs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Up to $50,000 in penalties during one administrative hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before imposing any civil penalty under this chapter, the Foundation shall consider the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The nature and gravity of each violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation and the extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator but uncorrected by the violator; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A history of prior violations, if any.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Civil Penalty Procedure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Foundation shall issue a written notice of violation to the property owner upon finding that a violation has occurred or is ongoing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A written notice of violation shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A statement of the statute, regulation, or deed of easement violated by the landowner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A description of the evidence of a violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A statement informing the property owner of the right to an informal meeting with the Foundation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The amount of the proposed civil penalty;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A statement of the remedial action necessary to bring the property owner into compliance; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A reasonable amount of time, as determined by the Foundation, to correct a violation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the alleged violation still exists after the property owner has had an opportunity for an informal meeting and a reasonable amount of time to correct the violation, the Foundation may issue a written notice of violation with a penalty.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Contested Case Hearing; Appeal."> <text>A property owner may petition the Foundation for a contested case hearing on the violation and penalty within 30 calendar days of the issuance of the notice of violation by the Foundation. The Office of Administrative Hearings shall conduct a hearing and issue proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law pursuant to State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland. The Foundation shall adopt or reject the proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law and issue a final decision. An owner may then appeal the Foundation's decision as provided by Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Penalty Payment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless a property owner requests a contested case hearing, the property owner shall promptly pay the penalty.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Payment of a penalty is not a substitute for compliance. If the property owner continues to violate this chapter, the Foundation may impose additional civil penalties or pursue other remedies at law or in equity.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Violation Date."> <text>This chapter applies to any violation that occurs on or after October 1, 2009.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-519, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 17, 2010 (37:10 Md. R. 724)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="10" heading="Confidential Records"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter explains the confidentiality requirement and its duration for records relating to the sale of an easement to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation. Confidentiality of records is maintained during an offer cycle to ensure the integrity of the offer and sale process for all participants. An offer cycle begins upon submission of a property owner's application and ends as provided by this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Record Custodian."> <text>This chapter applies to a custodian of public records as defined by the State Government Article, §10-611, Annotated Code of Maryland. For purposes of this chapter, a public record is defined by State Government Article, §10-611, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Confidentiality Requirement."> <text>A public record subject to the Maryland Public Information Act relating to a property owner's ranking, asking price, or offer by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation under Agriculture Article, §§2-501—2-519, Annotated Code of Maryland, is confidential. A custodian may not disclose the record until the end of the Foundation's offer cycle as provided by this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="End of Offer Cycle; Duration of Confidentiality."> <text>A public record subject to this chapter is available for public inspection and disclosure at the end of an offer cycle. An offer cycle for an individual applicant ends on the earlier of the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When an offer from the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation is scheduled for review by the Board of Public Works; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>November 1 of the year when offers are being made for an applicant pool.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-510(m), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 17, 2010 (37:10 Md. R. 724)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="11" heading="Corrective Agricultural Land Preservation Easements"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes the criteria and procedure for entering into a corrective easement on a farm subject to an agricultural land preservation easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Agricultural Subdivision.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>"Agricultural subdivision” means a division of land for an agricultural purpose.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Agricultural subdivision” includes the lease of any part or parts less than 100 percent of the total parts of the land for a term in excess of 20 years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Boundary line adjustment” means a change in the legal description contained in the Deed of Easement for the purposes of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Corrective easement” means an amendment to an existing easement, an overlay easement over an existing easement, or, in the case of agricultural subdivision, a modification to an existing easement to create two or more separately enforceable easements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Easement violation” means any action prohibited by, or a failure to act as required by, the agricultural land preservation easement, Agriculture Article, §2-501 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland, or COMAR 15.15.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>"Exchange” means that land of equal or greater value in terms of acreage and soil types is brought under easement in consideration of land of equal or lesser value being released.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Landowner” means the person or entity owning the land subject to the easement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Criteria."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Approval. The approval for a corrective easement by the Foundation is not an absolute right of a landowner, and requests shall be reviewed by the Foundation on a case-by-case basis. A request shall be reviewed to determine if the proposed corrective easement will either enhance or have no effect upon any agricultural operation being conducted upon the land. A corrective easement may be used to adjust boundary lines, resolve easement violations, or accommodate a plan that the Foundation has determined will benefit the agricultural operations on the land encumbered by an easement, and may include such other additional terms, conditions, waivers, or restrictions that the Foundation deems appropriate to protect the agricultural viability of the farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Form of Corrective Easement. A corrective easement may be titled “Amendment to Easement”, “Amendment and Grant to Easement”, or “Corrective Easement.” A corrective easement may also take the form of an “Overlay Easement” when, in the opinion of the Foundation, the existing easement may not be amended because all necessary parties cannot be joined.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Boundary Line Adjustment.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the proposed corrective easement involves the adjustment of boundary lines and part of the land encumbered by the easement is to be released, then:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An equal or greater amount of land of equal or better soil types shall be added to the land under easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The value of the easement will not be diminished by the proposed exchange;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The proposed exchange shall be approved by the Board of Public Works; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The landowner shall pay for the cost of all title work, title insurance premiums, surveys, and documentation necessary on both the land under easement and the land to be added by corrective easement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the proposed corrective easement involves the adjustment of boundary lines and no part of the land encumbered by the easement is to be released, then the Foundation may approve the corrective easement if it will either enhance or have no effect upon the agricultural operations being conducted upon the land. The Foundation may not pay additional consideration for land gained by any corrective easement without Board of Public Works approval.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the proposed corrective easements involve an adjustment of boundary lines between two or more adjacent parcels of land encumbered by separate easements, and such boundary line adjustments do not reduce the total aggregate acreage encumbered by such easements, then the Foundation may approve the corrective easements if they will either enhance or have no effect upon the agricultural operations conducted upon the land. The Foundation may not pay additional consideration for land gained by any corrective easement without Board of Public Works approval.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Resolving Easement Violations. If the Foundation approves a corrective easement in order to resolve a violation of the easement, the landowner shall pay for the cost of all title work, title insurance premiums, surveys, and documentation necessary to cure the violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Accommodation of a Plan to Benefit the Agricultural Operation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the Foundation approves a corrective easement in order to accommodate a plan to benefit the agricultural operation, the landowner shall pay for the cost of all title work, title insurance premiums, surveys, and documentation necessary to accommodate the plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the Foundation approves an agricultural subdivision under the provisions of COMAR 15.15.12.01 et seq., the approval is considered to be an accommodation of a plan to benefit the agricultural operation and shall constitute an approval for corrective easements.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Previously Approved Agricultural Subdivision. If, prior to the enactment of this chapter, the Foundation approved an agricultural subdivision of the land, without requiring all owners of the divided parcels to execute corrective easements to recognize the approved divided parcels, all owners of the divided parcels shall agree to the proposed amendment of an easement. If all owners do not agree, the corrective easement may take the form of an overlay easement from the landowners making the request for a corrective easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Single Tax Parcel. If possible, land that has been approved for corrective easement which is comprised of more than one tax parcel shall be consolidated into a single tax parcel with identification number. In the event of approval of an agricultural subdivision, if possible, each resulting subdivided parcel shall be a single tax parcel with identification number.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Existing Easement Violations. The Foundation may refuse to approve a request for a corrective easement if an easement violation exists upon the land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Exceptions to Criteria. The criteria set forth in this regulation do not apply to those corrective easement applications addressed in Regulation .06 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Corrective Easement Application Procedure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Before the Foundation may consider a request for a corrective easement, a landowner shall submit the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An application, completed and signed by each titled landowner to all of the land encumbered by the easement, which addresses the criteria in Regulation .03 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An unmarked copy of the tax map or boundary survey which outlines the entire easement land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A second copy of the tax map which shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Boundaries of the easement land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If applicable, the location of the proposed change in boundary lines, and the amount of acreage involved; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Location of, and access to, all preexisting dwellings, lot exclusions, tenant houses, and farm buildings;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A written statement from the landowner indicating:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The reason for the request and an explanation of how the corrective easement will enhance or have no effect upon the agricultural operations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The name, address, email address, and telephone number of all landowners whose lands are involved in the request; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Who will pay for the costs of the transaction;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A written statement from the county program administrator describing:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The current overall farm operation and whether the proposed corrective easement will enhance or will have no effect upon the agricultural operations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If applicable, whether an exchange of land is permissible under county subdivision regulations; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A letter of recommendation from the local agricultural land preservation advisory board.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Exceptions to Corrective Easement Application Procedure. The application procedure under this regulation does not apply to those corrective easement applications addressed in Regulation .06 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Requirements upon Approvals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A landowner may not proceed with plans pursuant to the approval until the corrective easement has been recorded among the land records in the county in which the land is located, unless the Foundation issues a letter permitting the landowner to proceed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Boundary Line Adjustment.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the Foundation approves the request for corrective easement for boundary line adjustment, the landowner shall submit to the Foundation a survey plat, signed and sealed by a surveyor registered in the State of Maryland depicting the land area to be released from the easement, if any, and the land area to be encumbered by the easement, along with separate written metes and bounds descriptions of those areas. The Foundation has discretion to alter these survey and land description requirements on a case-by-case basis to suit the purposes of the proposed boundary line adjustment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the Board of Public Works approves the request, the landowner shall remit funds in the amount and manner directed by the Foundation to cover the costs of the transaction as specified in Regulation .03 of this chapter and shall furnish such other documentation as directed by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Agricultural Subdivision. In cases of agricultural subdivision, the landowners shall follow the requirements and procedures provided in COMAR 15.15.12.05B.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Other Corrective Easements. If the request is approved, the landowner shall remit funds in the amount and manner directed by the Foundation to cover the costs of the transaction as specified in Regulation .03 of this chapter and shall furnish such other documentation as directed by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Except as provided in §F of this regulation, if the funds and documentation required by this regulation are not provided by the landowner to the Foundation within 3 years of Foundation board approval, then, unless an extension request is submitted within 3 years and approved by Foundation staff, the approval is void.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If a corrective easement is approved pursuant to Regulation .03D of this chapter, such approval shall expire upon the Foundation board deciding that the applicant has not acted with diligence to complete the corrective easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Exceptions to Requirements upon Approvals. The requirements of this regulation do not apply to the types of corrective easement applications addressed in Regulation .06 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Administrative Approvals for Corrective Easements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following types of applications for corrective easements may be approved administratively because they are considered an accommodation of a plan to benefit the agricultural operation, and they either enhance or have no effect upon agricultural operations:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Correction of Error. The proposed corrective easement involves the correction of an error in the legal description or some other clerical error contained in the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Waiver of Right to Request Termination. A landowner’s application to waive the right to request termination under Agriculture Article, §2-514, Annotated Code of Maryland, and to amend the easement to so specify.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Adoption of Current Easement Terms. A landowner’s application to amend an existing easement to conform to the terms of the Foundation’s current easement template.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before the Foundation may consider a request for a corrective easement under this regulation, a landowner shall submit the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An application, completed and signed by each titled landowner to all of the land encumbered by the easement, explaining the purpose of the requested corrective easement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any other documents or materials the Foundation determines necessary to approve the requested corrective easement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Executive Director of the Foundation may approve applications under this regulation with the concurrence of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees and the Secretary of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504, 2-509, and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.05 adopted as an emergency provision effective June 8, 2011 (38:14 Md. R. 788); adopted permanently effective August 8, 2011 (38:16 Md. R. 945)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective July 26, 2021 (48:15 Md. R. 593)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective July 26, 2021 (48:15 Md. R. 593)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective July 26, 2021 (48:15 Md. R. 593)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05E adopted effective September 1, 2014 (41:17 Md. R. 971)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 adopted effective July 26, 2021 (48:15 Md. R. 593)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="12" heading="Agricultural Subdivision"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter explains the policy of the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation to regulate the subdivision of land encumbered by an agricultural land preservation easement, including the criteria, eligibility, and procedure for the approval of an agricultural subdivision of a farm.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Purpose."> <text>All of the land subject to an agricultural land preservation easement acquired by the Foundation is considered to be one parcel of land even if the total acreage comprises separately described parcels or government-assigned tax parcels or accounts. Common ownership of parcels constituting the farm fulfills the legislative intent to protect the future productivity and profitability of Maryland farms. To preserve the integrity of easement land, agricultural land preservation easements generally preclude a landowner from dividing the farm into smaller parcels or conveying less than the whole farm subject to easement without Foundation approval.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural purpose” means the use of land to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Provide sources of food and fiber; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Produce, process, or store agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>"Agricultural subdivision” means a division of land for an agricultural purpose.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Corrective easements" means a modification to an existing easement to create two or more separately enforceable easements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Easement violation” means any action prohibited by, or a failure to act as required by, the agricultural land preservation easement, Agriculture Article, §2-501 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland, or COMAR 15.15.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Land” means all that real property encumbered by the easement and intended to constitute one farm parcel, whether or not comprised of separately described parcels or government-assigned tax parcels or accounts.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Landowner” means the person or entity owning the land encumbered by the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Subdivision” or “subdivide” means the division of land into two or more parts or parcels. Subdivision includes the lease of any part or parts less than 100 percent of the total parts of the land for a term in excess of 20 years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Subdivision Prohibition."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Prohibition. Except as approved by the Foundation as provided by this chapter and in COMAR 15.15.01.17C. and 15.15.06.01—.06, a landowner may not subdivide land encumbered by an easement, including the movement of interior boundary lines, or transfer or cause to be transferred, any part or parts separately from the total acreage of the land, voluntarily, involuntarily, by testamentary disposition, or by reason of foreclosure or bankruptcy.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Exception for Agricultural Subdivision. The Foundation may give written approval to a landowner’s request for an agricultural subdivision of the land and separate ownership of the resulting divided parcels for reasons the Foundation considers sufficiently extraordinary to justify an exception to the prohibition against subdivision. The approval for an agricultural subdivision is not an absolute right of a landowner, and requests shall be reviewed by the Foundation on a case-by-case basis to determine if, in the Foundation’s opinion:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The proposed agricultural subdivision serves an agricultural purpose;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The proposed agricultural subdivision will enhance or have no effect upon the agricultural operations being conducted upon the land; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The resulting divided parcels from the agricultural subdivision are able to sustain long-term agricultural production, independent of each other.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Corrective Easements. If the Foundation approves an agricultural subdivision under this Chapter, approval shall be to accommodate a plan that the Foundation has determined will benefit the agricultural operation as required by Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland, and COMAR 15.15.11. Corrective easements are required to formalize the Foundation’s approval. The corrective easements may include other additional terms, conditions, waivers, or restrictions that the Foundation considers appropriate to protect the agricultural purpose and the future profitability of resulting divided farm parcels. The landowner shall pay for the cost of all title work, title insurance premiums, surveys, and documentation necessary to complete the agricultural subdivision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Waiver of Right to Request Termination. For easements approved for purchase by the Board of Public Works prior to October 1, 2004, the owners of all of the resulting divided parcels of an approved agricultural subdivision under this chapter shall waive the right to request termination under Agriculture Article, §2-514, Annotated Code of Maryland, and shall agree to specify the waiver in the corrective easements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Acreage and Soils Requirements for Agricultural Subdivision. The resulting divided parcels shall each be at least 50 acres, and each parcel shall meet the minimum soils requirement, as provided by COMAR 15.15.01.03D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Exceptions to Acreage Requirement. The Foundation may permit resulting divided parcels of less than 50 acres of land if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The resulting parcel of less than 50 acres continues to meet minimum soil requirements as provided by COMAR 15.15.01.03D independently of the original farm and one of the following conditions exists for the resulting divided parcel comprised of less than 50 acres:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Foundation determines that there exists a physical separation of land, created by:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Bodies of water;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Public roads; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Features that significantly restrict the movement of agricultural equipment from one portion of the land to another;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The resulting divided parcel comprised of less than 50 acres is conveyed to owners of adjoining land encumbered by an easement in favor of the Foundation, and both of the following occur:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The owner amends the easement encumbering the adjoining land to encumber the resulting divided parcel, or an overlay easement in favor of the Foundation is placed over the entire acreage constituting the resulting divided parcel and the adjoining land; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The resulting divided parcel and the adjoining land together meet minimum soils requirements as provided by COMAR 15.15.01.03D; or</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The resulting divided parcel comprised of less than 50 acres:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Is conveyed to owners of adjoining land encumbered by an easement containing terms which are acceptable to the Foundation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>An overlay easement in favor of the Foundation is placed over the entire acreage constituting the resulting divided parcel and the adjoining land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The resulting divided parcel or parcels remaining after the subdivision of the smaller parcel are at least 50 acres and continue to meet the minimum soils criteria, as provided by COMAR 15.15.01.03D.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Tenant House. If a tenant house was previously approved by the Foundation under COMAR 15.15.03 and it currently exists upon the land, an agricultural subdivision may be approved only if the following are met:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The resulting divided parcel on which the tenant house is situated is at least 100 acres, unless the Foundation approves otherwise according to COMAR 15.15.03.03 or §F of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The corrective easement restricts the tenant house to the use of a tenant as that term is defined in COMAR 15.15.03.02.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Existing Easement Violation. The Foundation may deny a request for an agricultural subdivision if an easement violation exists upon the land.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Previously Unapproved Subdivision."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Violation. The subdivision of land without Foundation approval is an easement violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Procedure. Upon discovery of an unapproved subdivision, the Foundation may either require that the land be restored to its original configuration or it may consider accepting a subdivision request from the owners of all of the resulting divided parcels. In its consideration of whether to accept a request for agricultural subdivision, the Foundation may rely on the recommendation of Foundation staff and the county program administrator. If the Foundation decides to accept a request for an agricultural subdivision, the owners of all of the resulting divided parcels shall submit an application with the documentation required by this chapter. The Foundation shall then determine if the subdivision qualifies for the exception to the subdivision prohibition as provided in this chapter. If the Foundation does not approve the agricultural subdivision, the land shall be restored to its original configuration under the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Requirements. An approval of the agricultural subdivision shall require that the owners comply with all of the requirements of this chapter, but, if any of the resulting divided parcels of the subdivision are less than 50 acres, the Foundation may waive the 50-acre requirement if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At the time of the subdivision:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Foundation’s regulations permitted the resulting divided parcels to be less than 50 acres; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The subdivision met the requirements of Regulation .04F of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The subdivision served an agricultural purpose;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The subdivision enhanced or had no effect upon the agricultural operations being conducted upon the land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The resulting divided parcels have sustained agricultural production independent of each other from the time of the subdivision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The resulting divided parcels still meet minimum soils requirements, as provided by COMAR 15.15.01.03D; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The landowners present evidence satisfactory to the Foundation to make a determination that the resulting divided parcels have sufficient potential to sustain agricultural production independent of each other in the future.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Agricultural Subdivision Application Procedure."> <text>Before the Foundation may consider a request for an agricultural subdivision, a landowner shall submit the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An application, completed and signed by each titled landowner to all of the land encumbered by the easement, which addresses the criteria in Regulation .04 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An unmarked copy of the tax map or boundary survey which outlines the entire easement land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A second copy of the tax map which shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Boundaries of the easement land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The location of the proposed line or lines of subdivision, and the amount of acreage each resulting divided parcel is proposed to contain; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The location of, and access to, all preexisting dwellings, lot exclusions, tenant houses, and farm buildings;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A written statement from the landowner indicating:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The reason for the request, including an explanation of how the agricultural subdivision serves the agricultural purpose, how it will enhance or have no effect upon the agricultural operations, and how the resulting divided parcels will be able to sustain long-term agricultural production, independent of each other;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If any rights to a lot or lots have been reserved, but still unexercised, under the easement, a proposal detailing which resulting divided parcel or parcels are to be allocated those rights;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The name, address, email address, and telephone number of all landowners whose lands are involved in the request; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The name of the individual or entity who will pay for the costs of the corrective easement transactions;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A written statement from the county program administrator describing the current overall farm operation, whether the proposed agricultural subdivision serves an agricultural purpose, whether it will enhance or will have no effect upon the agricultural operations, and whether the resulting divided parcels will be able to sustain long-term agricultural production, independent of each other;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A letter of recommendation from the local agricultural land preservation advisory board addressing the potential for continued agricultural use of each of the resulting divided parcels;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Written verification from the local tax assessment office that each of the resulting divided parcels continue to qualify for agricultural use assessment under Tax-Property Article, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>A letter from the local planning and zoning office or the county program administrator that the requested subdivision is consistent with county planning and zoning regulations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>If applicable, letters of support from organizations such as the Soil Conservation Service and Forest Service attesting to the long-term productive capabilities for each resulting divided parcel of less than 50 acres.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Requirements upon Approval."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A landowner may not proceed with plans pursuant to the approval until the corrective easements have been recorded among the land records in the county in which the land is situated, unless the Foundation issues a letter permitting the landowner to proceed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the Foundation approves the request, then the landowner:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Shall submit to the Foundation, 10 copies of a survey plat, signed and sealed by a surveyor registered in the State of Maryland depicting the resulting divided parcels of the land, along with separate written metes and bounds descriptions of those resulting divided parcels; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Shall remit funds in the amount and manner directed by the Foundation to cover the costs of the transaction as specified in Regulation .04C and shall furnish such other documentation as directed by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the funds and documentation required by this regulation are not provided by the landowner to the Foundation within 3 years of Foundation board approval, then, unless an extension request is submitted within 3 years and approved by Foundation staff, the approval is void.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504, 2-509, and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.07 adopted as an emergency provision effective June 8, 2011 (38:14 Md. R. 788); adopted permanently effective August 8, 2011 (38:16 Md. R. 945)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04F amended effective September 1, 2014 (41:17 Md. R. 971)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05C amended effective September 1, 2014 (41:17 Md. R. 971)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07C adopted effective September 1, 2014 (41:17 Md. R. 971)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="13" heading="Guidelines for Forest Easement Overlays"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes the criteria and eligibility standards for the approval of a forest easement overlay on land subject to an agricultural land preservation easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (the Foundation).</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Afforestation” means the establishment of tree cover on an area from which it has always or very long been absent, or the planting of open areas which are not presently in forest cover, as defined by Natural Resources Article, §5-1601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Forest.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Forest”, as defined by Natural Resources Article, §5-1601, Annotated Code of Maryland, means a biological community dominated by trees and other woody plants covering a land area of 10,000 square feet or greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Forest” includes:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Areas that have at least 100 trees per acre with at least 50 percent of those trees having a 2-inch or greater diameter at 4.5 feet above the ground and larger; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Forest areas that have been cut but not cleared.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>“Forest” does not include orchards.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Forest easement overlay” means a perpetual restriction placed on an existing Foundation easement property to create, restore, or preserve forest, whether for current tax or other incentives, to bank credits under a forest mitigation banking plan, or to meet requirements prescribed by the State or local authority to mitigate activities elsewhere on the property consistent with the agricultural land preservation easement held by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Forest mitigation” means the process by which the environmental impact of various development activities, from road construction to residential housing, is mitigated or offset by the restoration, enhancement, creation, or retention of forested land elsewhere, as required by the Maryland Forest Conservation Act of 1991, Natural Resources Article, §§5-1601—5-1613, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Forest mitigation banking” means the intentional restoration or creation of forests undertaken expressly for the purpose of providing credits for afforestation or reforestation requirements with enhanced environmental benefits from future activities, as defined by Natural Resources Article, §5-1601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Forest stewardship plan” or “forest management plan” means a plan prepared by a Maryland-licensed professional forester designed to manage land for productive, sustainable woodland purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Resource conservation purpose” means to preserve soil and natural resources, reduce sediment and nutrient runoff, or improve air and water quality through the implementation of one or more best management practices.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>To be eligible for consideration by the Foundation, a proposal for a forest easement overlay shall meet the requirements of a State or local forest conservation program, be approved by the applicable county’s planning authority, and be recommended by the county’s agricultural land preservation advisory board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>To be eligible for consideration by the Foundation, a proposal for a forest easement overlay shall be limited to 10 acres, or 10 percent of the total easement acreage, whichever is smaller, unless the Foundation determines otherwise. To be eligible, a forest easement overlay shall allow prescribed harvests.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A forest easement overlay for mitigation purposes shall offset development inside a priority funding area only, with the exception of mitigation required by a Foundation-approved lot release on the same easement property as described in §E of this regulation. Proposals for forest mitigation banking shall establish a reporting mechanism to the county and the Foundation for ensuring that credits, when taken, offset development in a priority funding area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Resource Conservation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A forest easement overlay shall serve a legitimate resource conservation purpose under a soil conservation and water quality plan or forest stewardship plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The proposed forest easement overlay shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contribute substantially to good land and environmental resource stewardship on the farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Be an appropriate best management practice (BMP) to achieve the resource conservation objectives for the farm, based on Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) standards and estimates;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Be included in the soil conservation and water quality plan and a forest stewardship or management plan for the farm; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Permit sustainable forest stewardship practices, including prescribed harvests.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Mitigation for Residential Development.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If a county requires on-site forest mitigation because of on-site residential development, the landowner shall so inform the Foundation at the time of the lot release request. In this case, a separate forest mitigation proposal is not required.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the lot release request is approved, the forest mitigation easement overlay document shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Be submitted to the Foundation for review in advance of recordation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Be subordinate to the agricultural land preservation easement unless otherwise required; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Allow prescribed harvests unless harvesting is restricted under the soil conservation and water quality plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="County Application Procedure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Before the Foundation may consider a proposal for a forest easement overlay, applicants shall first submit the following information to their county program administrator:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A current soil conservation and water quality plan, developed by the local soil conservation district, that describes the resource conservation purpose served;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For properties with 25 acres or more in contiguous woodland or where required by an underlying easement, a forest stewardship plan or forest management plan, developed within the past 10 years by a Maryland-licensed forester, which provides for sustainable forest stewardship and management practices, including prescribed harvests;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If a soil conservation and water quality plan is not required because the property is 100 percent woodland, proof of a forest stewardship plan or forest management plan, developed within the last 10 years by a Maryland-licensed professional forester, describing the resource conservation purpose served; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A completed Foundation application, including an assessment of the following criteria:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The restrictions that would be imposed on the current and future production options for the land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The potential effect of the forest easement on the ability of subsequent owners of the land to conduct profitable activities on the land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The amount of land proposed for forest easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The productivity of the soil or soils; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The resource conservation purpose being served.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The county program administrator shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Review the application and supporting documentation for completeness;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Present the application and supporting documentation to the county agricultural land preservation advisory board for its recommendation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Present the application and supporting documentation to the applicable county’s planning authority for approval; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Send the proposal to the Foundation if the county agricultural land preservation advisory board recommends the proposal and the applicable county’s planning authority approves the proposal, with documentation verifying the recommendation and approval.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>When the county agricultural land preservation advisory board reviews a forest easement overlay proposal, it shall consider the Foundation’s criteria for review set forth in Regulation .05B and C of this chapter and convey the basis for its recommendation to the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For forest mitigation proposals, the local government, whether it is the county program administrator or another responsible party chosen by the county, shall also identify in writing the type of development activity for which mitigation is required, locate the development activity on an appropriate map, inform the Foundation if the development activity is subject to the county’s approval and, if it is, verify that the county either has approved the project or believes that the development project is consistent with the plans, ordinances, and regulations governing its approval.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Foundation Application Procedure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon receiving a completed proposal from the county program administrator, the Foundation staff shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Review the proposal for completeness;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Submit the proposal to the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Office of Resource Conservation for a written opinion on the appropriateness of the forest easement overlay proposal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Submit the proposal, if it involves mitigation, to the Maryland Department of Planning for a written statement indicating whether the development to be facilitated by the forest mitigation is in a priority funding area, is consistent with the local comprehensive plan and State planning policy, and is not likely to encourage or support substantial further development in areas the Foundation is attempting to preserve; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Submit the complete proposal and staff recommendation to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After receiving the proposal and recommendation from the Foundation staff, the Board shall determine if the forest easement overlay is consistent with the Foundation’s mission and is appropriate for the easement property. The approval for a forest easement overlay on a Foundation easement or district property is not an absolute right of a landowner, and requests shall be reviewed by the Foundation on a case-by-case basis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Foundation shall also take into account the following criteria when reviewing a forest easement overlay proposal:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The restrictions that would be imposed on the current and future production options for the land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The potential effect of the forest easement on the ability of subsequent owners of the land to conduct profitable activities on the land, compatible with the Foundation’s easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The amount of the land proposed for an easement overlay;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The productivity of the soil or soils;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The resource conservation purpose being served;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The recommendation of the county agricultural land preservation advisory board; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Any other considerations appropriate and necessary to determine the proposal’s compatibility with the Foundation’s goals and objectives.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the request is to establish a forest easement overlay for a forest mitigation bank, the Foundation shall approve or deny the request after considering the criteria set forth in this regulation. If the Board approves an overlay for forest mitigation banking, future mitigation credits may be approved by the Foundation staff but shall offset development in a priority funding area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the forest easement overlay request is for a property subject to an easement with a 25-year termination clause, the landowner shall amend the deed of easement to waive the right to request termination of the easement after 25 years and to clarify the perpetual nature of the easement. The waiver requirement of this section does not apply to a forest easement overlay request if local law requires the request be made to offset the development of an on-site residential lot authorized under Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The forest easement overlay document shall be submitted to the Foundation for review in advance of recordation and be subordinate to the agricultural land preservation easement unless the Foundation determines that the State’s interest in the land would be compromised by doing so.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504 and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 27, 2011 (38:13 Md. R. 757)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective June 4, 2018 (45:11 Md. R. 579)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05E amended effective June 4, 2018 (45:11 Md. R. 579)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="14" heading="Renewable Energy Generation Facilities Approval for a Farm Subject to an Agricultural Land Preservation Easement"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter explains the Foundation’s criteria to approve an authorized renewable energy source (ARES) for commercial profit on a farm subject to an agricultural land preservation easement. The Foundation may only accept applications to approve an ARES on a farm subject to an agricultural land preservation easement before June 30, 2018. The Foundation may not approve any ARES on a farm subject to an agricultural land preservation easement after June 30, 2019.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Authorized renewable energy source,” or “ARES” means the following energy sources to generate electricity for commercial profit:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Solar;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Wind;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Anaerobic digestion of poultry litter so long as the facility is placed on fallow land; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Anaerobic digestion of livestock manure so long as the facility is placed on fallow land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Easement” means an agricultural land preservation easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Easement area” means the real property subject to an easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation, which property may consist of a single tax parcel or multiple tax parcels.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Facility agreement” means any lease, license, management agreement, or operating agreement between a farm owner and an ARES owner regarding an ARES on a farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Fallow land” means land that is plowed but left idle, uncultivated, or unplanted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Farm” means a farm or other real property subject to an easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation, which property may consist of a single tax parcel or multiple tax parcels.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Farm conservation plan” means a soil conservation and water quality plan for the farm, approved by a soil conservation district.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Foundation” means the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Raw materials” means poultry litter or livestock manure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Recording agreement” means an agreement between the Foundation and a farm owner, to be recorded among the appropriate land records, that states the duties and obligations between both parties consistent with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility Requirements."> <text>The Foundation may not approve an application to place an ARES on land subject to an easement, unless all of the following conditions are satisfied as to the proposed ARES.</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The ARES shall conform to all federal, State, and local laws, statutes and ordinances, unless such laws, statutes and ordinances are pre-empted by other law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The local agricultural preservation advisory board established under Agriculture Article, §2-504.1, Annotated Code of Maryland, has provided a favorable recommendation to have the proposed ARES placed on the farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Any ARES that will create electricity from wind must satisfy the location and height restrictions provided in Regulation .06 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>An ARES may not occupy more land than is necessary for its operation and maintenance, but in any case, the ARES may not occupy more than 5 percent or 5 acres, whichever is less, of the easement area. Permanent roads or structures necessary to operate and maintain the ARES are subject to the area restriction provided in this subsection. For any ARES conducting anaerobic digestion, the area restriction provided in this subsection shall also apply to effluent storage areas that are created to serve the ARES. Pre-existing effluent storage areas are not subject to the area restriction provided in this subsection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The area designated for an approved ARES on a farm shall constitute one contiguous area and may not constitute multiple areas on the farm, unless the Foundation approves otherwise based on sufficient justification provided by the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>An ARES may not interfere significantly with any agricultural use of the farm as determined by the Foundation in Regulation .05 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>An ARES may not violate any federal, State, or local restrictions applicable to the funds used by the Foundation to purchase the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>If an ARES generates electricity by anaerobic digestion, a majority of the raw materials used to generate electricity from the ARES shall originate from the farm subject to the easement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>If an ARES generates electricity by anaerobic digestion, the ARES shall use only poultry litter or livestock manure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>If an ARES generates electricity by anaerobic digestion, the ARES shall be located on fallow land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>The farm owner and the ARES owner shall agree to make any ARES available for inspection by the Foundation during normal business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal and State holidays).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="L."> <text>The Foundation may approve no more than one type of ARES for any farm, unless the Foundation approves otherwise based on sufficient justification provided by the applicant. If the Foundation approves more than one type of ARES for any farm, the area restriction of Regulation .03D of this chapter shall not be increased to account for multiple ARES.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Requirements."> <text>A farm owner shall submit a complete request to approve an ARES on a form approved by the Foundation no later than June 30, 2018. Each application submitted to the Foundation shall be complete and shall be signed by all farm owners and include all of the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A written statement providing:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The nature of the proposed ARES;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The name and contact information of the owner or operator of the proposed ARES, if owned or operated by any person or entity other than the farm owner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The basis for determining that the proposed ARES will not interfere significantly with any agricultural use of the farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The method the farm owner or ARES owner will use to satisfy the bond requirement provided in Regulation .12 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The method the farm owner or ARES owner will use to comply with existing soil and water conservation plans and forest stewardship plans while the ARES is being constructed, installed or operated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>An acknowledgment that the farm owner and ARES owner agree to comply with all licensing and regulatory requirements to operate any proposed ARES; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>An acknowledgment that the farm owner and ARES owner agree to allow the Foundation’s representatives to inspect the ARES and any related records during normal business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal and State holidays);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A courses and distances survey outlining the entire easement area, which survey shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The proposed location of the ARES;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The number of acres subject to the easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A brief statement explaining how the proposed ARES satisfies the area restriction provided in Regulation .03D of this</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The proposed location of any new permanent roadways to serve the ARES;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The proposed location of any temporary roadways used to construct the ARES;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The proposed location of any temporary staging areas used to construct the ARES; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The location of, and access to, all dwellings, lot exclusions and farm buildings;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A written statement from the applicable county zoning administrator stating that the proposed ARES is a permitted use, subject to county laws, statutes, or ordinances, unless such laws, statutes, and ordinances are preempted by other law;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A written statement from the applicable local agricultural preservation advisory board providing a favorable recommendation to have the proposed ARES placed on the farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A written statement from the applicable local conservation district certifying that the farm complies with any water quality and soil conservation plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A written statement from the Department certifying that the farm currently complies with all applicable nutrient management requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A written statement from the Department certifying that the farm owner currently complies with all applicable cost share agreements with the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>A written statement from the Foundation certifying that the farm owner currently complies with the applicable easement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>A copy of all existing and proposed facility agreements regarding the ARES, which agreements shall include the following terms and information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The name of the lessee, licensee, manager, and/or operator of the proposed ARES;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An acknowledgment by all parties to a facility agreement that any conflict between the facility agreement and the Foundation easement (as amended by the terms and conditions of the Foundation’s approval to locate an ARES on a farm subject to such Foundation easement) shall be resolved in favor of the Foundation easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An acknowledgment by all parties to a facility agreement that the facility agreement must comply with the terms and conditions of the Foundation’s approval to locate an ARES on a farm; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A requirement that all parties to a facility agreement provide the Foundation with notice of any assignment, renewal, modification or termination of such agreements.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application Evaluation Criteria."> <text>The Foundation shall review each ARES application on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the proposed ARES complies with the requirements of this chapter for approval. In addition to the eligibility factors provided in Regulation .03 of this chapter, the Foundation shall also consider the following factors to determine whether the proposed ARES interferes significantly with any agricultural use of the farm.</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The proposed ARES may not conflict with the terms of the deed of easement applicable to the farm, including but not limited to the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The area approved for any ARES may not be subdivided from the farm, unless such area is part of an agricultural subdivision approved by the Foundation pursuant to COMAR 15.15.12; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The ARES may not have a detrimental impact on drainage, flood control, erosion control, forest stewardship, water conservation or soil conservation on the farm.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The proposed ARES may not negatively impact the agricultural use of a farm beyond the approved ARES area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The proposed ARES shall be located and configured in a manner that maximizes the farm’s agricultural use, meaning that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>It may not be constructed or installed on prime farmland, consisting of United States Department of Agriculture Soil Capability Classes I, II, and III or Woodland Groups 1 and 2 and shall be located along field edges, unless the Foundation approves otherwise based on sufficient justification provided by the applicant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>It shall be located and configured to avoid dividing larger fields into smaller fields and to avoid isolating areas of the farm so that they are no longer viable or efficient for agricultural use, unless the Foundation approves otherwise based on sufficient justification provided by the applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In compliance with Regulation .03E of this chapter, the area approved for an ARES on a farm shall constitute one contiguous area and may not constitute multiple areas on the farm, unless the Foundation approves otherwise based on sufficient justification provided by the applicant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Wind Turbine Restrictions."> <text>An ARES that generates electricity from wind may not be located in an area where the wind turbines could create Doppler radar interference for missions at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. The following map identifies areas of the State, measured from the Reference Point on the Patuxent River Naval Air Station as defined by Agriculture Article, §2-513(c)(1)(III), Annotated Code of Maryland, where wind turbines are restricted by height or otherwise prohibited on a farm. A wind turbine located on a farm shall not exceed the specified height above ground level in the areas specifically described in Agriculture Article, §2-513(c)(5), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Modifications to Foundation Approved ARES."> <text>After the Foundation approves an ARES on a farm, the farm owner may need to modify the terms and conditions of the Foundation’s approval to satisfy federal, State, or local requirements. If the farm owner seeks to modify the terms and conditions of the Foundation’s approval for an ARES, the following process shall apply.</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The farm owner shall apply to the Foundation to request the desired modifications to the approved ARES.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Foundation staff shall review the proposed modifications to the approved ARES and may either approve or deny the proposed modifications administratively. Foundation staff may recommend that the Foundation Board of Trustees consider and decide upon any proposed modification to an approved ARES.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the farm owner disagrees with a staff administrative decision regarding desired modifications to the approved ARES, the farm owner may petition the Foundation Board of Trustees to consider the desired modifications. The Foundation Board of Trustees may grant or deny such petition.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Required Recording Agreement."> <text>If the Foundation approves an ARES on a farm, the farm owner and the Foundation shall execute a recording agreement, to be recorded among the appropriate land records, that states the duties and obligations between the parties, consistent with the requirements of this chapter. The recording agreement shall run with the land and bind all future owners of the farm. An approved ARES may not be constructed on a farm until a recording agreement is recorded in the appropriate land records. The recording agreement shall, at a minimum, include the following terms and conditions:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The construction, installation, and operation of the ARES shall take place only within the area approved by the Foundation and shall be conducted to ensure that the land can readily be returned to active agriculture use after the ARES is removed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Site disturbance, land clearing, grading, top soil removal, subsoil removal, and soil compactions are allowed only if necessary to construct, install, operate, or maintain the ARES;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Topsoil from the approved ARES site may not be removed from the farm but shall be spread or stockpiled elsewhere on the farm as approved by the Foundation and consistent with a farm’s approved conservation plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The use of concrete, asphalt, or other impervious surface material on the farm is prohibited within the approved ARES area except to mount wind turbines, solar panels, and any necessary associated equipment, or to construct and operate an anaerobic digestion facility or any system components;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The use of existing roadways to provide access to the ARES shall be maximized to avoid constructing new onsite roadways;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>New permanent roadways on the farm to serve the ARES shall use gravel or other pervious material to minimize soil disturbance, water runoff, and soil compaction on the farm, and shall meet the following conditions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Such roadways shall be the minimum width necessary to accommodate construction traffic;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Such roadways shall be no greater than 16 feet wide;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If such roadways cross agricultural fields, they shall be located along ridge tops, hedgerows or field boundaries to the maximum extent possible;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Such roadways shall be constructed so they are level with adjacent fields to facilitate crossing by farm equipment to the maximum extent possible; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>To protect agricultural soils from damage, such roadways may not be constructed during wet conditions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Temporary roadways to construct an ARES are permitted, provided that such roadways are prepared with gravel or other pervious material and such roadways are removed once the ARES starts to operate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>When it is not possible to use the approved open space of the ARES area on the farm for agricultural use, the same area shall be maintained with vegetative cover to prevent soil erosion and shall be managed to prevent weeds or other invasive species from growing or spreading to other areas of the farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>During the construction, installation, operation, and maintenance of the ARES, appropriate measures shall be taken to ensure compliance with existing soil and water conservation plans and forest stewardship plans;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>During the construction of the ARES, the following restrictions shall be implemented:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All construction-related vehicle and equipment traffic and parking shall be restricted to an access road or designated area, unless prior written approval has been provided by the Foundation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Crane set-up and breakdown activities must be restricted to designated work areas on the farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The farm owner shall dispose of all wire, bolts, and other unused material related to the ARES to ensure these objects do not mix with any soil; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>All vehicles used to construct, serve or maintain any ARES shall not be serviced or washed on the farm, unless the Foundation approves otherwise; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Any other terms and conditions the Foundation deems appropriate for the recording agreement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Easement Amendment to Authorize an ARES."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Foundation may amend the terms of an easement approved by the Board of Public Works before June 30, 2014 to authorize an ARES on the farm if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Foundation approves an application for an ARES on a farm in accordance with the requirements of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The farm owner agrees to pay the cost of all title work, title insurance premiums, surveys, and documents necessary to complete the easement amendment;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For any easement amendment authorized by this regulation, the Foundation may require other additional terms, conditions, waivers, or restrictions that the Foundation considers appropriate to protect the agricultural purpose and future profitability of the farm.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Assessment of Costs and Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Easement Amendment Costs. The Foundation shall assess and the farm owner shall agree to pay the costs of amending an agricultural land preservation easement approved for purchase by the Board of Public Works prior to June 30, 2014 in a manner that permits the uses allowed by this chapter. The costs shall be determined on a case-by-case basis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Monitoring and Enforcement Fees. If the Foundation approves an ARES for a farm, the Foundation shall assess the farm owner an annual fee to reimburse the Foundation for monitoring and enforcement costs associated with the uses provided by this chapter. This fee is payable to the Foundation on January 1st of each year following the approval of the ARES, and may be modified from time to time. The fee shall continue to be assessed each year until the facility agreement is terminated, the ARES is dismantled and the land reclaimed for agricultural use, as determined by the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Required Lease Payments to the Foundation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If an ARES owner enters into a facility agreement with a farm owner, the ARES owner shall annually pay the Foundation 5 percent of any payment made to the farm owner as a result of a facility agreement. The payments required under this regulation shall be pro-rated for any partial year in which payments are made to the farm owner as a result of a facility agreement. Any facility agreement between an ARES owner and a farm owner must include an express term to require this mandatory payment to the Foundation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Both the ARES owner and the farm owner shall provide the Foundation with a copy of all facility agreements concerning the ARES facility on the farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Both the ARES owner and the farm owner shall notify the Foundation, in writing, of any amendments, modifications, renewals or terminations to facility agreements concerning the ARES on the farm.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Required Removal of ARES and Bond Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If an ARES is scheduled to stop operations, the farm owner and the ARES owner or operator shall notify the Foundation, in writing, no less than 30 days prior to the date when the ARES will cease to operate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the ARES owner enters into a facility agreement with the farm owner, the facility agreement shall require the ARES owner to remove all materials related to an ARES within 180 days of the last operation date of the ARES.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If an ARES is not subject to a facility agreement, the farm owner shall remove all materials related to the ARES within 180 days of the last operation date of the ARES.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The ARES, along with any related structures or equipment, shall be removed in a manner to ensure that the agricultural productivity of the soil is restored to the greatest extent possible, including but not limited to, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Removal shall be done in accordance with an approved conservation plan that addresses soil and water resource concerns;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All facilities, structures and equipment shall be removed from the farm, including underground foundations and cables; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Excavated areas shall be backfilled with clean sub-grade material covered by a layer of topsoil, with the depth of restored topsoil consistent with the depth of topsoil of the surrounding land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the Foundation approves an ARES on a farm, and before construction of the ARES begins, the farm owner or ARES owner shall post a bond or other security in favor of the Foundation to ensure that all materials related to the ARES can be removed from the farm property as required by this regulation. The Foundation, in its sole and absolute discretion, may release the bond or security required by this regulation only after determining that all obligations to remove material related to the ARES</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The amount of the bond or security required by this regulation shall be sufficient to pay all costs to remove from the farm any material related to the ARES;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The amount of the bond or security shall be established by a good faith estimate, prepared by a business qualified to remove the ARES from the farm. The farm owner or ARES owner is responsible for acquiring the good faith estimate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The bond or security shall account for inflation over the term of the facility agreement or the projected life of the ARES if there is no facility agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The bond or security shall be issued by an entity licensed to do business in Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The bond or security shall expressly state that the Foundation may enforce the instrument in Maryland court under Maryland law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Violations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A farm owner who violates any federal, State, or local laws regarding the operation of an ARES is in violation of the easement and is subject to civil penalties under Agriculture Article, §2-519, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A farm owner who violates the Foundation’s approval conditions for an ARES is in violation of the easement and is subject to all legal remedies available to the Foundation to enforce the terms of the easement, including civil penalties under Agriculture Article, §2-519, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504 and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 6, 2016 (43:11 Md. R. 635)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="15" heading="RESERVED" /> <chapter num="16" heading="Guidelines for Granting Overlay Easements and Rights-of-Way"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter establishes the criteria and eligibility standards for the approval of overlay easements and rights-of-way on land subject to an agricultural land preservation easement held by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Definition.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In this regulation, the following term has the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Term Defined. “Conservation values” means natural habitat for native plant and wildlife species, including, but not limited to, forests, riparian forested areas, wetlands, and greenways to buffer the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries from pollution runoff.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After a landowner has sold an agricultural preservation easement to the Foundation, the landowner and subsequent landowners may not grant or permit another to establish an easement, right-of-way, or other servitude in that land without the Foundation’s written permission. The Foundation may permit an easement, right-of-way, or other servitude to be granted in land encumbered by an agricultural preservation easement, subject to conditions it deems necessary to protect and maintain the agricultural integrity of the farm under the following circumstances:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If it is to service a lot released from the preservation easement restrictions under Agriculture Article, §2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If it is to service a lot or land permitted to be withheld from the agricultural preservation easement at the time of sale of the agricultural preservation easement to the Foundation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If it is to service an adjacent farm, provided, however, that its use is restricted to the movement of farm equipment or other items associated with farming;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If it is a forest overlay easement that meets the criteria described in COMAR 15.15.13.01 et seq.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>If the overlay easement documents a use existing at the time the agricultural preservation easement was sold to the Foundation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>If the overlay easement serves telephone, television, gas, or other similar utility lines (but not access) to service the easement property or lots created under §A or B in this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>If the overlay easement enhances a public road or bridge for the public health, safety, or welfare, where a minimal amount of land is required for such project, and the grantee of the proposed overlay easement has condemning authority;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>If the overlay easement is used to install a utility easement for electricity, telephone, cable, oil, gas, or similar utility and the grantee of the proposed overlay easement has condemning authority;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>If the overlay easement is used to create a septic area for an adjoining property which has a failed septic system and there is no other reasonable alternative site or method available;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>If failure to grant the overlay easement would result in significant detrimental impact to the conservation values on an adjacent property as determined by the Foundation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>For any other lawful purpose not listed above, subject to any such further conditions or requirements deemed appropriate by the Foundation’s Board.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Conditions of Approval."> <text>The following conditions apply to any overlay easement approved by the Foundation:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The proposed overlay easement may not prohibit any agricultural operation within the proposed overlay easement area, unless otherwise approved by the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The proposed overlay easement shall have minimal interference on the overall farm operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the proposed overlay easement is a right-of-way, its width shall be the minimum required by law;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>When considering an overlay easement request, the Foundation shall consider the legislative intent as provided in Agriculture Article, §2-501, Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Foundation may require any other conditions it considers appropriate on a case-by-case basis when approving any particular overlay easement proposal, including other conditions required by law or regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application Requirements."> <text>An application to the Foundation for overlay easement approval shall provide the following information:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A location map outlining the entire property, the overlay easement area, and access to the overlay easement area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A draft of the proposed overlay deed of easement (not a generic copy) that shall clearly list all activities that may or may not be permitted;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the Foundation requires, the proposed overlay easement form shall include language that would make the proposed overlay easement subordinate to the agricultural preservation easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the application is for a right-of-way easement, information shall be provided regarding the State’s or county’s minimum width requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A statement of the purpose of the request, including alternatives available to the proposed overlay easement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Confirmation from the county planning and zoning office that the proposed overlay easement complies with local zoning requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A recommendation from the local Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Any other information the Foundation considers necessary to consider the application.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Survey Requirement."> <text>If the Foundation approves the proposed overlay easement, a survey of the overlay easement area, including access, shall be provided to the Foundation for approval before the overlay easement is signed and recorded.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-504 and 2-513, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 4, 2018 (45:11 Md. R. 580)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective July 26, 2021 (48:15 Md. R. 594)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="16" heading="Maryland Horse Industry Board"> <chapter num="01" heading="General Regulations"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The Secretary of Agriculture, under Agriculture Article, Title 2, Subtitles 1 and 7, Annotated Code of Maryland, adopts the following regulations to insure the humane treatment of horses and the safety of horse riders.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In these regulations, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Board” means the Horse Industry Board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Horse Establishment” means an establishment that solicits or offers the public any of the following activities:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A boarding stable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A lesson or rental stable; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A rescue or sanctuary stable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Operator's license” means that license that the Board has issued entitling a person to operate and maintain a horse establishment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Exemptions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Horse Racing and Standardbred Stables.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Horse racing and standardbred stables are exempt from the regulations of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For purposes of this regulation, “horse racing and standardbred stables” means stables or farms where horses are bred, trained, and rested, for purposes relating to either or both of the following types of racing:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The racing of thoroughbreds, whether it be on a flat course or over hurdles; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The racing of standardbreds, whether they be trotters or pacers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Farms Using Horses for Agricultural Purposes.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If farms are using horses for agricultural purposes and not for any of the activities listed in Regulation .02B(2) of this chapter, they are exempt from the regulations of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For purposes of this section, “agricultural purposes” includes the following uses:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Working or cultivating the soil; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Herding or cutting livestock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Operator's License."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Required to Conduct Business. Except as provided under §I of this regulation, a person may not operate or maintain a horse establishment without first obtaining an operator's license in at least one of the three different licensing classifications developed by the Board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Determination by Board. Before the Board may issue an operator's license in a particular class to a person, the Board shall first determine whether that person's horse establishment meets the requirements of that class. The requirements for each licensing class are stated in Regulation .07.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Licensing Classifications. The licensing classifications developed by the Board are based on the three different activities that may be offered at a horse establishment and which, because any one of them is offered, requires that the establishment's operator be licensed. The licensing classifications and their respective activities are the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Boarding stable class, for establishments that solicit or offer to the public to stable horses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Rescue or sanctuary stable class, for establishments that offer to the public to shelter or keep one or more horses for humane purposes with or without compensation and with or without tax-exempt status; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Lesson or rental stable class, for establishments in which one or more horses are offered to the public to be let for hire, to be ridden or driven, either with or without the furnishing of riding or driving instructions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Limitations on Licensee. A person who has been issued an operator's license may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Conduct such business only at the horse establishment shown on his application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Offer only those activities allowed to be performed in the particular class or classes in which the person is licensed to do business.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Who May Apply.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Only a person who either owns or is leasing a horse establishment may apply for an operator's license.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the owner or lessee of a horse establishment is a corporation or other association, the application shall be made in the name of that corporation or other association.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the owner or lessee of the horse establishment is an individual, the application shall be made in that individual's name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Board shall issue the operator's license in the name of the person shown on the application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Application and Renewal Process.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person applying for or renewing an operator’s license shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Use a Board-approved form which is available on request at the Board's principal office located at 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>As established under §C of this regulation, indicate on the application form which class or classes of activities the person intends to do business in for that application year; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Pay the nonrefundable fee of $125.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Board may not issue an operator's license to a person until that person's horse establishment has passed Board inspection as provided in Regulation .05.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Duration of License. After issuance, unless suspended or revoked, an operator's license is effective for a period of 1 year or until the following June 30, whichever occurs first.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Posting Requirements. After issuance, the licensee shall display his operator's license in a conspicuous place on the stable's premises.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>If a person holds a livestock dealer's or livestock market license under Agriculture Article, Title 3, Subtitle 3, and is engaged only in the activity under the licensing classification “Sales”, that person need not obtain an operator's license.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Board Inspection of Horse Establishments."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Inspection Requirement. The Board shall inspect the horse establishments of the following persons:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Those who have applied for an operator's license; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Those who have obtained an operator's license.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Purpose of Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Applicant's Establishment. The Board shall inspect the applicant's establishment to determine whether it meets the requirements provided under Regulation .07 of the class or classes its operator is intending to do business in for that application year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Licensee's Establishment. The Board shall periodically inspect a licensee's establishment to determine whether it still meets the requirements provided under Regulation .07 of the class or classes its operator is licensed to do business in.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Consent to Inspection. Immediately on request by the Board or its inspector, the applicant or licensee shall permit Board inspections of the applicant's or licensee's establishment, only during normal business hours.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Establishment's Failure to Pass Inspection."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Failure of Applicant's Establishment to Pass Initial Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Initial Inspection. The Board may not issue a license to a person to operate a horse establishment if the establishment fails to pass inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Subsequent Inspection. If an establishment fails to pass its initial inspection, the Board may:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Conduct a subsequent inspection after giving the person sufficient time to correct the deficiencies; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Issue a license if it finds during the subsequent inspection that the deficiencies have been corrected.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Failure of Licensee's Establishment to Pass Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If, following an inspection, the Board determines that the licensee's establishment does not meet the requirements of the particular class or classes in which the operator is licensed to do business, the following actions shall be taken:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Board shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Give the licensee written notice of the perceived deficiencies, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Schedule an additional inspection, allowing the licensee a reasonable period of time to complete necessary corrective measures;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The licensee, before the additional inspection is scheduled to occur, shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Complete those measures necessary to correct the perceived deficiencies, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Submit evidence to the Board that satisfactory corrective measures have been completed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If, following the failed first inspection, the licensee does not submit evidence to the Board showing that satisfactory corrective measures have been completed, the Board shall conduct the scheduled additional inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If, following this second inspection, the Board determines that the licensee's establishment is still deficient in those areas in which it had been given written notice, the same actions outlined in §B(1) of this regulation shall be taken.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If, following a third inspection, the Board again determines that the licensee’s establishment is still deficient in the areas in which it had been given written notice, the Board shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Bring formal charges against the licensee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Conduct an administrative hearing in order to determine whether:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The operator's license in a particular class or classes should be suspended or revoked for any of the reasons listed in Agriculture Article, §2-715, Annotated Code of Maryland ; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The operator shall pay an administrative penalty as provided under COMAR 15.16.03.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Licensing Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Compliance with General and Special Requirements. Each person issued an operator's license shall comply with the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>General requirements under §B; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Special requirements under §C for the particular class for which that person is licensed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>General Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Stable and Area In and Around the Stable. The licensed operator shall ensure that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Each horse under his control is provided shelter, and that the shelter is:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Clean,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Dry,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Well-ventilated, but not drafty,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Able to afford horses protection in inclement weather,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Neat and orderly, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vi)"> <text>Sturdy and in good repair;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Adequate measures are taken in and around the stable to:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Prevent excessive manure accumulation, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Control flies and rodents;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>All fences used to confine horses are sturdy and in good repair;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Each stall occupied by a horse:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Is cleaned regularly, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Has a bedding of regularly changed straw, shavings, or other suitable material, sufficient enough to maintain the horse in a clean and dry condition;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>All tools used to clean and maintain the stable and its immediate area are properly stored when not in use.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Other Areas. The licensed operator shall ensure that other areas under the operator's control where horses are confined, exhibited, exercised, or permitted to be ridden, are free of hazards.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Food and Water. The licensed operator shall ensure that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Each horse under his control is provided adequate food, water, and salt;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>These items are provided in suitable containers; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The food is:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Of good quality, free of molds and other contaminates, supplying all the needed nutrients, to maintain a horse depending on its age, reproductive status, level of exercise, and geographic location, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Properly stored so as to maintain its quality.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Health Care. The licensed operator shall ensure that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Each horse under his control receives:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Regular routine care, including but not limited to worming, dental, and foot care, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Immediate attention, care, or treatment if it becomes sick, injured, or lame;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Basic first aid supplies are maintained in good order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A licensed veterinarian examines a horse, if the Board requires an examination; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A horse not be ridden or driven if the caring veterinarian advises against it.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Special Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Boarding Stable Class. A person who has been issued an operator's license in this class shall comply with the general requirements outlined in §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Rescue or Sanctuary Class. A person who has been issued an operator’s license in this class shall comply with the general requirements outlined in §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Lesson or Rental Class. A person who has been issued an operator's license in this class shall, in addition to the general requirements outlined in §A of this regulation, comply with the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>That each horse receives the rest and sustenance it needs each working day, given its age, condition, and the type of activity it performs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>That each horse tacked and awaiting use has its girths loosened, is protected from the weather, and is not tied to the bit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>That a horse may not be used for riding or driving purposes if the horse is unfit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>That tack and related equipment:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Is clean,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Is in sound condition, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Cannot by its adjustment cause physical pain or injury to a horse;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>That hoof picks, brushes, curry combs, and other grooming equipment are readily available, clean, and usable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>That any wagon used is in good condition and that its:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Axles are well greased, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Brakes are operating.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Appeals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may appeal a decision by the Board:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Not to renew an operator's license in a particular class or classes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>To suspend or revoke an operator's license in a particular class or classes; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>To impose a civil penalty as provided under COMAR 15.16.03.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Appeals are governed by the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-707, 2-711, and 2-712, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 4, 1973</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01 ,.02, .06, .08, .10, .11, .12, and .15 amended effective April 7, 1978 (5:7 Md. R. 522)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">(The Board was transferred from the Department of Licensing and Regulation to the Department of Agriculture by Ch. 618 of the Acts of 1980. The transfer was effective on July 1, 1980.)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.17 repealed effective March 19, 1990 (17:5 Md. R. 638)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.08 adopted effective March 19, 1990 (17:5 Md. R. 638)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective April 1, 2013 (40:6 Md. R. 476)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective April 1, 2013 (40:6 Md. R. 476)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04F amended effective February 28, 1994 (21:4 Md. R. 278)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective April 1, 2013 (40:6 Md. R. 476)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective April 1, 2013 (40:6 Md. R. 476)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07B amended effective January 2, 1994 (20:26 Md. R. 2028)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07c amended effective April 1, 2013 (40:6 Md. R. 476)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08A amended effective April 1, 2013 (40:6 Md. R. 476)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Maryland Horse Industry Grant Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>These regulations provide qualifications and guidelines for the allocation of Maryland Horse Industry Board funds for equine-related activities.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of the Maryland Horse Industry Grant Program is to provide funding for equine-related activities. This program will:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Help the Maryland horse industry support research related to equine health and related issues;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Promote the development and use of horses in the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Create public awareness of the value of equine activities as they relate to the preservation of green space and agricultural land; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Develop and disseminate information concerning the equine industry, including the history and tradition of breeding, and the role of horses in recreational activities.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Activity” means economic development, education, marketing, research, or promotion.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Board” means the Maryland Horse Industry Board.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Equine” means relating to the horse family, and includes horses, mules, donkeys, and ponies.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Who May Apply."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board shall only provide financial assistance to an individual, group, association, organization, or institution for an equine-related activity that meets the program's objectives, as established in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Applicants shall demonstrate knowledge, experience, and the capacity of initiating and implementing all aspects of the proposed project.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An application shall contain the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The project title;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicant's name, address, and telephone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A brief biography and qualifications of the project leader;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Brief biographies and qualifications of additional personnel who will work on the project, if applicable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The amount of the grant requested;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A project description, which shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The project's objective;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A general summary of the proposed project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The value of the project to Maryland's horse industry;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The proposed start date of the project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The schedule for completion of the project; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Any additional information the applicant wants the Board to consider during its review of the proposed project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Only an original application, signed by the project leader and postmarked 30 days before the Board's announced allocation meeting shall be accepted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An applicant shall submit the application to the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Maryland Horse Industry Board, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland 21401.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>An application, or corrections to an application, submitted through electronic means may not be accepted.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Board Evaluation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board shall decide whether to approve a qualified applicant's application for funding based upon the following criteria of the proposed activity:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Value to the industry;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Degree of industry promotion;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Size and scope of activity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Financial need; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Quality of the written presentation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Board shall disapprove an application for any of the following reasons:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The application is incomplete or does not comply with these regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Funds are not available; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An applicant who is subject to stable licensing under COMAR 15.16.01 fails to possess a current license upon application submission.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An application disapproved due to lack of funds may be held for consideration by the Board for the next fund cycle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Board shall notify the applicant if an application is approved or disapproved within 30 days of the completion of the application review process. If the application is approved, the applicant shall be notified of the amount of the State grant for the project.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Funding Conditions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon approval of an application by the Board, the applicant shall execute an agreement that, among other things, shall require the applicant to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Establish and operate the project according to the project description;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Bind any successor in title for the life of the project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintain records as required by the Board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Allow the Board access to monitor the project to assure that the project is operated in accordance with this agreement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Use the funds received from the Board for only those activities described in the project application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An applicant who is subject to stable licensing under COMAR 15.16.01 shall maintain a current stable license.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Grant funds shall be distributed as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon execution of the agreement, the Board shall award the funds to the applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Upon the project's completion, the applicant shall submit a final report which shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An evaluation of the degree to which the project's objectives were met, as provided in Regulation .05A(6) of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An accounting of the disbursement of all funds, with an itemized list of costs associated with the project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The date and the signature of the applicant certifying that the information presented is true and correct to the best of that individual's knowledge.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The applicant's final report is subject to an audit by the Board.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Noncompliance."> <text>If a person fails to establish or operate a project in accordance with any agreement executed with the Board, that person shall be liable for the full amount of State funds paid for any project that was not implemented or properly executed. If a person violates any regulation contained in this chapter, the Board may deny any current or future fund allocations.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §2-707, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.08 adopted as an emergency provision effective December 29, 2000 (28:2 Md. R. 97); adopted permanently effective April 2, 2001 (28:6 Md. R. 622)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06B amended effective March 29, 2004 (31:6 Md. R. 510)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective March 29, 2004 (31:6 Md. R. 510)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Administrative Penalty Standards"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter determines the administrative penalty amount for any person who operates an unlicensed horse establishment or has violated any provision of Agriculture Article, §2-715, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Terms Defined. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Licensee” means a person who is licensed to operate a Horse Establishment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Member of the Board” means a member of the Horse Industry Board including a Board inspector.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>After a hearing, or an opportunity for a hearing, the Board may impose a penalty on:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person who operates or maintains a horse establishment without a license; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A licensee who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Refuses to allow a member of the Board to enter and inspect the licensed premises;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Obstructs any member of the Board in the performance of that person’s duties;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Fails to provide suitable food, water, and shelter for a horse under control of the licensee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Maintains an unsanitary or unfit horse establishment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Fails to provide suitable saddles, bridles, harnesses, or other tack or equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Allows unfit horses to be used for riding or driving purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Commits an act of cruelty as defined in Criminal Law Article, § 10-601, Annotated Code of Maryland, or allows the commission of an act of cruelty by any other person with relation to any horse under control of the licensee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Does any other act that, in the opinion of the Board, taking into consideration the welfare of the horses under the control of the licensee, shows that the licensee is unfit to operate a horse establishment; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Fails to comply with the rules and regulations of the Board after receiving a license.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Violations for the Purpose of Determining Penalties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §B of this regulation, the Board may impose an administrative penalty up to $2,000 for each violation of this chapter taking into consideration the gravity of the offense as it relates to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The risk of injury to member of the public who may let for hire, to be ridden or driven, a horse at that establishment; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The fitness or welfare of a horse under the control of the licensee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For violations of Regulation .02B(1) and B(2)(a)—(b) of this chapter, the Board may impose:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For a first violation, a penalty of not less than $500 or more than $1,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the second violation, a penalty of not less than $1,000 or more than $1,500; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For the third and any subsequent violation, a penalty of not less than $1,500 or more than $2,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Appeal."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any person subject to the Board’s jurisdiction may appeal, according to Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Board's decision to impose an administrative penalty.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An operator shall be notified of this right to appeal.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Penalty Payment."> <text>Unless a person appeals, the amount of a penalty shall be paid promptly to the Board.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-701, 2-710, and 2-718, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November 16, 2009 (36:23 Md. R. 1818)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective April 1, 2013 (40:6 Md. R. 476)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="17" heading="Certification of Fruit"> <chapter num="01" heading="Controlled Atmosphere Storage of Fruit"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In these regulations, the following terms have the meanings indicated:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, association, firm, or other business entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“MD-CA” or “Maryland Controlled Atmosphere Storage” is a mark or grade of quality certified by the Department which indicates that fresh fruit has been stored in a facility where atmospheric gasses have been controlled in volume and in temperature for the purpose of preserving the condition and maturity of fruit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Facility” means a storage warehouse approved by the Department for storing of MD-CA certified fruit.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Application for “MD-CA” Certification."> <text>Upon request, the Secretary may mark fruit as “MD-CA” certified. Requests for certification shall be made on a form as provided by the Department. Before certification, the Department shall inspect and approve each storage facility to insure its fitness to store “MD-CA” fruit. An applicant shall agree to pay to the Department a reasonable fee for any service as provided in this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Prohibition."> <text>Unless approved by the Secretary, a person may not mark a container as “MD-CA” in any manner that indicates that it conforms to the grade or quality standards as provided in this chapter.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Standards for “MD-CA” Certified Fruits."> <text>The Secretary shall certify and mark fruit as “MD-CA” certified if it conforms to all of the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Fruit shall be refrigerated immediately after harvesting and shall be sealed in a controlled atmosphere storage facility within 30 days after harvesting.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The oxygen content of a facility shall be reduced to 5 percent of the facility's volume within 20 cumulative calendar days after the facility's initial sealing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The maximum amount of oxygen retained in a sealed “MD-CA” facility may not exceed 5 percent by volume.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>While fruit is stored in a facility, the temperature shall be maintained within a range normal for each variety without significant deviation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Fruit shall be stored for a minimum of 90 days in a facility, except 60 days for Jonathan variety apples. However, fruit may not be stored for more than 10 months or later than August 1 following harvest. All fruit shall be sealed in a facility with not more than 5 percent oxygen content.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Storage Facilities."> <text>The Secretary shall approve each facility for the storage of fruit. Upon approval, the Secretary shall assign a facility number which shall be preceded by the letters “MD-CA”. The “MD-CA” number and the facility number shall be in letters and figures not less than 1/4 inch high and shall appear on all master cartons or shipping containers.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Records and Reports."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Records.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person whose fruit is certified “MD-CA” shall keep accurate daily records on forms approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Records shall be made available to the Department upon request and shall be kept for 1 year from harvest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Records shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Full name and address of applicant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Number and storage capacity of each facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Date of sealing of the facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Date of opening of the facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A daily record of the date and time of testing of the percent of carbon dioxide, oxygen, relative humidity, and the temperature of a facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The quantity within the facility by variety and lot identification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>The dates of any entry or resealing of the CA facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 30 days after a facility is filled with fruit and sealed, a person whose fruit is to be certified shall submit a written report to the Secretary showing the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The quantity and lot or sub-lot identity by variety of fruit held; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The date of sealing of the facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If any person removes any fruit before the minimum holding period or final opening as required by this subtitle, the person whose fruit is certified shall notify the Secretary in writing within 3 days from removal stating the quantity and identity of fruit removed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Certification Refusal."> <text>The secretary may refuse to grade or to mark a person's fruit as “MD-CA” for failing to comply with the requirements of this chapter. An applicant who is denied “MD-CA” may request a hearing before the Secretary.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article §§10-602 and 10-703, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 12, 1981 (8:20 Md. R. 1637)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="18" heading="State Chemist"> <chapter num="01" heading="Definitions of Identity for Commercial Fertilizer"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These definitions of identity apply to any commercial fertilizer offered or sold in Maryland. They have been adopted giving due regard to commonly accepted definitions issued by the Association of American Plant Food Control Officials, Inc. A commercial fertilizer which is represented to contain fertilizer material, such as provided in these regulations, may be held misbranded if it does not conform to these terms or identity standards.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Acid-forming fertilizer” means a fertilizer capable of increasing the residual acidity of soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Chelate” means the type of compound or chemical union in which a central metal (cation or anion) is joined to a chelating agent in the same molecule by two or more bonds. These linkages result in the formation of one or more heterocyclic rings in which the metal is part of the ring.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Chelated plant nutrients” means compounds of metallic secondary and micro plant nutrients with organic chelating agents which have the property of being available under pH conditions in which the nutrients normally form insoluble compounds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Chelating agent (sequestering agent)” means a compound having two or more sites of attachment to a metal (cation or anion) to form a chelate. Examples are EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), NTA (nitrilotriacetic acid), polyphosphoric acid, proteins and polyflavanoids.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Coated slow release fertilizer” means a fertilizer containing sources of water soluble nutrients, whose release is controlled by a coating applied to the fertilizer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Filler” means a substance added to fertilizer materials to provide bulk, prevent caking, or serve some purpose other than providing essential plant nutrients.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Granular fertilizer” means a fertilizer in which 95 percent or more of the product is retained on a series of sieves within the range of 8 mesh (2.38 mm. opening) to 20 mesh (0.841 mm. opening), and in which the largest particle passes through a sieve having an opening not larger than four times that of the sieve which would retain 95 percent or more of the product.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Liquid fertilizer” means a fluid in which plant nutrients are in a true solution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Lot” means, for purposes of obtaining an official sample, an identifiable quantity of commercial fertilizer that can be sampled, up to and including a freight car load or 50 tons maximum, or that amount contained in a single vehicle, or that amount delivered under a single invoice.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Manipulation” means the processing or treating of a substance in any manner, including drying to a moisture content of less than 30 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Natural organic fertilizer” means a fertilizer derived from either plant or animal products containing one or more elements (other than carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen) which are essential for plant growth. These materials may be subjected to biological degradation processes under normal conditions of aging, rainfall, sun-curing, air drying, composting, rotting, enzymatic, or anaerobic or aerobic bacterial action, or any combination of these. These materials may not be mixed with synthetic materials, or changed in any physical or chemical manner from their initial state except by physical manipulation such as drying, cooking, chopping, grinding, shredding or pelleting.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Nitrophosphate” means a product obtained by acidulation of phosphate rock with nitric acid. The complex mixture of nitrates and phosphate thus obtained does not contain nitrate nitrogen and phosphorus in the same molecule. The process is subject to modification designed to remove the hygroscopic calcium nitrate formed. These modifications include ammoniation, physical separation, co-acidulation with sulfuric or phosphoric acids, or subsequent treatment with carbon dioxide.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Nonacid-forming fertilizer” means a fertilizer not capable of increasing the residual acidity of the soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Organic fertilizer” means a material containing carbon and one or more elements other than hydrogen and oxygen essential for plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Overall index value” means the value obtained from the calculation: (Commercial Value Found) 100/(Commercial Value Guaranteed) using assigned values for N, APA, and soluble K2O, such as $3, $2, and $1 per unit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Pelletized fertilizer” means a product, uniform in size and usually of globular shape, containing one or more nutrients produced by one of several methods including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Solidification of a melt while falling through a counter-current stream of air;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Dried layers of slurry applied to recycling particles;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Compaction;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Extrusion;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Granulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Primary nutrients” means nutrients that include the following plant food:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Nitrogen (N);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Available phosphoric acid (P2O5); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Potash (K2O).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Secondary and micro plant nutrients” means nutrients other than the primary nutrients that are essential for the normal growth of plants and that may need to be added to the growth medium. Secondary plant nutrients shall include boron, chlorine, cobalt, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, sodium, and zinc.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Slurry fertilizer” means a fluid mixture containing dissolved and undissolved plant nutrient materials which requires continuous mechanical agitation to assure homogeneity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Suspension fertilizer” means a fluid containing dissolved and undissolved plant nutrients. The suspension of the undissolved plant nutrients may be inherent with the materials or produced with the aid of a suspending agent of non-fertilizer properties. Mechanical agitation may be necessary in some cases to facilitate uniform suspension of undissolved plant nutrients.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Synthetic” means any substance generated from another material or materials by means of a chemical reaction.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Unit” means 20 pounds of plant food or 1 percent of a ton.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Manganese Products.(Mn).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Manganese sulfate” means, when applied to an ingredient of a mixed fertilizer, anhydrous manganese sulfate (MnSO4).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Nitrogen Products (N).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Acidulated fish tankage, acidulated fish scrap” means the rendered product derived from fish and treated with sulfuric acid.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Activated sewage products” means those products made from sewage freed from grit and coarse solids and aerated after being inoculated with microorganisms. The resulting flocculated organic matter is withdrawn from the tanks, filtered with or without the aid of coagulants, dried, ground, and screened.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Ammoniated superphosphate” means a product obtained when superphosphate is treated with ammonia or with solutions which contain ammonia or other compounds of nitrogen. The guaranteed percentages of nitrogen and of available phosphoric acid shall be stated as part of the name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Ammonium nitrate” means a substance, chiefly the ammonium salt of nitric acid. It shall contain not less than 33 percent of nitrogen, 1/2 of which is in the ammonium form and 1/2 in the nitrate form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Ammonium sulfate nitrate” means a double salt of ammonium sulfate and ammonium nitrate which are present in equal molecular proportions. It shall contain not less than 26 percent nitrogen, 1/4 of which is in nitrate form and 3/4 in the ammonium form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Bat guano” means partially decomposed bat manure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Calcium nitrate” means a substance, chiefly the calcium salt of nitric acid. It shall contain not less than 15 percent nitrate nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Crude, inert, or slow-acting nitrogenous materials” means unprocessed organic substances relatively high in nitrogen but having a very low value as plant food and showing a low activity by both the alkaline and neutral permanganate methods, below 50 percent and 80 percent respectively.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Cyanamid” means a commercial product consisting principally of calcium cyanamid (CaNCN) and carbon and it shall contain not less than 19.5 percent nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Dried blood” means collected blood of slaughtered animals, dried and ground, and containing not less than 12 percent nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Dried, pulverized, shredded, composted, or otherwise processed, manipulated, or treated animal manures” means a manure containing no more organic bedding materials, or other materials, than is necessary to follow good dairy barn, poultry house, etc., practice in order to maintain proper sanitary conditions, to conserve plant food elements in excreta, and to absorb adequately the liquid portion.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Fish tankage, fish scrap, dry ground fish, fish meal fertilizer grade” means the dried ground product derived from rendered or unrendered fish.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Garbage tankage” means the rendered, dried, and ground product from waste household food products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Hoof and horn meal” means processed dried, ground hoofs and horns.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Isobutylene Diurea (IBDU)” means a condensation product of isobutyraldehyde and urea having a minimum total nitrogen content of 31 percent. It is a source of slowly available nitrogen by virtue of particle size, solubility decreasing with increase in partical size. Material conforming to the description of a “granular fertilizer” will have 90 percent of its nitrogen content in the water-insoluble form before grinding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Nitrate of potash (potassium nitrate)” means a substance, chiefly the potassium salt of nitric acid. It shall contain not less than 12 percent of nitrogen and 44 percent of potash.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Nitrate of soda (sodium nitrate)” means a substance, chiefly the sodium salt of nitric acid. It shall contain not less than 16 percent nitrate nitrogen and 26 percent sodium.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Nitrate of soda and potash (sodium and potassium nitrate)” means a substance, chiefly the sodium and potassium salts of nitric acid. It shall contain not less that 15 percent of nitrate nitrogen, 1 percent of potash, and 18 percent of sodium.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Peat” means partly decayed vegetable matter of natural occurrence. It is chiefly composed of organic matter that contains some nitrogen of low activity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Process tankage” means a product made under steam pressure from crude inert nitrogenous materials, with or without the use of acids, for the purpose of increasing the activity of nitrogen. These products shall be called process tankage with or without further qualification. The water-insoluble nitrogen in these products shall test at least 50 percent active by the alkaline, or 80 percent by the neutral permanganate method.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Sheep manure-wool waste” means the by-product from wool-carding establishments consisting chiefly of sheep manure, seeds, and wool fiber.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Sulfur Coated Urea (SCU)” means a coated slow release fertilizer consisting of urea particles coated with sulfur. The product is usually further coated with a sealant (2 percent to 3 percent of total weight) and a conditioner (2 percent to 3 percent of total weight). It typically contains about 30 percent to 40 percent nitrogen and about 10 percent to 30 percent sulfur.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Sulfate of ammonia (ammonium sulfate)” means a substance, chiefly the ammonium salt of sulfuric acid. It shall contain not less than 20.5 percent of nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Tankage (without qualification)” means the rendered, dried, ground by-product, largely meat and bone from animals (slaughtered or that have died otherwise).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Urea” means the commercial synthetic acid amide of carbonic acid which contains not less than 45 percent nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>“Urea-form fertilizer materials” means reaction products of urea and formaldehyde containing at least 35 percent nitrogen largely in insoluble but slowly available form. The water-insoluble content shall be at least 60 percent of the total nitrogen. The water-insoluble nitrogen in these products shall have an activity of not less than 40 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>“Urea-formaldehyde products” means a product containing not less than 35 percent total nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Phosphorus Products (P).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Acidulated bone” means a ground bone or bone meal that has been treated with sulfuric acid.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Ammoniated superphosphate” means a product obtained when superphosphate is treated with ammonia or with solutions which contain ammonia and other compounds of nitrogen. The guaranteed percentages of nitrogen and of available phosphoric acid shall be stated as part of the name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Ammonium phosphate (fertilizer grade)” means a product obtained when phosphoric acid is treated with ammonia, and consists principally of monoammonium phosphate or a mixture of these two salts. The guaranteed percentage of nitrogen and of available phosphoric acid shall be stated as part of the name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Ammonium phosphate-sulfate” (fertilizer grade) means a product obtained when a mixture of phosphoric acid and sulfuric acid is treated with ammonia. It consists principally of a mixture of ammonium phosphate and ammonium sulfate. The guaranteed percentages of nitrogen and of available phosphoric acid shall be stated as a part of the name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Available phosphoric acid” means the sum of the water-soluble and the citrate-soluble phosphoric acid.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Basic lime phosphate (lime-based superphosphate)” means a superphosphate to which liming materials have been added in a quantity at least 6 percent calcium carbonate equivalent in excess of the quantity required to convert all water-insoluble phosphate to the citrate-soluble form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Basic phosphate slag” means a by-product obtained in the manufacture of steel from phosphatic iron ores. The product shall contain no admixture of materials other than those resulting from the original process of manufacture. It shall contain not less than 12 percent of total phosphoric acid, of which at least 80 percent shall be available phosphoric acid. It shall be ground so that not less than 70 percent of the material passes through a U.S. Standard No. 100 sieve and 90 percent passes through a U.S. Standard No. 50 sieve. Any basic phosphoric slag not conforming to this definition shall be designated low phosphate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Calcined phosphate” means a phosphate rock which has been heated, with or without one or more catalysts or reagents, sufficient to volatize and remove most or all organic, carbonate, fluoride, and other impurities, or thermally altered to more available phosphate compounds, or both, depending on the process. A significant portion of the phosphorus is citrate soluble and the percentage shall be stated as part of the brand name. Include are products known as fused tricalcium phosphate, defluorinated phosphate, rhenania phosphate, and various trade names.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Calcium metaphosphate” means a vitreous product substantially free from crystalline phosphates, resulting from the treatment of phosphate rock with gaseous phosphorus pentoxide at high temperatures. The guaranteed percentage of available phosphoric acid shall be stated as part of the name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Citrate-soluble phosphoric acid” means that part of the total phosphoric acid in a fertilizer that is insoluble in water but soluble in a solution of citrate of ammonia.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Dicalcium phosphate” means a manufactured product consisting chiefly of dicalcic salt of phosphoric acid.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Ground raw bone” means ground animal bones that have not previously been steamed under pressure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Ground steamed bone” means ground animal bones that have been previously steamed under pressure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Phosphate rock” means a natural rock containing one or more calcium phosphate minerals of sufficient purity and quantity to permit its use, either directly or after concentration, in the manufacture of commercial products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Phosphoric acid” means phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Polyphosphates” means a general term pertaining to salts of any of a series of polyphosphoric acids, whose molecular structure contain two or more phosphorus atoms linked by oxygen. Solutions may contain several species such as orthophosphates, pyrophosphates, and polyphosphates containing three or more phosphorus atoms, commonly known as tripolyphosphates or tetrapolyphosphates and water.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Precipitated phosphate” means a product consisting mainly of dicalcium phosphate obtained by neutralizing with calcium hydroxide the acid solution of either phosphate rock or processed bone.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Soft phosphate with colloidal clay” means a very finely divided low-analysis by-product from mining Florida rock phosphate by a hydraulic process in which the colloidal materials settle at points in artificial ponds and basins farthest from the washer, and are later removed after the natural evaporation of the water.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Superphosphate” means a product obtained when rock phosphate is treated with either sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, or a mixture of those acids. The guaranteed percentage of available phosphoric acid shall be stated as a part of the name.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Superphosphoric acid” means the acid form of polyphosphates, consisting of a mixture of orthophosphoric and polyphosphoric acids. Species distribution varies with concentration, typically 68 percent to 83 percent P2O5.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Potassium Products (K).</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Double sulfate of potash and magnesia (Langbeinite)” means a commercial product containing not less than 21 percent of soluble potash (K2O), or less than 53 percent of sulfate of magnesia and not more than 2.5 percent of chlorine.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Kainit” means a potash salt containing potassium and sodium chlorides and sometimes sulfate of magnesia with not less than 12 percent of soluble potash (K2O).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Mine run potash salts” means potash salts containing a high percentage of chloride and from 20 percent to 30 percent of soluble potash (K2O).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Muriate of potash (commercial potassium chloride)” means a potash salt containing 48 percent to 62 percent of soluble potash (K2O) chiefly as chloride.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Nitrate of potash (potassium nitrate)” means a substance, chiefly the potassium salt of nitric acid. It shall contain not less than 12 percent of nitrogen and 44 percent of soluble potash.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Nitrate of soda and potash (sodium and potassium nitrate)” means a substance, chiefly the sodium and potassium salts of nitric acid. It shall contain not less than 15 percent of nitrate nitrogen, 10 percent of soluble potash, and 18 percent of sodium.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Potash” means potassium oxide (K2O).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Soluble potash” means that portion of the potash contained in fertilizer or fertilizer materials which is soluble in an aqueous ammoniacal solution of 0.8 percent ammonium oxalate, after boiling in a 1.14 percent solution of ammonium oxalate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Sulfate of potash (commercial potassium sulfate)” means a potash salt containing not less than 48 percent of soluble potash (K2O) chiefly as sulfate, and not more than 2.5 percent of chlorine.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Sulfate of potash-magnesia” means a potash salt containing not less than 25 percent soluble potash (K2O), or less than 25 percent of sulfate of magnesia, and not more than 2.5 percent of chlorine.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §6-203, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 24, 1982 (9:10 Md. R. 1023)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Registration and Labeling of Pesticides" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 27, 1988 (15:13 Md. R. 1558)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter repealed effective August 2, 2004 (31:15 Md. R. 1186)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Commercial Fertilizer and Soil Conditioner"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural land” means land used for the production of crops or for raising livestock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Brand” means the term, design, trademark, or other specific designation under which a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner is distributed in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Commercial Fertilizer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Commercial fertilizer” means any substance containing a recognized plant nutrient used for its plant nutrient content and designed for use or claimed to have value in promoting plant growth, except unmanipulated animal and vegetable manure, marl, lime, wood ashes, or gypsum.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Commercial fertilizer” includes a fertilizer-pesticide or a specialty fertilizer as defined by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The definitions of identity for a commercial fertilizer are provided in COMAR 15.18.01.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Custom-mix” means any commercial fertilizer mixed on specific request of a purchaser according to a formula furnished by the purchaser.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Distribute” means to import, manufacture, produce, compound, mix, blend, barter, sell, offer for sale, consign, furnish, provide, or otherwise supply a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner as part of a commercial enterprise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Grade” means the percentage of total nitrogen (N), available phosphoric acid or phosphate (P2O5), and soluble potash (K2O) stated in whole numbers in the same terms, order, and percentages as in the “guaranteed analysis”. Any “specialty fertilizer” or “mixed-to-order fertilizer” guarantee may be stated in decimal fractions of whole numbers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Guaranteed analysis” means the minimum percentage of plant nutrients claimed as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), soluble potash (K2O);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For unacidulated mineral phosphatic materials and basic slag, both total and available phosphate and the degree of fineness;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For bone, tankage, and other organic phosphatic materials, total phosphate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Additional plant nutrients, when claimed, are to be expressed in elemental form; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Potential basicity or acidity may be expressed in terms of calcium carbonate equivalent in multiples of 100 pounds per ton.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Industrial sludge” means the accumulated semiliquid suspension, settled, or dried residue of solids deposited as a by-product of an industrial, agricultural, or manufacturing process that is claimed to have value in promoting plant growth, or in producing a physical or chemical change in the soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Label” means the display of all written, printed, or graphic matter on the immediate container or a statement accompanying a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Labeling” means all written, printed, or graphic matter on or accompanying any commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner, or the contents of any advertisement, brochure, poster, or television or radio announcement used in promoting the sale of a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Lot” means a definite quantity of commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner, identified by name, grade, or code designation as certified by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Microorganism” means organisms of microscopic size intended for use as a nitrogen-fixation agent which are claimed to have value in promoting plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Origin” means the original physical source of the product or nutrient.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Percent” or “percentage” means percentage by weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Person” includes the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Primary plant nutrient” means a plant food that is essential for normal plant growth and includes nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), and potash (K2O).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Registrant” means any person who registers a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner, pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>Secondary and Micro Plant Nutrients.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Secondary and micro plant nutrients” means nutrients, other than the primary nutrients, that are essential for normal growth of plants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Secondary plant nutrients” include calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>“Micronutrients” include boron (B), chlorine (Cl), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), sodium (Na), and zinc (Zn).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>Soil Conditioner.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Soil conditioner” means any substance or mixture of substances, except a commercial fertilizer, unmanipulated animal and vegetable manures, agricultural liming material, or gypsum, intended for sale, offered for sale, or sold for:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Manurial, soil enriching, or soil corrective purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Promoting or stimulating the growth of plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Increasing the productivity of plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Improving the quality of crops; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Producing any chemical or physical change in the soil.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Soil conditioner” includes, but is not limited to, microorganisms and materials such as compost, peat, vermiculite, perlite, or digestate produced by anaerobic digestion that are incorporated into the soil.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Specialty fertilizer” means a commercial fertilizer distributed primarily for nonfarm use, such as home garden, lawn, shrubbery, flowers, golf course, municipal park, cemetery, greenhouse, or nursery, and may include a fertilizer used for any research or experimental purpose.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Registration."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Registration.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided by this chapter, a person shall register with the Department each brand and grade of commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner before it is distributed in this State. A person who registers any product that is distributed as a combination product shall comply with the applicable regulatory requirements in this chapter for each product contained in the combination product. Examples of combination products regulated by the Secretary are fertilizer-lime and fertilizer-pesticide products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the product label has not been altered or changed, a distributor is not required to register any brand or grade of commercial fertilizer or brand of soil conditioner which has been registered under this chapter by another person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An applicant for registration shall submit to the Department the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A completed registration application provided by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A copy of the product label and, if requested by the Secretary, other labeling describing the product; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The registration fee of:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>$15 for each brand and grade registered in bulk or in a package of more than 10 pounds, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>$30 for each brand and grade registered in a package of 10 pounds or less.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The following are exempt from registration under this chapter:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Unmanipulated animal and vegetable manure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Custom-mix fertilizer product; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Fertilizer product whose nutrient content is derived solely from sewage sludge, as regulated by COMAR 26.04.06.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Registration Renewal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>By February 1 of each year, a registrant shall renew the registration for each brand and grade of commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner distributed in this State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An applicant for registration renewal shall submit to the Department the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A completed registration renewal application on a form provided by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A copy of the product label and any other printed materials describing the product, if:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The label has been altered or changed since the product label was last approved, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>5 years have passed since the product label was last submitted to the Department; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The registration fee of:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>$15 for each brand and grade registered in bulk or in a package of more than 10 pounds, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>$30 for each brand and grade registered in a package of 10 pounds or less.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Registration of Commercial Fertilizer.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A registrant of a commercial fertilizer, except a custom-mix fertilizer, shall provide the Department with the following information on a form provided by the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Package size and net weight;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Brand and grade under which the commercial fertilizer is distributed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Guaranteed analysis showing the minimum percentage of plant nutrients claimed, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Total nitrogen (N) ___ percent,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Available phosphate (P2O5) ____ percent,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Soluble potash (K2O) ____ percent, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Other plant nutrients ____ percent;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Manufacturer's or registrant's telephone number and principal mailing address, including the street, city, state, and zip code; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Any other information the department requires.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Registration of Fertilizer-Pesticide. A registrant of a fertilizer-pesticide shall provide the Department with the following information on a form provided by the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Package size and net weight;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Brand and grade under which the fertilizer-pesticide is distributed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Guaranteed analysis showing the minimum percentage of plant nutrients claimed, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Total nitrogen (N) ____ percent,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Available phosphate (P2O5) ____ percent,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Soluble potash (K2O) ____ percent, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Other plant nutrients ____ percent;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Pesticide active ingredient or ingredients, and guarantees;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>U.S. Environmental Protection Agency pesticide product registration number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Manufacturer's or registrant's telephone number and principal mailing address, including the street address, city, state, and zip code; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Any other information the Department requires.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Registration of Soil Conditioner.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A registrant of a soil conditioner shall provide the Department with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Net weight or other measure approved by the Secretary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Brand;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Accurate statement of the composition of the soil conditioner, and its intended use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Manufacturer's or registrant's telephone number and principal mailing address, including the street address, city, state, and zip code; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Any other information the Department requires.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Registration of Microorganism. An applicant for registration of a soil conditioner containing a microorganism intended for use as a nitrogen-fixation agent shall provide the Department with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Brand;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Guaranteed analysis showing the type of bacteria, including genus and species, and the minimum number of viable bacteria per gram of product;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Manufacturer's or registrant's telephone number and principal mailing address, including the street address, city, state, and zip code; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any other information the Department requires.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Registration of Industrial Sludge as a Fertilizer or Soil Conditioner.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Unless a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner that contains industrial sludge is first registered as required by this chapter, a person may not distribute it in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Industrial Sludge Testing.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A registrant shall provide the Department with test results required by the Department to determine whether the industrial sludge qualifies as a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner before it is distributed in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A registrant shall submit test results to the Department every 6 months after registration, or at intervals required by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Registration Prohibited. A person may not register with the Secretary as a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner any product containing industrial sludge from a pulp and paper mill that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Uses chlorine or chlorine derivative processes; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Contains a controlled hazardous substance as defined by COMAR 26.13.01.03.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Statement of Origin. In addition to the other requirements of this chapter, an applicant for registration for a product that contains industrial sludge shall submit to the Secretary a product label, invoice, or statement showing the origin of the sludge.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Records. A person distributing an industrial sludge registered as a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner shall maintain distribution records for 2 years after initial registration.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Registration of Guarantees of Phosphates.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An applicant for registration of a commercial fertilizer that contains unacidulated mineral phosphate materials or basic slag, or both, may guarantee the total phosphate and the available phosphate, or the degree of fineness, or both.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An applicant for registration of a commercial fertilizer containing bone, tankage, or other organic phosphatic materials may guarantee the total phosphate (P2O5).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Registration of Guarantees other than Nitrogen, Phosphate, and Potash.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary may require a guarantee of nutrients, if claimed by a registrant, other than nitrogen, phosphate, or potash, to be expressed in elemental form for a commercial fertilizer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicant shall state on the application the sources of nutrients other than nitrogen, phosphate, and potash.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Identification of Ingredients. If required by the Secretary, an applicant shall list on the application the common or usual English name of all ingredients used in the manufacturing or blending of a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Registration of Secondary Plant Nutrient or Micronutrient.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An applicant for registration of a commercial fertilizer shall state on the registration form, immediately following the guarantees for primary plant nutrients, the guarantee for any secondary plant nutrient or micronutrient claimed in any manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any secondary plant nutrient or micronutrient claimed by the registrant shall be guaranteed:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>On an elemental basis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In the following order and at or above the minimum percentages accepted for registration, as listed in the following table:</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Uniform Guarantees. The plant nutrient content of each brand and grade of commercial fertilizer registered, the composition of each brand of soil conditioner registered, and the bacterial count of each brand of microorganism registered shall remain uniform for the period of registration.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Label."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Commercial Fertilizer Label. Each brand and grade of commercial fertilizer, except a custom-mix fertilizer, distributed in the State shall be accompanied by a conspicuous and legible label, or by a printed statement if the fertilizer is distributed in bulk, having the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Net weight;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Brand and grade under which the commercial fertilizer is distributed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Guaranteed analysis showing the minimum percentage of every plant nutrient claimed to be contained in the fertilizer, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Total nitrogen (N) __ percent,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Available phosphate (P2O5) __ percent,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Soluble potash (K2O) __ percent;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Guarantees of secondary plant nutrients or micronutrients as provided in Regulation .02I of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any other guarantee as provided in Regulation .02G—J of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Manufacturer's or registrant's name and address, including street address, city, state, and zip code; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Lot number, if available.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Soil Conditioner Label. Each brand and grade of soil conditioner distributed in the State shall be accompanied by a conspicuous and legible label, or by a printed statement if the soil conditioner is distributed in bulk, having the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Net content;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Brand;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Composition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other guarantee as provided in Regulation .02G—J of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Manufacturer's or registrant's name and address, including street address, city, state, and zip code.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Microorganism Label. Each brand and grade of microorganism registered as a soil conditioner or commercial fertilizer shall be accompanied by a legible label having the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Brand;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Guaranteed analysis showing the type of bacteria, including genus and species, and the minimum number of viable bacteria per gram of product;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Guarantee of a secondary plant nutrient as provided in Regulation .02J of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other guarantees provided in Regulation .02H and I of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Manufacturer's or registrant's name and address, including street address, city, state, and zip code; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Lot number, if available.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Fertilizer-Pesticide Label. Each brand and grade of fertilizer-pesticide distributed as a commercial fertilizer in the State shall be accompanied by a conspicuous and legible label, or by a printed statement if the fertilizer-pesticide product is distributed in bulk, having the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Net weight;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Brand and grade;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Guaranteed analysis showing the minimum percentage of each plant nutrient claimed to be contained in the fertilizer, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Total nitrogen (N) __ percent,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Available phosphate (P2O5) __ percent,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Soluble potash (K2O) __ percent;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Pesticide active ingredient or ingredients and guarantee or guarantees;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>U.S. Environmental Protection Agency pesticide product registration number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Lot number; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Manufacturer's or registrant's name and address, including city, state, and zip code.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Placement of Label on Package. A registrant shall place at the following location on the product package the label of each commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>On tags affixed to the end of the package; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Directly on the package, and for a bag containing 50 pounds or more of the product, the grade shall be legible and placed on the face of the package.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Additional Requirement for Specialty Fertilizer Label.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each brand and grade of specialty fertilizer distributed in the State shall be accompanied by a legible label placed on either the face of the container or on the upper 1/3 side of the container.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A specialty fertilizer label shall include information required for commercial fertilizer labels provided by Regulation .03A of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Requirements for Custom-Mix Fertilizer Label. Each lot of fertilizer mixed or blended according to a formula furnished by the purchaser shall be marked plainly or tagged with the words “custom-mix”, “buyer's mixture”, or “mixed-to-order”, and shall be accompanied by a shipping statement or label having the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Net weight;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Guaranteed analysis showing the minimum percentage of each plant nutrient claimed to be contained in the fertilizer; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Manufacturer's name and address, including street address, city, state, and zip code.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Proof of Claim."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may require a registrant to prove any claim made about any fertilizer or soil conditioner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Any research supporting a claim by a registrant shall be done by a commonly recognized institution or organization approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Record-Keeping Requirements of Registrant."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A registrant shall keep complete records on the distribution of each lot of commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner, and shall make these records available to the Department upon request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A registrant shall keep records for 2 years after a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner lot is distributed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A registrant's records shall have the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Source of the commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner lot, or, if unknown, a statement so indicating;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Manufacturer or supplier's name, address, and telephone number; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Lot numbers, quantities, dates of production or delivery, and available bar code information.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Tonnage and Sales Information Reporting."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Statement Required.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The registrant of each commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner shall submit to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A semiannual statement of the tonnage of each grade of commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner distributed in the State; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An inspection fee of 25 cents for each ton distributed, except a fertilizer or soil conditioner product distributed in a package of 10 pounds or less.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>This statement and inspection fee shall include each sale for the periods of January 1 through June 30 or July 1 through December 31 of each year.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Failure to File Statement or Pay Fee. If a registrant does not file a tonnage report and the inspection fee within 31 days after the end of the semiannual period, a collection fee amounting to 10 percent of the amount, or a minimum of $10, shall be assessed against the registrant. The amount of fees due constitutes a debt and may become the basis of a judgment against the registrant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Monthly Report of Sales and Distribution to Nonregistrant.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each registrant distributing or selling a commercial fertilizer to a nonregistrant shall mail to the Department, within 10 days, excluding legal holidays and Sundays, after the last day of each month a statement showing the following information for that month:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The total tons of commercial fertilizer distributed, by grades and analyses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The counties where the commercial fertilizer was distributed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The form in which the commercial fertilizer was shipped, such as, bags, bulk, or liquid.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If more than one person is involved in the distribution of the commercial fertilizer, the last registrant who distributes to a nonregistrant, whether a dealer or consumer, is responsible for reporting tonnage, unless a prior registrant has reported the tonnage distributed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Reporting.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The registrant of each commercial fertilizer and specialty fertilizer shall report to the Department on the amount of fertilizer sold and distributed each fiscal year beginning July 1st of a calendar year and ending on June 30th of the next calendar year, within 31 days after the end of this reporting period, for nonfarm use by grades and analysis to the following identified sectors:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Lawn and turf;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Golf course and athletic fields;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Gardening, including but not limited to landscaped areas such as vegetable and flower gardens, shrubs and trees, containers, water gardens, potting/planting soil with fertilizer; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Greenhouses and nurseries.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Instead of filing an annual report as required by this section, a registrant may file a monthly report of sales information along with the tonnage report as required by this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If more than one person is involved in the sale and distribution of the commercial fertilizer and specialty fertilizer, the last registrant who sells or distributes to a nonregistrant, whether a dealer or consumer, is responsible for reporting, unless a prior registrant has reported, as required by this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Inspection of Commercial Fertilizer or Soil Conditioner."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary may sample without charge any commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner to determine if it complies with the requirements of the Maryland Commercial Fertilizer Law, Agriculture Article, §§6-201—6-221, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A sample of not less than 1 pound of a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner shall be taken by the Secretary from containers, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For a lot of five to ten containers a sample shall be taken from all containers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For a lot of more than ten containers a sample shall be taken from only ten containers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Ten core samples shall be taken by the Secretary from each bulk lot.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Each sample shall be taken from original unbroken bags or containers when the contents have not been damaged by exposure, water, or other conditions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A homogeneous sample, as determined by the Secretary, may be taken from a liquid or fluid lot of commercial fertilizer.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Nutrient Deficiency or Excess."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A fertilizer is deficient in, or contains an excess of, one or more of its guaranteed nutrients if it contains less than, or more than, the allowances established in §B of this regulation, and is subject to a penalty as provided in Regulation .09 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Tolerance Table.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A commercial fertilizer's primary nutrients are out of tolerance if the analysis of any fertilizer nutrient exceeds or falls below the guarantee by more than the following values:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A commercial fertilizer's secondary nutrient or micronutrient is out of tolerance if the analysis of any nutrient is above or below the guarantee as described in the following table:</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A deficiency in an official sample of mixed fertilizer resulting from nonuniformity is not distinguishable from a deficiency due to actual plant nutrient shortage and is subject to a stop-sale or penalty.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Fertilizer Penalty Policy."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The penalties in §§B—D of this regulation apply to a manufacturer or registrant for any deficiency or excess of a nutrient that the manufacturer or registrant is required to or may guarantee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Primary Plant Nutrient.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Violation. A manufacturer or registrant violates this chapter by distributing any commercial fertilizer that does not fall within the range of tolerances for a primary plant nutrient provided by the Tolerance Table in Regulation .08B(1) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Penalty. For a violation of this section, a manufacturer or registrant is subject to a fine three times the commercial value, as published annually by the Secretary, of the nutrient deficiency in any lot analyzed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Secondary Plant Nutrient or Micronutrient Deficiency or Excess.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Calcium Carbonate.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Violation. A manufacturer or registrant violates this chapter by distributing a fertilizer in which the basicity or acidity as equivalent of calcium carbonate differs more than 5 percent or 100 pounds of calcium carbonate equivalent per ton from the manufacturer's or registrant's guarantee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Penalty. For a violation of this subsection, a manufacturer or registrant is subject to a penalty of 50 cents per ton for each 50 pounds calcium carbonate equivalent that varies from the guarantee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Chloride.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Violation. A manufacturer or registrant violates this chapter by distributing a fertilizer if it is labeled or branded for use on tobacco, and the chloride content exceeds the maximum amount guaranteed by more than 0.5 of 1 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Penalty. For a violation of this subsection, a manufacturer or registrant is subject to a penalty equal to 10 percent of the value of the fertilizer for each 0.5 of 1 percent of excess, or fraction of it.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Total Magnesium.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Violation. A manufacturer or registrant violates this chapter by distributing a fertilizer if its magnesium content is less than 0.2 unit plus 5 percent of the guarantee below the minimum amount guaranteed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Penalty. For a violation of this subsection, a manufacturer or registrant is subject to a penalty of $1 a ton for each 0.15 of 1 percent additional deficiency, or fraction of it.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Total Calcium.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Violation. A manufacturer or registrant violates this chapter by distributing a fertilizer if its calcium content is less than 0.2 unit plus 5 percent of the guarantee below the minimum amount guaranteed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Penalty. For a violation of this subsection, a manufacturer or registrant is subject to a penalty of $1 a ton for each 0.35 of 1 percent additional deficiency, or fraction of it.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Sulfur.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Violation. A manufacturer or registrant violates this chapter by distributing a fertilizer, including a mixed fertilizer branded for tobacco, if its sulfur content is less than 0.2 unit plus 5 percent of the guarantee below the minimum amount guaranteed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Penalty. For a violation of this subsection, a manufacturer or registrant is subject to a penalty of $1 a ton for each 0.5 of 1 percent deficiency, or fraction of it.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Other Secondary Plant Nutrient or Micronutrient Deficiency or Excess.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Violation. A manufacturer or registrant violates this chapter by distributing a commercial fertilizer that contains any other secondary plant nutrient or micronutrient not listed in this regulation that does not fall within the range of tolerances provided by the Tolerance Table in Regulation .08B(2) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Penalty. For a violation of this chapter, a manufacturer or registrant is subject to a penalty of $5 for each secondary plant nutrient or micronutrient deficiency or excess up to a maximum of $10 a ton.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Stop-Sale Order."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Stop-Sale Order.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A written stop-sale order may be issued by the Secretary for any commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner lot that the Secretary finds is in violation of the Maryland Commercial Fertilizer Law, Agriculture Article, §§6-201—6-221, Annotated Code of Maryland, or this chapter, or has been found by federal or State authorities to cause unreasonable adverse effects to humans, animals, plants, or the environment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A commercial fertilizer that contains an ingredient that is outside the allowable tolerance listed in Regulation .08 of this chapter, or that differs from the identity standards for commercial fertilizer as provided in COMAR 15.18.01, is subject to a stop-sale order.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Absence of Lot Number. If the Secretary suspects that a lot is in violation of this chapter or the Maryland Commercial Fertilizer Law, Agriculture Article, §§6-201—6-221, Annotated Code of Maryland, and if the lot is not numbered according to this chapter, the entire affected inventory may be placed under a stop-sale order by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Written Release. If a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner lot is under a written stop-sale order, the registrant shall remove it from the registrant's sales area and the lot may not be moved until released in writing by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Stop-Sale Notice To All Outlets and Distributors. A registrant shall notify all affected outlets and distributors of any stop-sale order placed by the Secretary on any lot of commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Refusal or Revocation of Registration."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary may refuse to register or may revoke any registration for a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner that does not comply with the requirements of this chapter or with the requirements of the Maryland Commercial Fertilizer Law, Agriculture Article, §§6-201—6-221, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person whose registration is refused or revoked, or who is subject to any penalty provided by this chapter, shall be given an opportunity for a hearing by the Secretary before any denial, revocation, or penalty is final.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §6-203, Annotated Code of Maryland; Chs. 484 and 485, §8, Acts of 2011</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: August 1, 1994 (21:15 Md. R. 1307)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective December 16, 2019 (46:25 Md. R. 1131)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06D adopted effective July 21, 2014 (41:14 Md. R. 799)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Compost"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural land” means land cultivated for the production of crops or used for raising livestock.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agricultural operation” means any farming operation devoted to the production for sale of crops or animals, including, but not limited to, fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry and dairy products, nuts, tobacco, aquaculture, nursery and floral products, and trees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Brand” means the term, design, trademark, or other specific designation under which a compost product is distributed in the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Certified operator” means an owner, operator, or employee of a composting facility who is certified by the Secretary under this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Compost” means a stabilized organic product produced by the controlled aerobic decomposition process in such a manner that the product may be handled, stored, and applied to the land or used as a soil conditioner in an environmentally acceptable manner without adversely affecting plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Compostable” means any biological material capable of being aerobically decomposed into compost.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Composting” is the aerobic degradation of organic matter to make compost.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Composting facility” means a facility where solid waste or organic material is processed using composting technology, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Physical turning;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Windrowing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Aeration or other mechanical handling of organic matter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Distribute” means to import, manufacture, produce, compound, mix, blend, barter, sell, offer for sale, consign, furnish, provide, or otherwise supply compost as part of a commercial enterprise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Industrial sludge” means the accumulated semiliquid suspension, settled, or dried residue of solids deposited as a by-product of an industrial process and which is claimed to have value in promoting plant growth or improving the soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Label” means the display of all written, printed, or graphic matter on the immediate container or a statement accompanying a compost product.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Labeling” means all written, printed, or graphic matter on or accompanying any compost product or the contents of any advertisement, brochure, poster, or television or radio announcement used in promoting the sale of a compost product.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Lot” means a definite quantity of a compost product by name, classification, or code designation as registered by the Secretary for distribution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Manure” means a solid waste composed of excreta of livestock, and residual materials that have been used for bedding, sanitary, or feeding purposes for animals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>Marginal Land.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Marginal land” means land where the soil characteristics do not support normal vegetative growth over time.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Marginal land” includes, but is not limited to, land abandoned due to mineral extraction, strip mine areas, areas where topsoil has been removed, fill areas with poor soil characteristics, or landfills with poor topsoil.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Mulch” means any material or product, with at least 50 percent of its volume composed of particles 1/2 inch or larger in size, that is distributed for primary use on the soil surface or around plants as decoration or as a protective covering to reduce moisture loss, control weeds, prevent erosion, reduce temperature changes, or similar purposes relating to the soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Organic” means any natural biological substance of plant or animal origin that is capable of microbial degradation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Origin” means the original physical source of the compostable material.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Person” includes the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“PFRP” means process to further reduce pathogens, as provided by COMAR 26.04.06.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Registrant” means a person who registers a compost product pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Septage” means the liquid and solid material pumped or removed from chemical toilets, septic tanks, seepage pits, privies, cesspools, or holding tanks when the system is cleaned and maintained.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Sewage sludge” means the accumulated semiliquid suspension, settled solids, or dried residue of these solids that is deposited from sewage in a wastewater treatment plant, whether or not these solids have undergone treatment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>Soil Conditioner.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Soil conditioner” means any substance or mixture of substances, except a commercial fertilizer, unmanipulated animal and vegetable manures, agricultural liming material, or gypsum, intended for sale, offered for sale, or sold for:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Manurial, soil enriching, or soil corrective purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Promoting or stimulating the growth of plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Increasing the productivity of plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Improving the quality of crops; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Producing any chemical or physical change in the soil.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Soil conditioner” includes, but is not limited to, materials such as compost, peat, vermiculite, perlite, or digestate produced by anaerobic digestion that are incorporated into the soil.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>Solid Waste.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Solid waste” means any garbage, refuse, sludge, or liquid from industrial, commercial, mining, or agricultural operations or from community activities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Solid waste” includes scrap tires and organic compostable materials, but does not include solid or dissolved material in domestic sewage or in irrigation return flows or compost as defined in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(28)"> <text>“Stabilized compost” means any compost that has ceased active biological decomposition, that is, the temperature of a 4-foot-high, 6-foot-diameter pile of compost may not rise more than 20°C above ambient temperature when the pile is left undisturbed for 72 hours at the composting facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(29)"> <text>“Yard waste” means organic plant waste derived from gardening, landscaping, and tree trimming activities, and includes leaves, garden waste, lawn cuttings, weeds, and tree prunings.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Registration of Compost."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Registration.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided by this regulation, a person shall register with the Department each brand or classification of compost before the compost is sold or distributed within the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person applying for registration shall submit the following information to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A completed registration application form provided by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A copy of the product label and any other labeling describing the product; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The registration fee of $15 for each brand or classification in bulk or in a package of more than 10 pounds, or $30 for each brand or product in a package of 10 pounds or less.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The following compost products are not subject to registration or regulation under this chapter:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Compost produced on a residential property by the owner or tenant for noncommercial use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Compost from normal farm operations, not for sale or distribution, for use only on an owner's farm or leased farm as a part of an agronomic, horticultural, or silvicultural operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Compost produced by a government agency to be given without charge to a person or for use by that agency on land that the agency owns or manages; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any product from solid waste that is composted merely to reduce the product's volume before disposal as a solid waste.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Registration Renewal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>By February 1 of each year, a registrant shall renew the registration with the Department for each brand or classification of compost distributed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person shall apply for renewal of a registration by submitting the following information to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A completed registration renewal application form provided by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A copy of the product label, and any other printed materials describing the product, if the label has been altered or changed since the product was last registered, or if 5 years have passed since the product label was last submitted to the Department with the registration renewal application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A registration fee of $15 for each compost brand or classification in bulk or in a package of more than 10 pounds, or $30 for each brand or product in a package of 10 pounds or less.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Proof of Claim. The Department may require a registrant to provide proof of any claim made on the registration application, the product label or labeling, or any other claim.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Operator Certification Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each composting facility regulated by this chapter shall operate under the supervision of a certified operator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Certification. A person shall apply for certification as a composting facility operator by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Applying to the Department on a departmental form; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Demonstrating proof of practical and scientific knowledge of composting by passing a written examination given by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Recertification. A person shall apply for renewal by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Applying to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Demonstrating satisfactory knowledge of composting by attending during the period of certification at least one training course approved by the Department or by reexamination; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Complying with all other requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A composting facility operator certificate is valid for 3 years beginning January 1, or whenever obtained, until December 31 of the third year of certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Examination.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each applicant for certification shall pass a written examination given by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall give the examination at least twice a year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department may provide either the required training or a list of study materials before any examination is given.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>To apply for the examination to be certified as a composting facility operator, an applicant shall file with the Department at least 15 days before any announced examination an application on the form the Department requires.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Composting Facility Operator Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A composting facility certified operator is responsible for complying with the requirements of this regulation when operating a composting facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For a composting facility receiving only agricultural or yard waste the following is required:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Stabilized compost, or any compost product to be distributed from the facility, shall be tested by the operator each quarter, or once every 20,000 tons of compost, whichever is more frequent, for each parameter listed in Table 1 of Regulation .11 of this chapter, using a method acceptable to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the compost test results are within the testing limits set forth in Regulation .05A of this chapter during the first year of operation, then the operator may test only once a year, provided the test results remain within the limits set forth in Regulation .05A of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An alternative testing schedule may be approved by the Secretary, provided the operator demonstrates that the alternative testing schedule will provide at least equivalent protection to the public and to the environment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The operator shall make test results available to the Department for inspection during the facility's normal hours of operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For a composting facility receiving solid waste other than only agricultural or yard waste the following is required:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The certified operator of a solid waste composting facility shall develop a quality assurance or quality control plan approved by the Department that describes monitoring, sampling, and analysis plans for testing the composting process and product to be distributed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall determine and the operator shall follow an appropriate monitoring and sampling schedule for the 15-month initial start-up period for any new facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Using information gained during the start-up period, a monitoring and sampling schedule for ongoing operations shall be developed by the operator with the Department, based on statistical methods for quality assurance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Samples of compost to be distributed shall be obtained by the operator in accordance with a plan approved by the Department. Samples of the compost produced at the facility shall be analyzed by the operator for each parameter listed in Table 1 of Regulation .11 of this chapter using a method acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Results of laboratory analysis for each parameter specified in Table 1 of Regulation .11 of this chapter shall be recorded by the operator and kept for 2 years at the facility and shall be available to the Department, upon request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Department may decrease or increase the parameters to be analyzed, or the frequency of analysis, based on monitoring data, changes in the waste stream or processing, or the potential presence of toxic substances.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The Secretary may conduct periodic sampling, without charge, and testing of any compost product to be distributed to determine if it complies with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The Secretary may establish additional limits on any classification of compost or any specific product if it is found that the compost contains a chemical or physical component that can cause unreasonable adverse effects to humans, animals, plants, or the environment.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Compost Classification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A compost product is classified as a General Use, Limited Use, or Restricted Use compost as shown in §§B—D of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>General Use Compost.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>General Use compost may not exceed the following specifications:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A General Use compost:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Shall pass through a 12mm (1/2 inch) screen;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Shall be stabilized;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>May not have an objectionable odor; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>May be distributed as a soil conditioner for use by the general public or for any use allowed by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Limited Use Compost.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A Limited Use compost may not exceed the following specifications:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A Limited Use compost:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Shall pass through an 18mm (3/4 inch) screen;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Shall be stabilized;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>May not have an objectionable odor; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>May only be distributed for use by a commercial, agricultural, institutional, or governmental operation, or for restricted use as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Restricted Use Compost:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A Restricted Use compost may not exceed the indicated maximum level for any heavy metal or trace element, as follows:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A Restricted Use compost:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>May not be a hazardous waste, as defined in COMAR 26.13.02.03;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>May not be stockpiled or disposed of unless authorized by the Maryland Department of the Environment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>May not be distributed or sold to the general public;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Is restricted to distribution for use as a final, intermediate, or alternate daily landfill cover, as provided by COMAR 26.04.07, or on marginal land or in land reclamation efforts if applied at rates not to exceed limits established in Table 2 of Regulation .12 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Includes any compost exceeding any parameter limit for Limited Use compost, as provided in Regulation .05C of this chapter, or any compost designated by the registrant as Restricted Use classification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Compost Labeling."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who manufactures or distributes a package or container of compost subject to this chapter is responsible for labeling the package or container with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Net weight or volume;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Brand under which the compost is distributed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Classification of compost;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Manufacturer's name and complete address; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Origin.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person who manufactures or distributes for bulk sale any compost subject to this chapter shall have a label or have labeling with information required in §A of this regulation. A manufacturer or distributor shall make any label or labeling information available to the Department, upon request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Each lot of bulk compost offered for sale or distribution by a person shall be identified by that person by a legible sign containing at least the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Brand name; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Classification of compost.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person who manufactures a compost produced from materials containing an industrial sludge is responsible for labeling the product indicating the origin of the industrial sludge.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A person who distributes a compost is responsible for the label or labeling or providing on a written invoice or shipping statement, if the compost is offered for bulk distribution, information indicating recommended uses, application rates, and use restrictions, if any, for the compost product, including information stating that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Compost classified as General Use may be used by the general public as a mulch, soil conditioner, or topsoil substitute;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Compost classified as Limited Use is limited for use as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Only for use by a commercial, agricultural, institutional, or governmental operation,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Only for use where contact by the general public is unlikely,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>On agricultural land when repeated applications occur to a site, the total amount of any heavy metal applied per acre per year to that site may not exceed 1/10 the maximum cumulative loading for that metal listed in Regulation .12 of this chapter, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The total amount of any heavy metal applied per acre cumulatively to a site may not exceed the maximum amount for that metal listed in Table 2 of Regulation .12 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Compost classified as Restricted Use is restricted for use as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Only for use as a landfill cover, on marginal land or in land reclamation efforts, provided that the maximum total amount of each heavy metal that is applied does not exceed the cumulative loading limit for that metal as listed in Regulation .12 of this chapter,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Only for use where there will be no contact by the general public with the compost, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Not for use by the general public.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Compost Tonnage Reporting."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Tonnage Reporting Statement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The registrant of each compost product shall submit to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A semiannual written statement of the tonnage for each brand or classification of compost distributed in this State; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Except as provided in §A(3) of this regulation, an inspection fee of 25 cents for each ton distributed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>This statement and inspection fee shall include each sale for the periods of January 1 through June 30 and July 1 through December 31 of each year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Through September 30, 2022, if the registrant is a private entity, the registrant is exempt from submitting an inspection fee of 25 cents for each ton of commercial compost distributed in this State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Failure to File Statement or Pay Fee. If a registrant fails to file a tonnage report and the inspection fee is not paid within 31 days after the end of the semiannual period, a collection fee amounting to 10 percent of the amount, or a minimum of $10, may be assessed against the registrant. The amount of fees due constitute a debt and may become the basis of a judgment against the registrant.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Record-Keeping Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A registrant or facility operator who distributes compost shall maintain complete records for 2 years for each lot of compost distributed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Records shall have the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Source, type, and quantity of compostable received;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Quantity and type of waste or compostable processed into compost;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Quantity and classification of compost produced, by product classification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Quantity and classification of compost distributed, by product classification; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Analytical results of compost testing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A registrant who distributes in bulk a Limited Use or Restricted Use compost product for application to soil on a site where repeated use of any compost is expected to occur shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Maintain for 10 years application records for each lot of compost product applied to that site; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Document cumulative loading of each heavy metal listed in Regulation .12 of this chapter applied to that site.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Inspection Procedures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department or a designee may examine records, and may inspect and sample without charge any compost or compost product of any producer or distributor to determine if the records or compost complies with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A sample or lot found by the Department not to be in conformity with the regulations in this chapter or with the Maryland Commercial Fertilizer Law shall be subject to a penalty or a stop-sale order. The Department shall issue a written notice of the violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department may inspect any load of compostable material or compost for hazardous or noncompostable material.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Refusal or Cancellation of Registration."> <text>The Secretary may refuse to register or may revoke any registration for a brand or classification of compost, or the certificate of a person, that does not comply with the requirements of this chapter or with the requirements of the Maryland Commercial Fertilizer Law.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Table 1. Compost Quality Parameters."> <text>Parameter Unit A. pH Standard units B. Regulated trace metals or inorganic pollutants: (1) Arsenic (As) mg/kg dry wt. (2) Cadmium (Cd) mg/kg dry wt. (3) Chromium (Cr) mg/kg dry wt. (4) Copper (Cu) mg/kg dry wt. (5) Lead (Pb) mg/kg dry wt. (6) Mercury (Hg) mg/kg dry wt. (7) Molybdenum (Mo) mg/kg dry wt. (8) Nickel (Ni) mg/kg dry wt. (9) Selenium (Se) mg/kg dry wt. (10) Zinc (Zn) mg/kg dry wt. C. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) mg/kg dry wt. D. Man-made inerts >4mm, 13mm percent dry wt. E. Film plastic >4mm percent dry wt.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Table 2. Compost Cumulative Loading Limits (Maximum)."> <text>Regulated Heavy Metal Cumulative Loadinga,b A. Arsenic 37 lbs/acre B. Cadmium 35 lbs/acre C. Chromium 2,680 lbs/acres D. Copper 1,340 lbs/acre E. Lead 270 lbs/acre F. Mercury 15 lbs/acre G. Molybdenum 16 lbs/acre H. Nickel 375 lbs/acre I. Selenium 90 lbs/acre J. Zinc 2,500 lbs/acre</text> <text>(a) This is the maximum sum of all prior loadings to the soil.</text> <text>(b) Compost shall have a pH greater than or equal to 5.5.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, Title 6, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 13, 1995 (22:3 Md. R. 155)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective December 16, 2019 (46:25 Md. R. 1131)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02A amended effective January 21, 2013 (40:1 Md. R. 22)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07A amended effective December 16, 2019 (46:25 Md. R. 1131)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Commercial Feed"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope of Regulations."> <text>This chapter governs the distribution of contract feed for chickens to a contract feeder.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Additive” means any substance that is a component of, or that is included in, a contract feed for the specific purpose of reducing the quantity of phosphorus in chicken waste.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Commercial feed” means a material which is distributed for use as feed, or for mixing in feed for chickens, except:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Unmixed and unprocessed whole seeds or meal made directly from the entire seeds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Unground hay; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Stover, silage, cobs, hulls, and whole or ground straw, none of which materials have been mixed with any other material.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Contract feed” means a commercial feed:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Intended for use as a chicken feed, according to an agreement between a distributor and a contract feeder; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Containing inorganic phosphorus.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Contract feeder” means an independent contractor who feeds a contract feed to chickens pursuant to a contract whereby commercial feed is supplied, or otherwise provided to the contract feeder, and payment is determined wholly or partially by feed consumption, mortality, profits, and amount or quality of the product.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Distribute” means to exchange, offer for sale, sell, barter, supply, or provide commercial feed, customer-formula feed, or contract feed to a contract feeder, or otherwise to supply or provide commercial feeds as part of a commercial enterprise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Enzyme” means a specific protein, or a substance containing a specific protein, that is used as a feed additive to increase the digestibility or availability of phytate-bound phosphorus in corn, sorghum, soybeans, and other cereal grains, or in any plant ingredients included in a commercial feed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, corporation, partnership, association, firm, or other business entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Phytase” means an enzyme, or specific protein, that is used as a feed additive to increase the digestibility or availability of phytate-bound phosphorus in corn, sorghum, soybeans, and other cereal grains, or in any plant ingredients included in a commercial feed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Contract Feed Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who distributes contract feed shall add to the feed phytase, other enzyme, or additive that reduces the level of phosphorus in poultry waste.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notification to Department.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>By January 1 of each year, a person distributing to a contract feeder a contract feed shall provide the Department with the following information for that calendar year:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Name of company or firm distributing a contract feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Name or identifying number of each contract feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Name of each type of enzyme or additive to be included in each contract feed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A copy of the product label, or scientific documentation, supporting the use of each enzyme or additive in the contract feed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>During the calendar year, any change in the type of enzyme or additive to be mixed with a contract feed shall be reported by the distributor to the Department before it is used in the feed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Record Keeping.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person distributing a contract feed to a contract feeder shall maintain a production record for each lot of feed produced or the quantity of feed produced during a specific period, such as each shift or each day.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each production record shall include the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Brand name or identifying number of the contract feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Lot identification or period of production at the feed manufacturing site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Specific name of the enzyme or additive included in the contract feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Quantity of the contract feed produced; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Quantity of the enzyme or additive included in the contract feed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Each contract feed production record shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Maintained for 1 year from the date of manufacture of each lot or designated quantity of contract feed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Made available, upon request, to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Contract Feed Analysis.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A person producing a contract feed shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Collect a representative sample from at least one lot per quarter of a contract feed produced at each feed mill;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Have the sample analyzed by a laboratory to determine the activity or concentration of phytase, other enzyme, or additive present in the contract feed sampled;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Maintain for at least 1 year from the date of analysis the laboratory results of each contract feed analyzed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Make available, upon request, to the Department the results of the laboratory analysis of each representative sample.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each person producing a contract feed shall make available to the Department, upon request, a sample from any lot of contract feed produced for distribution to a contract feeder. When analyzing any sample, the Department shall use the method of analysis provided in the Journal of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Departmental Access to Records. A person producing or distributing a contract feed in the State shall provide access for the Secretary to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Inspect the production of a contract feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sample any contract feed; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Review any records pertaining to the use of phytase, other enzyme, or additive in a contract feed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Penalty."> <text>A person who violates the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to the penalties and fines provided in Agriculture Article, §§12-101 and 12-102, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §6-107.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 13, 2002 (29:9 Md. R. 746)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="06" heading="Assessment on Commercial Equine Feed"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the assessment on commercial equine feed and to describe the procedures for its collection and possible refund to a retail purchaser. This 5-year program is intended to benefit Maryland's equine industry.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Commercial equine feed” or “feed” means feed that is labeled or intended for an equine, but does not include unprocessed feed such as hay, oats, corn, or any feed that is exempt from the registration requirements of the Maryland Commercial Feed Law, Agriculture Article, §6-107, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Equine” means a horse, mule, donkey, or pony.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Labeled” means labeling or any display of written, printed, or graphic matter affixed to or accompanying the feed or the container in which the commercial equine feed is sold, including an invoice or delivery ticket.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, governmental entity, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Registrant” means a person who is required to register feed pursuant to the Maryland Commercial Feed Law, Agriculture Article, §6-107, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Assessment."> <text>There is an assessment of $2 per ton on commercial equine feed sold in the State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Liability for Payment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Subject to the requirements of this chapter, a registrant shall pay the correct amount of the assessment to the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Quarterly Payment Requirements. A registrant shall pay the correct amount of the assessment for commercial equine feed sold in the State to the Secretary once each quarter as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For feed sold January 1 through March 31, the assessment shall be received by the Secretary by April 30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For feed sold April 1 through June 30, the assessment shall be received by the Secretary by July 30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For feed sold July 1 through September 30, the assessment shall be received by the Secretary by October 30; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>For feed sold October 1 through December 31, the assessment shall be received by the Secretary by January 30.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Payment Form. A registrant shall pay by check or money order only, accompanied by a completed commercial equine feed assessment form provided by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Records."> <text>A person who is subject to the requirements of this chapter shall keep for 4 years all records in connection with the sale of commercial equine feed in the State. The records shall be made available to the Secretary upon request.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Reimbursement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Retail Purchaser. Subject to the requirements of this regulation, a person who purchases commercial equine feed at a retail location in this State may request reimbursement from the Secretary for the amount of any assessment paid on the feed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Reimbursement Form. A person who requests reimbursement shall provide the Secretary with an original sales receipt for the feed and a completed form adopted by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Request Period. A person who requests reimbursement of the assessment shall submit a request that is received by the Secretary not more than 120 days from the feed purchase date.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Request Denied. The Secretary shall deny any request for reimbursement if received after the 120-day period provided in this regulation, or if assessment funds have not been paid or are otherwise unavailable.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Retail Store Sign Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Posting at Point of Sale. A person who sells commercial equine feed at any retail location shall post in a noticeable place at the point of sale an appropriate sign, adopted by the Secretary, that informs the feed purchaser of the possibility of reimbursement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Sign Availability. Upon request, the Secretary shall provide a sign to any person who sells commercial equine feed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Assessment Use."> <text>Any assessment collected by the Secretary shall be paid into the Maryland Horse Industry Fund, as provided in Agriculture Article, §2-708.2, Annotated Code of Maryland, to be used only for education, research, and promotional materials and activities intended to benefit the Maryland equine industry.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Enforcement."> <text>The Secretary may take appropriate action to enforce the requirements of this chapter, as provided in Agriculture Article, §2-104, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §6-107.2, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.09 adopted as an emergency provision effective October 28, 2002 (29:23 Md. R. 1808); adopted permanently effective February 17, 2003 (30:3 Md. R. 181)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="07" heading="Administrative Penalty Standards"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose and Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes standards that determine the administrative penalty for any person who violates and is required to be registered under the Maryland Pesticide Registration and Labeling Law (Agriculture Article, Title 5, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland), the Maryland Commercial Feed Law (Agriculture Article, Title 6, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland), the Maryland Commercial Fertilizer Law (Agriculture Article, Title 6, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland), or the Agricultural Liming Materials and Gypsum Law (Agriculture Article, Title 6, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland).</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Penalty Instead of Refusing or Canceling a Registration."> <text>After notice and an opportunity for a hearing, the Secretary may impose a penalty on any person subject to the Secretary's regulatory authority, instead of refusing or canceling a registration.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Violations."> <text>The Secretary may impose a penalty on any person who:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Violates any of the regulatory requirements of the Maryland Pesticide Registration and Labeling Law under Agriculture Article, Title 5, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Violates any of the regulatory requirements of the Maryland Commercial Feed Law under Agriculture Article, Title 6, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Violates any of the regulatory requirements of the Maryland Commercial Fertilizer Law under Agriculture Article, Title 6, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Violates any of the regulatory requirements of the Maryland Agriculture Liming Materials and Gypsum Law under Agriculture Article, Title 6, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Violates any stop sale order or other regulatory order issued by the Secretary for any commodity sold or offered for sale under Agriculture Article, Title 5, Subtitle 1, or Title 6, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Fails to pay any assessed penalty to the Department as required by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Classifications of Violations for the Purpose of Determining Penalties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For a violation of Regulation .03 of this chapter, a penalty may be imposed by the Secretary, considering the nature and gravity of each violation as determined by §B of this regulation, consistent with the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For the first violation, a penalty of not less than $100 or more than $500;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the second violation a penalty of not less than $500 or more than $1,500;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For the third and any subsequent violation, a penalty of not less than $1,000 or more than $2,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before imposing any administrative penalty under this chapter, the Secretary shall consider the following if relevant to a violation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation, the extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator but uncorrected by the violator, and the extent to which the violator exercised reasonable care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The extent to which the violation caused harm to the environment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any economic loss to the State or to citizens of the State; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The extent to which the violation is a part of a recurring pattern of violations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Appeal."> <text>A person may appeal the Secretary's decision to impose a penalty as provided in Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland. A person shall be notified of this right to appeal.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Penalty Payment."> <text>Unless a person appeals, the amount of a penalty shall be paid to the Secretary within 30 days of the violation notice.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§5-107.1 and 6-401, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 27, 2006 (33:4 Md. R. 354)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="08" heading="Record-Keeping Requirements for Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter establishes record-keeping requirements for a person who sells or distributes ammonium nitrate fertilizer.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Ammonium nitrate fertilizer” means a fertilizer that is chiefly the ammonium salt of nitric acid that contains not less than 33 percent nitrogen, 1/2 of which is in the ammonium form and 1/2 of which in the nitrate form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Record-Keeping Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who sells or distributes ammonium nitrate fertilizer shall maintain for at least 2 years, at a business location, a record for each sale or distribution, with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The date of sale or distribution;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The name and address of the buyer and recipient;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A photocopy of the buyer or recipient's state issued driver license, or a copy of the buyer or recipient's picture identification card; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The quantity of ammonium nitrate purchased or delivered.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The records required to be maintained under this chapter shall be made available to the Secretary upon request.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Penalty."> <text>A person who violates this chapter is subject to an administrative penalty provided in Agriculture Article, §6-401, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §6-209.1, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 10, 2006 (33:7 Md. R. 675)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="09" heading="Pet Food and Specialty Pet Food"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope and Purpose."> <text>This chapter establishes the requirements for registering pet food and specialty pet food prior to distribution in Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Incorporation by Reference."> <text>The technical standards provided in this chapter are found in the 2016 official publication of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), under AAFCO Dog and Cat Food Nutrient Profiles, pp. 150—175, Procedures for Establishing Pet Food Product Families, p. 191, and AAFCO Dog and Cat Food Feeding Protocols, pp. 176—190, which are incorporated by reference.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“AAFCO” means the Association of American Feed Control Officials.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“All life stages” means gestation/lactation, growth and adult maintenance life stages.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Family” means a group of products that are nutritionally adequate for any or all life stages based on nutritional similarity to a lead product, which has been successfully test-fed according to an AAFCO feeding protocol or protocols.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Immediate Container.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Immediate container” means the unit, can, box, tin, bag, or other receptacle or covering in which a pet food or specialty pet food is displayed for sale to retail purchasers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Immediate container” does not include containers used as shipping containers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Ingredient statement” means a collective and contiguous listing on the label of the ingredients of which the pet food or specialty pet food is composed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Principal display panel” means the part of a label on the pet food or specialty pet food that is most likely to be displayed, presented, shown, or examined under normal and customary conditions of display for retail sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Pet” means dog or cat.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Pet food” means any commercial feed prepared and distributed for consumption by dogs or cats.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Specialty pet” means any domesticated pet normally maintained in a cage or tank, such as, but not limited to, gerbils, hamsters, canaries, psittacine birds, mynahs, finches, tropical fish, goldfish, snakes and turtles.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Specialty pet food” means any commercial feed prepared and distributed for consumption by specialty pets.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Raw milk” means any milk or milk product, exclusive of any USDA licensed biologics, from any species other than humans, that has not been pasteurized in accordance with processes recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Label Format for Pet Food and Specialty Pet Food."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements. In addition to other requirements for commercial feed provided by law, the requirements of this regulation shall apply also to pet food and specialty pet food.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Pet Food Labeling. A pet food and specialty pet food shall be labeled with the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The product name and brand name if any, on the principal display panel as specified Agriculture Article, §6-109(a)(2), Subtitle 1, Title 6, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A statement specifying the species name of the pet or specialty pet for which the food is intended, conspicuously designated on the principal display panel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A quantity statement as defined in Agriculture Article, §11-308, Subtitle 3, Title 11, Annotated Code of Maryland, on the principal display panel, by weight (pounds and ounces, and metric), liquid measure (quarts, pints, and fluid ounces and metric) or by count;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Guaranteed analysis as specified in Agriculture Article, §6-109(a)(5), Subtitle 1, Title 6, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An ingredient statement as specified Agriculture Article, §6-109(a)(3), Subtitle 1, Title 6, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A statement of nutritional adequacy or purpose if required under these regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Feeding directions if required under these regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Name and address of the manufacturer or distributor as stipulated in Agriculture Article, §6-109(a)(4), Subtitle 1, Title 6, Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>A unique and traceable lot number or production date.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Requirements for Outer Container or Wrapper. When a pet food or specialty pet food is enclosed in an outer container or wrapper and is intended for retail sale, the following requirements apply to the outer container or wrapper:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A vignette, graphic, or pictorial representation of any product on any pet food or specialty pet food label shall not misrepresent the contents of the package;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The use of the term “proven” in connection with a label claim for a pet food or specialty pet food is not permitted unless the claim is substantiated by scientific or other empirical evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>No statement shall appear upon the label of any pet food or specialty pet food which makes false or misleading comparisons between that food and any other pet or specialty pet food;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Personal or commercial endorsement or endorsements are permitted on pet food or specialty pet food labels if it is not false or misleading;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A statement on a pet food or specialty pet food label stating “improved”, “new”, or a similar designation shall be substantiated and limited to 6 months’ production; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A statement on a pet food or specialty pet food label stating preference or a comparative attribute or attributes claim shall be substantiated and is limited to 1 year of production, after which the claim shall be removed or re-substantiated.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Requirement for Raw Milk.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Raw milk distributed as pet food or specialty pet food shall bear the following statement:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>This warning statement shall be displayed in a conspicuous manner and shall not be smaller than the height of the minimum font for the quantity statement as shown in the following table:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The label shall bear a unique and traceable lot number or production date.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Brand and Product Names."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements. In addition to the requirements for commercial feed provided by law, the following requirements of the regulation apply also to pet food and specialty pet food.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Designation of “100%” or “All”. The designation “100%” or “All” or words of similar connotation shall not be used in the brand name or product name of a pet food or specialty pet food if the product contains more than one ingredient, provided, for the purpose of this section only, not including water sufficient for processing, required decharacterizing agents and trace amounts of preservatives and condiments.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Designation of Ingredients. An ingredient or a combination of ingredients may form a part of the product name of a pet food or specialty pet food if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The ingredient or ingredients constitutes at least 95 percent of the total weight of the product.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Water sufficient for processing may be excluded when calculating the percentage, however, the ingredients shall constitute at least 70 percent of the total product weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any ingredient constitutes at least 25 percent of the weight of the product, excluding water sufficient for processing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any descriptor that shall imply that other ingredients are included in the product formula. Examples of descriptors include “dinner”, “platter”, “entrée”, “formula”, and “recipe.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The descriptor is in the same size, style, and color print as the ingredient name or names.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The combination of ingredients which are included in the product name complies with the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Each ingredient constitutes at least 3 percent of the product weight, excluding water sufficient for processing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The name of the ingredients appear in the order of respective predominance by weight in the product; and all the ingredient names appear on the label in the same size, style and color print.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Use of Ingredient Name. When the name of an ingredient appears in the product name of a pet food or specialty pet food or elsewhere on the product label and includes a descriptor such as “with” or similar designation, the named ingredient or ingredients shall each constitute at least 3 percent of the product weight exclusive of water for processing. If the names of more than one ingredient are shown, they shall appear in respective order of predominance by weight in the product. The 3 percent minimum level does not apply to claims for condiments or nutrients, such as, but not limited to, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. The word “with”, or similar designation, and named ingredient or ingredients shall be in the same size, style, color and case print and be of no greater size than:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Designation of Flavor. A flavor designation may be included as part of the product name or elsewhere on the label of a pet food or specialty pet food if the flavor designation meets the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The flavor designation:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Conforms to the name of the ingredient listed in the ingredient statement; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is identified by the source of the flavor in the ingredient statement;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The word “flavor” is printed in the same size type and with an equal degree of conspicuousness as the name of the flavor designation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Substantiation of the flavor designation, the flavor claim, or the ingredient source is provided upon request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Ingredients as Product Name. The product name of the pet food or specialty pet food shall not be derived from one or more ingredients unless all ingredients are included in the name, except as specified by Regulation .04B, C, or D of this chapter, provided that the name of an ingredient or combination of ingredients may be used as a part of the product name if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The ingredient or combination of ingredients is present in sufficient quantity to impart a distinctive characteristic to the product or is present in amounts that have a material bearing upon the price of the product or upon acceptance of the product by the purchaser thereof; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>It does not constitute a representation that the ingredient or combination of ingredients is present to the exclusion of other ingredients.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Contractions or Coined Names. Contractions or coined names referring to ingredients shall not be used in the brand name of any pet food or specialty food unless they are in compliance with Regulation .04B, C, or D of this chapter Regulation .04B, C, or D of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Designation of Raw Milk. When pet food or specialty pet food consists of raw milk, the words, “Raw (blank) Milk” shall appear conspicuously on the principal display panel. The blank is to be completed by using the species of animal from which the raw milk is collected.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Expressions of Guarantees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements. In addition to the requirements for commercial feed provided by law, the following requirements of these regulations shall also apply to pet food and specialty pet food.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Guaranteed Analysis Requirement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The “Guaranteed Analysis” on a pet food or specialty pet food label shall be listed in the following order and format unless otherwise specified in these regulations:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimum percentage of crude protein;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Minimum percentage of crude fat;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Maximum percentage of crude fat, if required by Regulation .12 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Maximum percentage of crude fiber;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Maximum percentage of moisture; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Additional guarantees shall follow moisture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When ash is listed in the guaranteed analysis on a pet food or specialty pet food label, it shall be guaranteed as a maximum percentage and shall immediately follow the moisture guarantee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A dog or cat food label shall list other required or voluntary guarantees in the same order and units of the nutrients in the AAFCO Dog or Cat Food Nutrient Profiles (current printed AAFCO OP). Guarantees for substances not listed in the AAFCO Dog or Cat Food Nutrient Profiles, or not otherwise provided for in these regulations, shall immediately follow the listing of the recognized nutrients and be accompanied by an asterisk referring to the disclaimer “not recognized as an essential nutrient by the AAFCO Dog or Cat Food Nutrient Profiles.” The disclaimer shall appear immediately after the last guarantee under this item in the same size type as the guarantees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A specialty pet food label shall list other required or voluntary guarantees in the same order and units of the nutrients in an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile for the specific species; however, if no species-specific AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile is available, the order and units shall follow the same order and units of nutrients in the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profile. Guarantees for substances not listed in an AAFCO recognized nutrient profile for the specific species of animal shall immediately follow the listing of recognized nutrients and shall be accompanied by an asterisk referring to the disclaimer “not recognized as an essential nutrient by the ________.” The blank is to be completed by listing the specific AAFCO nutrient profile. This disclaimer shall appear immediately after the last such guarantee in the same size type as the guarantees. No such disclaimer shall be required unless an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile is available for the specific species of specialty pet.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Sliding Scale Method Prohibited. The sliding scale method of expressing any guaranteed analysis, for example, “protein 15—18 %”, is prohibited.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Mineral Supplement Representation. The label of a pet food or a specialty pet food that is formulated as and represented to be a mineral supplement shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Minimum guarantees for all minerals from sources declared in the ingredient statement and established by an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile, expressed as the element in units specified in the nutrient profile; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Minimum guarantees for all minerals from sources declared in the ingredient statement as the element in units specified in the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles, if no species-specific nutrient profile has been recognized by AAFCO, and provided that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Mineral guarantees required by Regulation .06 D(1) and (2) of this chapter may be expressed in milligrams (mg) per unit, such as tablets, capsules, granules, or liquids, consistent with those employed in the quantity statement and directions for use; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A weight equivalent, such as 1 fluid ounce = 28 grams, for liquid products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Representation of Vitamin Supplement. The label of any pet food or specialty pet food, which is formulated as and represented to be a vitamin supplement, shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Minimum guarantees for all vitamins from sources declared in the ingredient statement and established by an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile, expressed in units specified in the nutrient profile; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Minimum guarantees for all vitamins from sources declared in the ingredient statement expressed in units specified in AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles when no species-specific nutrient profile has been recognized by AAFCO, and provided that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Vitamin guarantees required by Regulation .06E(1) and (2) of this chapter may be expressed in approved units, such as IU, mg, or g, per unit, such as tablets, capsules, granules or liquids, consistent with those employed in the quantity statement and directions for use; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A weight equivalent such, as 1 fluid ounce = 28 grams, for liquid products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Comparison of Nutrient Content. When the label of any pet food or specialty pet food includes a comparison of the nutrient content of the food with levels established by an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile, such as a table of comparison, a percentage or any other designation referring to an individual nutrient or all of the nutrient levels, the following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The product shall meet the AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The statement of comparison shall be preceded by a statement that the product meets the AAFCO-recognized profile; however, the statement that the product meets the AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile is not required provided that the nutritional adequacy statement as per Regulation .09B(1) or C(1) of this chapter appears elsewhere on the product label;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The statement of comparison of the nutrient content shall constitute a guarantee, but need not be repeated in the guaranteed analysis; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The statement of comparison may appear on the label separate and apart from the guaranteed analysis.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Moisture Declaration. The maximum moisture declared on a pet food or specialty pet food label shall not exceed 78 percent or the natural moisture content of the ingredients, whichever is higher. However, pet food or specialty pet food such as those consisting principally of stew, gravy, sauce, broth, aspic, juice or a milk replacer, which are so labeled, may contain moisture in excess of 78 percent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Guarantees for Crude Ingredient. Guarantees for crude protein, crude fat and crude fiber are not required if the pet food or specialty pet food is intended for purposes other than to furnish the substances or the substances are of minor significance relative to the primary purpose of the product, such as a mineral or vitamins supplement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Guarantees for Microorganisms. Guarantees for microorganisms and enzymes shall be stated in the following format:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Guarantees for microorganisms shall be stated in colony forming units per gram (CFU/gm) when directions are for using the product in grams, or in colony units per pound (CFU/lb) when directions are for using the product in pounds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A parenthetical statement following the guarantee shall list each species in order of predominance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Guarantees for enzymes shall be stated in units of enzymatic activity per unit weight or volume, consistent with label directions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The source organism for each type of enzymatic activity shall be specified, such as: Protease (Bacillus subtilis) 5.5 mg amino acids liberated/min./mg. If two or more sources have the same type of activity, they shall be listed in order of predominance based on the amount of enzymatic activity provided.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Ingredients."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements. In addition to the requirements for commercial feed provided by law, the following requirements of these regulations shall also apply to pet food and specialty pet food.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Ingredient Statement Requirement. Each ingredient of a pet food or specialty pet food shall be listed in the ingredient statement as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The names of all ingredients in the ingredient statement shall be shown in letters or type of the same size;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The ingredients shall be listed in descending order by predominance by weight in nonquantitative terms;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The ingredients shall be listed and identified by the name and definition established by AAFCO; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any ingredient with no established name and definition shall be identified by the common or usual name of the ingredient.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Meat and By-products Ingredients. The ingredients “meat” and “meat by-products” shall be qualified to designate the animal from which the meat or meat by-products are derived unless the meat or meat by-products are derived from cattle, swine, sheep, goats, or any combination of those animals. For example, ingredients derived from horses shall be listed as “horsemeat” or “horsemeat by-products.”</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Prohibition. Brand or trade names shall not be used in an ingredient statement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Ingredient Attributes. A reference to the quality, nature, form, or other attribute of an ingredient shall be allowed when the reference meets all of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The designation is not false or misleading;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The ingredient imparts a distinctive characteristic to the pet food or specialty pet food because it possesses that attribute; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A reference to quality or grade of the ingredient does not appear in the ingredient statement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Pet Food Additives."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements. In addition to the requirements for commercial feed provided by law, the following requirements of these regulations shall also apply to pet food and specialty pet food.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Artificial Color. An artificial color may be used in a pet food or specialty pet food if it has been shown to be harmless to pets or specialty pets. The permanent or provisional listing of an artificial color listed in CFR, Title 21, as safe for use, together with the conditions, limitations and tolerances, if any, incorporated therein, shall be deemed to be satisfactory evidence that the color is, when used pursuant to such regulations, harmless to pets or specialty pets.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Safety and Efficiency of Additives. Evidence may be required to prove the safety and efficacy or utility of a pet food or specialty pet food which contains additives or drugs, when used according to directions furnished on the label. Satisfactory evidence of the safety and efficacy of a pet food or specialty pet food may be established when the pet food or specialty pet food contains such additives, the use of which conforms to the requirements of the applicable regulation in CFR, Title 21 or which are “prior sanctioned” or “informal review sanctioned” or “Generally Recognized as Safe” for such use.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Nutritional Adequacy."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Requirements. In addition to the requirements for commercial feed provided by law, the following requirements of these regulations shall also apply to pet food and specialty pet food.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Nutritional Claim. The label of a pet food or specialty pet food that is intended for all life stages of the pet or specialty pet may include an unqualified claim, directly or indirectly, such as “complete and balanced”, “perfect”, “scientific”, or “100% nutritious” if at least one of the following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The product meets the nutrient requirements for all life stages established by an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The product meets the criteria for all life stages as substantiated by completion of the appropriate AAFCO-recognized animal feeding protocol or protocols; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The product is a member of a product family that is nutritionally similar to a lead product containing a combination of ingredients that has been fed to a normal animal as the sole source of nourishment in accordance with the testing procedures established by AAFCO for all life stages, provided that;</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The nutritional similarity of the family product can be substantiated according to the Procedures for Establishing Pet Food Product Families developed by AAFCO (AAFCO Official Publication, pp 191, 2016);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The family product meets the criteria for all life stages; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The Secretary may require the manufacturer to perform additional testing of the family product in order to substantiate the claim of nutritional adequacy.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Limited Purpose Nutritional Claim. The label of a pet food or specialty pet food that is intended for a limited purpose, such as the size of dog, or a specific life stage, but not for all life stages, may include a qualified claim such as “complete and balanced”, “perfect”, “scientific”, or “100% nutritious” if the product and claim meets all of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The claim is qualified with a statement of the limited purpose or specific life stage for which the product is intended or suitable, such as, “complete and balanced for puppies (or kittens),” and the claim and the required qualification shall be juxtaposed on the same label panel and in the same size, style and color print; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The product meets at least one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The nutrient requirements for the limited purpose or specific life stage established by an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The criteria for a limited purpose or a specific life stage as substantiated by completion of the appropriate AAFCO-recognized feeding protocol or protocols; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The requirements of a product family which is nutritionally similar to a lead product that contains a combination of ingredients which, when fed for the limited purpose, will satisfy the nutrient requirements for the limited purpose and has had its capabilities in this regard demonstrated by adequate testing, and provided that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The nutritional similarity of the family product can be substantiated according to the Procedures for Establishing Pet Food Product Families developed by AAFCO;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The family product meets the criteria for the limited purpose; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The Secretary may require the manufacturer to perform additional testing of the family product in order to substantiate the claim of nutritional adequacy.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Dog and Cat Food Labels. Dog and cat food labels shall include a statement of nutritional adequacy or purpose of the product except when the dog or cat food is clearly and conspicuously identified on the principal display panel as a “snack”, “treat”, or “supplement”. The statement shall consist of one of the following.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A claim that the dog or cat food meets the requirements of one or more of the recognized categories of nutritional adequacy: gestation/lactation, growth, maintenance, and all life stages.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“(Name of product) is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog (or Cat) Food Nutrient Profiles for _________” (Blank is to be completed by using the stage or stages of the pet’s life, such as, gestation/lactation, growth, maintenance or the words “All Life Stages”).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For a dog food, when the blank in Regulation .09D(1)(a)of this chapter includes the words “growth” or “All Life Stages”, one of the following phrases shall also be added verbatim to the end of the claim:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>“Including growth of large size dogs (70 lbs. or more as an adult)” if the product has been formulated to meet the levels of nutrients specifically referenced in the Dog Food Nutrient Profiles as being applicable to large size growing dogs; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>“Except for growth of large size dogs (70lbs/ or more as an adult)” if the product has not been formulated to meet the levels of nutrients specifically referenced in the Dog Food Nutrient Profiles as being applicable to large size growing dogs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>“Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that (Name of Product) provides complete and balanced nutrition for ______” (Blank is to be completed by using the stage or stages of the pet’s life tested, such as, gestation/lactation, growth, maintenance or the words “All Life Stages”).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>“(Name of Product) provides complete and balanced nutrition for ______ “ (Blank is to be completed by using the stage or stages of the pet’s life, such as, gestation/lactation, growth, maintenance or the words “All Life Stages”) and is comparable in nutritional adequacy to a product which has been substantiated using AAFCO feeding tests.”</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A nutritional or dietary claim for purposes other than those listed in Regulation .09 B or C of this chapter, if the claim is scientifically substantiated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The statement “This product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only,” if a product does not meet the requirements of this part or any other special nutritional or dietary need and so is suitable only for limited or intermittent or supplementary feeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Products Intended for Veterinarians. The label of a product intended for use by a veterinarian or under the direction of a veterinarian shall contain a statement in accordance with Regulation .09D of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Affidavit for Product. A signed affidavit attesting that the product meets the requirements of Regulation .09B or C of this chapter shall be submitted to the Secretary upon request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Products That Do Not Meet AAFCO Nutrient Requirements. If the nutrient content of a product does not meet those nutrient requirements established by an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile or if no requirement has been established by an AAFCO recognized nutritional authority for the life stage or stages of the intended species, the claimed nutritional adequacy or purpose of the product shall be scientifically substantiated by the applicant for registration.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>AAFCO Recognized Nutrient Requirements. The following AAFCO-recognized nutritional authority, nutrient profile, and animal feeding protocol are acceptable as the basis for a claim of nutritional adequacy:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>As an AAFCO-recognized nutrient profile or:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For dogs, the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For cats, the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For specialty pets, the nutrient recommendations approved by the Committee on Animal Nutrition of the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences, provided that this nutrient recommendation is recognized only for the specific specialty pet for which the profile is intended; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>As an AAFCO–recognized animal feeding protocol or protocols, the AAFCO Dog and Cat Food Feeding Protocols (AAFCO Official Publication, pp 176—190, 2016).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Feeding Directions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Dog or Cat Food Snacks or Treats. Dog or cat food, including snacks or treats, labeled as complete and balanced for any or all life stages, as provided in Regulation .09D(1) of this chapter except those pet foods labeled in accordance with Regulation .09E of this chapter shall list feeding directions on the product label. These directions shall be consistent with the intended use or uses indicated in the nutritional adequacy statement, unless a limited use or more limited life stage designation is declared elsewhere (e.g., “adult formula”). These directions shall be expressed in common terms and shall appear prominently on the label. Feeding directions shall, at a minimum state, “Feed (weight/unit of product) per (weight only) of dog (or cat)”. The frequency of feeding shall also be specified.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Products Intended for Veterinarians. When a dog or cat food is intended for use by or under the supervision or direction of a veterinarian, the statement: “Use only as directed by your veterinarian” may be used in lieu of feeding directions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Specialty Pet Food Snacks or Treats. Specialty pet food, including snacks or treats, labeled as complete and balanced for any or all life stages, as provided in Regulation .09B of this chapter shall list feeding directions on the product label. These feeding directions shall be adequate to meet the nutrient requirements of the intended species of specialty pet as recommended by the AAFCO-recognized nutritional authority. These directions shall be expressed in common terms and shall appear prominently on the label. The frequency of feeding shall also be specified.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Statements of Calorie Content."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Dog and Cat Labels. The label of a dog or cat food shall bear a statement of calorie content and meet all of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The statement shall be separate and distinct from the “Guaranteed Analysis” and appear under the heading “Calorie Content”;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The statement shall be measured in terms of metabolizable energy (ME) on an “as fed” basis and shall be expressed as “kilocalories per kilogram” (kcal/kg) of product, and may also be expressed as kilocalories per familiar household measure, (e.g., cans or cups) or unit of product (e.g., treats or pieces);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The calorie content shall be determined by one of the following methods:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>By calculation using the “modified Atwater” formula:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In accordance with a testing procedure established by AAFCO.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An affidavit shall be provided upon request to the Secretary, substantiating that the calorie content was determined by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Regulation .11A(3)(a) of this chapter in which case the summary data used in the calculation shall accompany the affidavit; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Regulation .11A(3)(b) of this chapter in which case the summary data used in the determination of calorie content shall accompany the affidavit.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The calorie content statement shall appear as one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The heading “Calorie Content” on the label or other labeling shall be followed parenthetically by the word “calculated” when the calorie content is determined in accordance with Regulation .11A(3)(a) of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The heading “Calorie Content” on the label or other labeling shall be followed parenthetically by the word “fed” when the caloric content is determined in accordance with Regulation .11A(3)(b) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Comparative Claim. Comparative claims shall not be false, misleading or given undue emphasis and shall be based on the same methodology for the products compared.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Descriptive Terms."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Calorie Terms.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A dog food product that bears on its label the terms “light”, “lite”, “low calorie”, or words of similar designation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contain no more than 3,100 kcal ME/kg for products containing less than 20 percent moisture, no more than 2,500 kcal ME/kg for products containing 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent moisture, and no more than 900 kcal ME/kg for products containing 65 percent or more moisture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Include on the label a calorie content statement:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>In accordance with the format provided in Regulation .11 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Which states no more than 3,100 kcal ME/KG for products containing less than 20 percent moisture, no more than 2,500 kcal ME/kg for products containing 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent moisture, and no more than 900 kcal ME/kg for products containing 65 percent or more moisture; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Include on the label feeding directions which reflect a reduction in calorie intake consistent with the intended use.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A cat food product that bears on its label the terms “light,” “lite,” “low calorie,” or words of similar designation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contain no more than 3,250 kcal ME/kg for products containing less than 20 percent moisture, no more than 2,650 kcal ME/kg for products containing 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent moisture, and no more than 950 kcal ME/kg for products containing 65 percent or more moisture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Include on the label a calorie content statement:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>In accordance with the format provided in Regulation .11 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Which states no more than 3,250 kcal ME/KG for products containing less than 20 percent moisture, no more than 2,650 kcal ME/kg for products containing 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent moisture, and no more than 950 kcal ME/kg for products containing 65 percent or more moisture; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Include on the label feeding directions which reflect a reduction in calorie intake consistent with the intended use.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Less” or “Reduced Calories”.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A dog or cat food product that has on its label a claim of “fewer calories,” “reduced calories,” or words of similar designation, shall comply with requirements of this section.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The dog or cat food product shall have a label that includes the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the product of comparison and the percentage of calorie reduction, expressed on an equal weight basis, explicitly stated and juxtaposed with the largest or most prominent use of the claim on each panel of the label on which the term appears;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The comparative statement printed in type of the same color and style and at least one-half the type size used in the claim;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A calorie content statement in accordance with the format provided in Regulation .11 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Feeding directions that reflect a reduction in calories compared to feeding directions for the product of comparison; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A comparison between products in different categories of moisture content (i.e., less than 20 percent, 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent, 65 percent or more) is misleading.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Fat Terms.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A dog food product that bears on its label the terms “lean”, “low fat”, or words of similar designation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contain no more than 9 percent crude fat for products containing less than 20 percent moisture, no more than 7 percent crude fat for products containing 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent moisture, and no more than 4 percent crude fat for products containing 65 percent or more moisture; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Include on the product label in the guaranteed analysis:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A maximum crude fat guarantee immediately following the minimum crude fat guarantee in addition to the mandatory guaranteed analysis information as specified in Regulation .06B(1)(c) of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A maximum crude fat guarantee that is no more than 9 percent crude fat for products containing less than 20 percent moisture, no more than 7 percent crude fat for products containing 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent moisture, and no more than 4 percent crude fat for products containing 65 percent or more moisture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A cat food product that bears on its label the terms “lean,” “low fat,” or words of similar designation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contain no more than 10 percent crude fat for products containing less than 20 percent moisture, no more than 8 percent crude fat for products containing 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent moisture, and no more than 5 percent crude fat for products containing 65 percent or more moisture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Include on the product label in the guaranteed analysis:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A maximum crude fat guarantee immediately following the minimum crude fat guarantee in addition to the mandatory guaranteed analysis information as specified in Regulation .06B(1)(c) of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A maximum crude fat guarantee that is no more than ten percent crude fat for products containing less than 20 percent moisture, no more than 8 percent crude fat for products containing 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent moisture, and no more than 5 percent crude fat for products containing 65 percent or more moisture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A dog or cat food product that bears on its label a claim of “less fat”, “reduced fat”, or words of similar designation, shall include on the label:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the product of comparison and the percentage of fat reduction (expressed on an equal weight basis) explicitly stated and juxtaposed with the largest or most prominent use of the claim on each panel of the label on which the term appears;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A maximum crude fat guarantee in the guaranteed analysis immediately following the minimum crude fat guarantee in addition to the mandatory guaranteed analysis information as specified in Regulation .06B(1)(c) of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The comparative statement printed in type of the same color and style and at least one-half the type size used in the claim.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A comparison between products in different categories of moisture content, for example, less than 20 percent, 20 percent or more but less than 65 percent, 65 percent or more, is misleading.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Raw Milk."> <text>Raw milk may not be registered for use as pet food for any species when it is packaged in containers that resemble containers intended for milk for human consumption, or it is stored at retail with, or in the vicinity of, milk or milk products intended for human consumption.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Manufacturer or Distributor — Name and Address."> <text>The label of a pet food or specialty pet food shall specify the name and address of the manufacturer or distributor. The statement of the place of business should include the street address, city, state and zip code. If a person manufactures or distributes a pet food or specialty pet food in a place other than the principal place of business, the label may state the principal place of business in lieu of the actual place where each package of the pet food or specialty pet food was manufactured or packaged or from which each package is to be distributed.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Records and Reports."> <text>Any manufacturer or distributor of pet food and specialty pet food shall maintain and furnish upon request by the Secretary or his authorized representative, such records and reports as the Secretary deems necessary to indicate the accuracy of any registration of a pet food or specialty pet food, and any other records and reports required by the commercial feed law.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §6-101 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 10, 2017 (44:7 Md. R. 357)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="19" heading="Grain Dealers' Licensing"> <chapter num="01" heading="General Regulations"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations govern any person required to be licensed as a grain buyer in this State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Certified public accountant” means any person permitted to engage in the practice of public accounting by the State Board of Accountancy.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Fair market value” means the market value established by a contract or by the Department for a loss of grain at the time of the loss.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Grain” means corn, wheat, rye, oats, barley, sorghum, soybeans, and sunflowers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Grain dealer” means a person who is in the business of buying, receiving, exchanging, or storing grain from a person who grows grain. Grain dealer does not mean a farmer who buys, receives, exchanges, or stores grain for use in the farming business of that farmer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Person” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An individual or a corporation, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, or association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Two or more persons having a joint or common interest;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any other legal or commercial entity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Secretary” means Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Licensure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may not be a grain dealer without first obtaining a grain dealer's license from the Secretary as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>By way of example but not limitation, a licensed grain dealer shall be a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Receives grain, in the course of his business, from a grower under a deferred payment contract. “Deferred payment contract” means a grain sales contract when the grower conveys title to the grain to a person for an agreed price, but payment for the grain is delayed until an agreed later date.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Receives grain, in the course of his business, from a grower under a deferred price contract. “Deferred price contract” includes such contracts as a so-called “price later contract”, “open price contract”, “delayed price contract”, and means a grain sales contract when the title to grain is conveyed to a person from a grower, but when the grower (seller) is allowed to determine the price of grain at a later date either based on a future month's price for grain set by a commodity exchange or by some other mutually agreed method of price determination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In the course of his business, stores grain for a grower for later use by the grower for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Seed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A crop cover; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Resale by the grower.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Is in the business of buying, receiving, exchanging, or storing grain for a person whose grain is grown by an agent, tenant, or employee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Types of Licenses. The type of license an applicant shall obtain and the license fee the applicant shall pay is dependent on the number of bushels he anticipates handling in the year of the application as shown in the chart below:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The license shall be effective until the following December 31, unless suspended or revoked.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If a person who has been issued a license is handling an amount of grain greater than the amount he was licensed to handle he shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Immediately notify the Department of this change in status; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Be issued a new license by the Department after he has done the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Correctly revised his application,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Paid additional money toward his license fee so that the sum total of what he paid previously and his new payment equals an amount that meets the requirements of §C of this regulation,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Revised his financial statement to comply with Regulation .06, if necessary, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Posted additional sums of monies to comply with Regulation .05, if necessary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Requirements of Licensure."> <text>A license may not be issued or renewed by the Department unless the applicant has:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Applied on a form provided by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Paid the fee that is required for the license being obtained as set forth in Regulation .03C of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Complied with one of the following options:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Posted a surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit, or cash guaranty, as required by Regulation .05 of this chapter, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Filed a financial statement as required by Regulation .06 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Provided proof of insurance coverage as required by Regulation .07 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Provided additional financial information when requested by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Posting."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the applicant chooses to post a surety bond, letter of credit or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the applicant does not file a financial statement, the Department may not issue a:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Type A license if the applicant posts an amount less than $15,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Type B license if the applicant posts an amount less than $35,000; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Type C or D license if the applicant posts an amount less than $100,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the applicant chooses the posting option, he shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Show the same name for the following matters:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The named applicant, in his grain dealer's license application,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The named principal, if he posts a surety bond, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The named obligor or guarantor, if he posts either an irrevocable letter of credit or cash guaranty;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Name the Maryland Department of Agriculture as the obligee or as the beneficiary of the surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit or cash guaranty.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Financial Statement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the applicant chooses to file a financial statement, he shall indicate in the statement a minimum net worth for each type of grain dealer's license as follows:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the applicant does not post a surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit or cash guaranty, the Department may not issue a:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Type A license if the financial statement indicates a minimum net worth less than $15,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Type B license if the financial statement indicates a minimum net worth less than $35,000; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Type C or D license if the financial statement indicates a minimum net worth less than $100,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An applicant for a Type A or B license shall submit a financial statement that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is prepared and signed by a person who is not the applicant or a member of the applicant's business or family;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Establishes a net worth for the applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Is signed by the applicant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>An applicant for a Type C or D license shall file a:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Financial statement reviewed by a certified public accountant establishing the net worth of the applicant's business as provided in §A of this regulation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Letter from a certified public accountant stating that a review of the applicant's business records shows a net worth as provided in §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Insurance Requirement for Licensees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person licensed under this chapter shall insure, and at all times keep insured, in that licensed person's name or as a co-insurer, all of the grain received into the actual physical control or possession of the licensed person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The amount of insurance shall be the fair market value of the grain and shall include coverage against theft, loss or damage by fire, lightning, inherent explosion, water, windstorm, cyclone, tornado, or other act of God.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If any loss or damage to grain or to the warehouse or warehouses occurs, whether the loss was insured against, the dealer shall immediately notify the Secretary, and at the grain dealer's own expense, promptly take the steps necessary to collect any monies which may be due as indemnity for the loss or damage.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The applicant shall submit one of the following items as proof of insurance:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An insurance policy certified to be true by the insurance company or agency; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An insurance binder or other evidence of insurance that contains or refers to other papers accompanying these forms that contain the information specified in §§B, C, and E of this regulation, if the policy is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Not yet available from the insurance company, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Made available for inspection by the Department within 90 days of the policy's effective date.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may not accept as proof of insurance any insurance policy that does not contain a clause requiring the insurer to notify the Secretary at least 45 days in advance of any policy's cancellation or nonrenewal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A person licensed under this chapter may not receive grain into that person's physical control or possession unless insured as required by this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Posting of License."> <text>Immediately upon receipt, a person shall post the grain dealer license in a conspicuous place at each place of business where grain is received.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Required Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Records showing the total amount of grain bought, received, exchanged, or stored in the dealer's grain business shall be kept at each place of business or at one central location within the boundaries of the State. If records are stored at one central location from more than one location, it shall be noted at each location the central location and the date the transfer of records occurred.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Records of grain transactions shall be kept for 3 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Grain records shall be available to the Secretary upon request. If not, the Secretary may take action as provided by Regulation .10 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Inspection of Records and Premises."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon request, the Secretary may review grain records of a grain dealer during normal business hours.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Secretary may subpoena the business records of any person believed to be acting as a grain dealer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a person fails to comply with a subpoena, the Secretary may petition a court of competent jurisdiction to gain compliance.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Disciplinary Action Against Licensee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After a hearing, the Secretary may refuse to issue a license or may suspend or revoke a license for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Fraudulent or deceptive statements on an application for a license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Conviction of a violation of any of the provisions of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Failure to maintain adequate insurance on all grain received into the physical control or possession of the grain dealer; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Failure to notify the Secretary and to comply with the requirements of Regulation .03E of this chapter by a person who is handling more grain than allowed by the scope of the license.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If a license is suspended or revoked, it shall be returned immediately to the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Civil Penalties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Instead of, or in addition to, suspension or revocation of a license, the Secretary may impose a civil penalty as provided under §D of this regulation on a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Makes fraudulent or deceptive statements on an application for a license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Submits fraudulent or deceptive financial or insurance documentation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Fails to maintain adequate insurance on all grain received into the physical control or possession of the grain dealer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Refuses to make business records available upon request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Operates as a grain dealer without first obtaining a license; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Violates any other provisions of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Classification of Violations for the Purpose of Determining Penalties.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In this regulation, “violation” means a criminal conviction or an administrative finding that a person has committed any of the acts provided under §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For a violation of an act referenced under §A of this regulation, a civil penalty may be imposed by the Secretary, considering the nature and gravity of each violation, consistent with the following standards:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For the first violation, a penalty of not more than $500;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For the second violation, a penalty of not more than $1,000; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For the third and any subsequent violation, a penalty of not more than $5,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Payment of Penalty. Unless a stay has been granted, a person against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this chapter shall promptly pay the amount of the penalty to the Department within the time specified in the Department's notice to that person, or as otherwise agreed upon by the Department and the person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Appeal. A person may appeal the Secretary's decision to impose a civil penalty as provided in Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland. The person shall be notified by the Department of this right to appeal.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Criminal Penalties."> <text>A person who violates the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction is subject to a fine of $10,000.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Injunction."> <text>An injunction prohibiting a person from engaging in a violation of this subtitle may be sought by the Attorney General.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§13-201—13-216, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 11, 1982 (9:20 Md. R. 1981)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939); October 19, 1987 (14:21 Md. R. 2223)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03C—E adopted effective October 19, 1987 (14:21 Md. R. 2223)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939); October 19, 1987 (14:21 Md. R. 2223)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .05 and .06 repealed and new Regulations .05 and .06 adopted effective October 19, 1987 (14:21 Md. R. 2223)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07D amended effective October 19, 1987 (14:21 Md. R. 2223)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .09 and .10 repealed and new Regulations .09—.12 adopted effective April 20, 1987 (14:8 Md. R. 939)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended effective September 4, 2000 (27:17 Md. R. 1621)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 amended and recodified to Regulations .13 and .14, and new regulation .12 adopted effective September 4, 2000 (27:17 Md. R. 1621)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="20" heading="Soil and Water Conservation"> <chapter num="01" heading="Agricultural Drainage Projects"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>These regulations establish the requirements for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of agricultural drainage projects that are financed or managed by public drainage associations. To the maximum extent practicable, these regulations assure protection of natural resources and prevent water pollution by non-point source pollutants associated with agricultural drainage projects.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural drainage project” (project) means the construction, reconstruction, repair, straightening, widening, or deepening of any ditch, drain, canal, or other watercourse, natural or man-made, financed or managed by a public drainage association to lower the water level in the soil of adjacent lands for agricultural purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Association” and “public drainage association” mean an organization established to locate, construct or reconstruct, operate and maintain ditches, drains, and channels to provide agricultural drainage under Article 25, §52, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Best management practice” (BMP) means a conservation or pollution practice that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Reduces soil loss associated with farming practices; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Minimizes movement of sediment, animal wastes, nutrients, or agricultural chemicals into the waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Cooperator's agreement” means a landowner's written agreement with a local soil conservation district to have a soil conservation and water quality plan prepared.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Department of the Environment, or the Department of Natural Resources, or any combination of them.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Maintenance” means the periodic:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Control of woody growth or removal of shrubs and small trees which alter the flow, affect channel stability, or limit access to a channel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Removal of channel obstructions, debris, and minor sediment deposits so long as the removal does not:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Alter the approved design of the channel; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Consist of channel reconstruction or realignment;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Cleaning out or installation of sediment traps;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Routine repair work needed to maintain the project in accordance with the approved design specifications; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Installation of water control structures and stabilization of soil to prevent erosion.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Off-sided construction or reconstruction” means a method of constructing channels through riparian or other woodland, characterized by the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Construction or reconstruction operations are performed from one side of the channel called the construction side, the other side of the channel being called the off-side;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Blowouts and treefalls are prevented by:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Clearing the off-side bank of trees and other vegetation up to 12 feet from top of bank, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Selectively cutting diseased, damaged, and other problematic trees on the off-side that would fall into the channel from beyond the cleared area;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>After construction, the off-side berm is allowed to reestablish natural vegetation, while all maintenance to the channel is performed from the construction side.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Person” means any individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, personal representative, fiduciary, or representative of any kind any partnership, association, corporation, or other entity. Person includes the federal government, this State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of this State or any of their units.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Pollution” means any contamination or other alteration of the physical, chemical, or biological properties of any waters of this State, including a change in temperature, taste, color, turbidity, or odor of the waters, or the discharge or deposit of any organic matter, harmful organism, or liquid, gaseous, solid, radioactive, or other substance into any waters of the State that will render the waters harmful, or detrimental to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Public health, safety, or welfare;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational, or other legitimate beneficial uses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Livestock, wild animals, or birds; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Fish or other aquatic life.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture unless the context indicates otherwise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Soil conservation and water quality plan” means a farm plan approved by a local soil conservation district to minimize soil erosion, and to minimize the movement of sediment, animal waste, nutrients, or agricultural chemicals into the waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Stable channel” means a channel where:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The following degradation does not occur:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Significant erosion of the channel banks and bottom,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Erosion around culverts, bridges, or water control structures along the channel, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The formation or enlargement of gullies because of the uncontrolled entry of water flow;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Significant aggregation to the channel occurs only within the designated limits on:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Sediment traps,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>In-stream wetlands designed for this purpose, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Channel reaches designed for this purpose.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Water control structure” means a structure in an Agricultural drainage project that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Conveys water;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Controls the direction or rate of flow of water; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Maintains a desired water surface elevation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Waters of the State” includes both surface and underground waters within the boundaries of the State subject to its jurisdiction, including that portion of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundaries of the State, the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, and all ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, public ditches, tax ditches, and public drainage systems within the State, other than those designed and used to collect, convey, or dispose of sanitary sewage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="General Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Required Plans.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For any project constructed or reconstructed before the effective date of this chapter, the following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All associations which operate and maintain a project shall submit to the Secretary for approval:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Within 1 year of the effective date of this chapter, an inspection report for the project detailing the conditions of the association's drainage system, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Within 5 years of the effective date of this chapter, an operation and maintenance plan for the project and an implementation schedule of needed corrective maintenance and repairs to the project;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Until such time that an operation and maintenance plan for the project is approved by the Secretary, an association shall perform needed maintenance to the project in an environmentally sound manner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>An association shall operate and maintain a project according to the operation and maintenance plan for the project approved by the Secretary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>If an association intends to perform any project maintenance not addressed in an existing operation and maintenance plan for a project approved by the Secretary, the association shall obtain the written approval of the Secretary, except that an association may make immediate corrective repairs to a project when necessary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The Secretary shall make the final determination whether any proposed activity on a project is maintenance or reconstruction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For any project constructed or reconstructed after the effective date of this chapter, the following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Before constructing or reconstructing a project, an association shall have a construction or reconstruction plan and an operation and maintenance plan for the project approved by the Secretary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An association shall construct or reconstruct, operate and maintain a project according to the construction or reconstruction plan and the operation and maintenance plan for the project approved by the Secretary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If an association intends to perform any project maintenance not addressed in a existing operation and maintenance plan for the project approved by the Secretary, the association shall obtain the written approval of the Secretary, except that an association may make immediate corrective repairs to a project when necessary;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The Secretary shall make the final determination whether any proposed activity on a project is maintenance or reconstruction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Land Use Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Before any project's construction or reconstruction plan is approved:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All of the association's taxable cropland acreage in a proposed project shall be under a:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Current, not more than 10 years old, soil conservation and water quality plan; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Signed cooperator's agreement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If any landowner refuses to comply with §B(1)(a), the Secretary may:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Waive the requirement of §B(1)(a) for those uncooperative landowners in a proposed project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Not waive this requirement for more than 20 percent of the association's taxable cropland acreage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Those BMPs necessary to minimize non-point source water pollution shall be implemented on the cropland acreage within a proposed project.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Soil conservation and water quality plans for farms within a proposed project shall be implemented, if possible, according to a timetable established by the soil conservation and water quality plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Agricultural Drainage Project Plans."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Construction or Reconstruction Plan Requirements. Before constructing or reconstructing a project, an association shall comply with the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submit four copies of the construction or reconstruction plan to the Secretary for approval.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The construction or reconstruction plan shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A transmittal letter to the Secretary, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The name of the association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The name of the watershed and the drainage area involved; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>A map indicating north arrow, watershed boundaries, scale, and any other information necessary to locate the project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The project design specifications, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A general description of the project's soil types;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The layout of the drainage channels;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The location of existing areas of trees and shrubs along the channel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>The design and location of water control structures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>The design and location of sediment traps;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vi)"> <text>A hydrological analysis if required under Regulation .05B; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vii)"> <text>A wetlands inventory map delineating the project. The association shall use the National Wetlands Inventory Maps available from the Department of Natural Resources. If the scale of the National Wetlands Inventory maps is inappropriate, the association may use maps of another scale, so long as the wetlands classification and mapping is consistent with the National Wetlands Inventory. Any lost wetlands required to be replaced under Regulation .05F and any wetlands, 1/4 acre or larger, created by the project shall be delineated on the wetlands inventory map.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The construction methods, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Open channel construction techniques;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Measures to limit disturbance to the soil;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Spoil spreading techniques and information concerning the volume of spoil materials and the location of spoil disposal sites; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Temporary or permanent soil stabilization techniques for channel banks, berms, and soil disposal sites.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Water quality protection measures including plans for:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Establishing vegetative strips along the channels;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Installing BMPs along the channels;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Retaining or reestablishing areas of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous growth along the channel in accordance with Regulation .05E; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Replacing wetlands in accordance with Regulation .05F.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A signed statement from the local soil conservation district, stating that the project's farmland will meet the soil conservation and water quality plan requirements in accordance with Regulation .06.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The project's design shall comply with Regulation .05, and the construction or reconstruction of the project shall comply with Regulation .06.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Operation and Maintenance Plan Requirements. Before constructing or reconstructing a project, or as required in Regulation .03A(1) for operating and maintaining a project, an association shall comply with the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submit four copies of the operation and maintenance plan to the Secretary for approval.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The operation and maintenance plan shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A transmittal letter to the Secretary, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The name of the association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The name of the watershed and the drainage acreage involved; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>A map indicating north arrow, watershed boundaries, scale, and any other information necessary to locate the property.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The project's maintenance program, including a general description of the project's soil types and provisions to:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Perform routine, recurring maintenance such as mowing, seeding, and clean out;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Prevent project deterioration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Install or replace project components when necessary; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Repair damage from normal deterioration, drought, flooding, or vandalism.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Maintenance methods, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Open channel maintenance techniques;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Measures to limit soil disturbance;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Spoil spreading techniques; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Temporary or permanent soil stabilization techniques for the channel banks, berms, and spoil disposal areas.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Water quality protection measures, including plans for:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Establishing and maintaining vegetative strips along a channel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Installing BMPs along a channel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Installing sediment traps;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Disposing of spoil; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Retaining or reestablishing areas of trees, shrubs and herbaceous growth along a channel in accordance with Regulation .05E(4).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>An implementation schedule for the project's maintenance program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The project's maintenance shall comply with Regulation .06, and the project's operation and maintenance program shall comply with Regulation .07.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Construction or Reconstruction Design Criteria."> <text>The design of a project shall conform to the following criteria:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Channel Design.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An outlet shall be designated for each channel to permit the discharge of water by gravity flow or pumping.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All channels shall be sloped and aligned to produce stable channels.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Water Control Structures.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The channel design shall include necessary water control structures for the efficient functioning of the channels. These structures include:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Water control devices and weirs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Flood gates;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Pumping bays; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Other structures affecting the functioning of the channel.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Water control structures shall be designed, where applicable, according to the provisions in Natural Resources Article, §4-501 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Flood Control.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A project shall be designed to minimize upstream and downstream flooding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An association shall submit an analysis of a project's hydrological impact when downstream flooding exists or may result from a project and populated areas may be affected.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Hydrological analysis shall include hydrological models and hydraulic calculations necessary to determine the changes to a 100-year frequency flood including modifications to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Water surface elevations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Water velocities; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Hydrograph timing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Formulae, models, and analysis methods for the hydrological analysis shall be subject to approval by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Erosion Control.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A project shall be designed to minimize erosion and sediment deposition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sediment traps shall be installed in key locations along channel reaches.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Water control structures shall be designed for the entry of concentrated flow of water into a channel without significant deposition or degradation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A channel shall be designed to minimize overbank wash of channel spoil by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Diverting surface water around spoil banks;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Protecting channel bank stability by properly placing spoil; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Sloping the finished surface of the spoil away from a channel.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Vegetated Strips.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The following definitions describe the meaning of the terms used in §D:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Main channel” means the primary water course constructed or maintained by an association that drains water from a subwatershed or watershed area and lateral channels.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Lateral channel” means any watercourse constructed or maintained by an association that transports water from segments of a subwatershed or watershed to the main channel.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Vegetated strips shall be designed, established, and maintained to stabilize the soil and to minimize the movement of sediment into a channel during operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Measurements for a vegetated strip shall be made from the top of a channel bank.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A minimum 10-foot wide vegetated strip shall be established and maintained along each cleared side of a main channel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A minimum 4-foot wide vegetated strip shall be established and maintained along each cleared side of a lateral channel only if acceptable BMPs submitted to the Secretary for approval are implemented on adjoining cropland. The following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Acceptable BMPs may include:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Minimum tillage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Seasonal cover crops;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Reverse berms;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Permanent sediment traps in on-farm channels; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Other methods to achieve a level of water quality protection equivalent to a 10-foot wide vegetated strip.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In the absence of BMPs approved by the Secretary, a minimum 10-foot wide vegetated strip shall be established and maintained along each cleared side of a lateral channel.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Vegetation shall be established and maintained to stabilize the soil on the sides of both channel banks.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Water Temperature Controls.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>One-sided or off-sided construction or reconstruction of a channel in woodland shall be used if practical.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Both-sided construction of a channel in woodland shall be allowed by the Secretary only when it is the only practical construction method.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Both-sided reconstruction of a channel in woodland shall be allowed by the Secretary when:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>It is the only practical reconstruction method; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Both-sided construction or reconstruction was previously used and both right-of-ways are clear of woody growth.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Areas of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous growth that shade a channel shall be retained, replanted, or allowed to reestablish naturally, unless it can be demonstrated to the Secretary that the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Presence of trees and shrubs will prevent adequate access to a channel for maintenance; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Absence of these areas of trees and shrubs will not elevate water temperature to levels that will adversely impact fish or other aquatic life.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Wetlands Replacement. An association shall replace drained or filled, non-tidal wetlands as required by this section. The following are included:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Land areas that are required to be replaced by an association under this section are those areas that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Support a predominance of plants that grow in water or in periodically water saturated soils;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Have remained natural and uncultivated for at least 3 successive years; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>When drained or filled, will cause water pollution by significantly:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Increasing erosion and siltation, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Reducing the area's ability to filter water pollutants.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Land areas required to be replaced under this section shall be replaced as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>One acre of land with equal soil-water conditions shall be created to replace each acre of drained or filled land when the:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Water table is near the soil surface for extended periods during the frost-free growing season of most years; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Soil is water-saturated, or surface water is present for extended periods during the frost-free growing season of most years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In all other cases, 1 acre of temporarily to permanently flooded land shall be created to replace every 4 acres of drained or filled land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Secretary shall consult with the Secretaries of the Departments of Natural Resources and the Environment to determine if an association's construction or reconstruction plan adequately meets the requirement of this section.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Construction and Maintenance Criteria."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In-stream Excavation. Except with the written permission of the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources, in-stream excavation or clearing is prohibited between the following dates:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>October 1 through April 30 in natural trout waters;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>March 1 through May 31 in recreational trout waters; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>March 15 through June 15 in anadromous fish spawning waters.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Clearing and Snagging.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Clearing and snagging of a channel may not endanger channel stability.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The areas to be cleared and snagged shall be limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The channel bottom, banks, and berms;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Adjacent trees or other objects that may fall into a channel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Access roads;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Temporary disposal areas; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Areas designated by a soil conservation district for planned conservation areas.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Revegetation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>On each project, a species of erosion controlling vegetation adapted to the area and a proven method of vegetation establishment shall be used for revegetation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provisions shall be taken on a project to reduce soil erosion until effective revegetation can be accomplished.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>During the growing season, at a minimum:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Channel banks shall be seeded at the end of each day's excavation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Other areas where soil has been disturbed shall be seeded within 7 days of final soil disturbance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The progress of revegetation shall be monitored by the association and corrective action taken when necessary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Operation and Maintenance Program Criteria."> <text>The operation and maintenance program for a project shall conform to the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Maintenance. General maintenance to a channel, maintenance areas, and right-of-ways includes the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Removal of obstructions, debris, and sediment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Control of woody growth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Cleaning out of permanent sediment traps;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Installation of necessary sediment traps;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Installation of necessary water control structures where uncontrolled concentrated flow of water enters a channel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Stabilization of eroding areas;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Routine repair of damaged structures and channel banks; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Observation of all other sound operation and maintenance practices.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Sediment Traps and Channel Clean Out.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Sediment traps shall be installed where necessary for the efficient operation of a channel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The design and installation of a sediment trap shall include providing a stable channel bank slope.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The clean out of a channel or sediment trap includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Removal of silt bars and sediment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Restoration of a stable channel bank slope; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Maintaining the approved channel or sediment trap design.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Channel spoil shall be placed in locations where the spoil does not:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Prevent watershed runoff from entering the natural flood plain;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Interfere with travel ways;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Endanger the stability of a channel;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Fill adjacent wetlands; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Wash back into a channel.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Disturbed areas shall be stabilized and seeded in accordance with Regulation .06C.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Vegetated Strips. Vegetated strips shall be established and maintained on all channels in accordance with Regulation .05D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Water Temperature Control. Areas of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous growth shall be retained or reestablished in accordance with Regulation .05E(4).</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Agency Approval of a Plan."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this regulation, “plan” means a construction or reconstruction plan, or operation and maintenance plan, or both, as appropriate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Plan Submission.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within 14 days of receiving a project plan, the Secretary of Agriculture shall forward a copy to the Secretaries of Natural Resources and the Environment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Departments of Natural Resources and the Environment shall have 60 calendar days from receipt to review a plan and respond in writing to the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Secretary shall review the comments from the Departments of the Environment and Natural Resources. If there is any significant disagreement among the three Departments concerning the plan, the Secretary shall schedule a meeting between the Departments to resolve any disagreement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Plan Approval. The Secretary shall make the final determination whether to approve a plan. The Secretary shall respond to the association within 30 days from receipt of comments from the Departments of Natural Resources and the Environment and either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Approve the plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Approve the plan with modification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Approve the plan conditioned upon the formation of the association;</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Conditional approval may be issued for plans submitted by the county before an association is legally established,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Final approval shall be given only when the Secretary is furnished a letter from the county government stating that it has approved the plan and established the association,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any changes in the plan by a county shall be submitted to the Secretary, who shall forward copies to the Secretaries of the Departments of Natural Resources and the Environment for review;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Disapprove the plan; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Extend the Secretary's review period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Inspection and Enforcement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Channel Inspection by the Association.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The association managers or designee shall inspect the project within 2 weeks following any storm which results in water flow exceeding channel capacity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An association shall send a written inspection report to the Secretary not later than 90 days following the storm event. The report shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Detail the damage to the channels, vegetation, and water control structures; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Describe needed repairs and corrective maintenance and the projected time when the work shall be accomplished.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The association managers or designee shall inspect the project at least once every 2 years. The following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An association shall send a written inspection report to the Secretary by March 1st of the appropriate year. The report shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Outline the last inspection of the project performed not more than 6 months before submission;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Detail the condition of the channel, vegetation, and structures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Describe needed maintenance and the projected time when the work shall be completed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Describe the work completed in the previous 2 years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An association need not file the biennial written inspection report required in §A(3) if:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Storm damage occurred during the 6 months before March 1st of the appropriate year; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>An inspection report required in §A(1) was submitted.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An association shall keep records on work performed on a project. These records shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Include the items of work, cost, and the date the work was completed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Be made available upon request to the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>State Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall coordinate on-site inspections of a project by the Departments of Agriculture, the Environment, and Natural Resources.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An association shall grant each Department the right of entry to inspect a project to ensure that it complies with an approved construction or reconstruction plan or an approved operation and maintenance plan for the project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Enforcement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretaries of Agriculture, the Environment, or Natural Resources may pursue any sanction or remedy provided in Agriculture Article, §8-603, Annotated Code of Maryland. Before pursuing any sanction or remedy, however, the Secretaries of the Environment and Natural Resources shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Consult with the Secretary of Agriculture; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Provide the Secretary of Agriculture a reasonable period of time to solve any problem.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary of a Department may issue a written order for corrective measures to any person who violates this chapter, or who fails to follow any requirement of an approved project plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A person ordered to comply with this chapter may request a hearing. The following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The hearing request shall be made in writing to the Secretary who issued the order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The hearing request shall be made not later than 10 days after the date the order is served;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>When different Departments have initiated administrative proceedings arising from the same or related activities, any person subject to more than one order may request a consolidated hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The hearing shall be scheduled within 30 working days from the receipt of the request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A decision shall be rendered within 30 working days from the hearing date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The Administrative Procedure Act, State Government Article, §10-201 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland, governs the practice and procedure in all hearings and appeals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Whether an order for corrective measures has been issued or contested, the Secretary of a Department may, at any time, refer an alleged violation of this chapter or of any approved plan requirement directly to the Attorney General for appropriate legal action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>In addition to any other sanction under Agriculture Article, §8-603, Annotated Code of Maryland, any person who constructs, reconstructs, operates, or maintains an agricultural drainage project without approved plans or in violation of approved plan requirements, shall be liable to the State in a civil action for damages in an amount equal to double the costs of that portion of constructing, reconstructing, operating, or maintaining the project that was not done in accordance with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A civil action under Agriculture Article, §8-603, Annotated Code of Maryland, shall be prosecuted by the Attorney General on behalf of the appropriate Department. Damages recovered shall be deposited in a special fund to be used solely for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>First, correcting the deficiencies in the agricultural drainage project in question; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Second, supporting the Secretary of Agriculture's program for review and approval of the agricultural drainage projects.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The Secretary of any Department may seek an injunction against any person who does not have or fails to follow an approved plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103 and 8-603, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: August 1, 1986 (13:14 Md. R. 1635)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective August 2, 2004 (31:15 Md. R. 1186)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05F amended effective August 2, 2004 (31:15 Md. R. 1186)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08B, C amended effective August 2, 2004 (31:15 Md. R. 1186)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09B, C amended effective August 2, 2004 (31:15 Md. R. 1186)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Maryland Conservation Reserve Program" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.09 adopted as an emergency provision effective July 15, 1988 (15:16 Md. R. 1911); adopted permanently effective November 14, 1988 (15:23 Md. R. 2660)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter repealed effective August 2, 2004 (31:15 Md. R. 1186)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Deferral of Mitigation of Nontidal Wetlands on Agricultural Land"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>This chapter describes how farm owners or operators may petition the Department of Agriculture for written permission to defer mitigation for nontidal wetlands for agricultural activities under the Nontidal Wetlands Protection Act, Natural Resources Article, Title 8, Subtitle 12, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Petition to Defer Mitigation."> <text>Subject to the requirements of this chapter, a farm owner or operator may petition the Department for written permission to defer an applicable nontidal wetland mitigation component of a soil conservation and water quality plan on the grounds that mitigation will create an economic hardship that would jeopardize the continued operation of the farm.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Petition Content."> <text>A farm owner or operator who petitions the Department as provided under Regulation .02 of this chapter shall use a departmental form that contains:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The name and address of the farm owner or operator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The farm's location;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The farm's total acreage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A description of the farm's operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The number of nontidal wetland acres requiring mitigation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A copy of proposed mitigation alternatives;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The estimated cost or costs of the mitigation proposal or proposals, verified by the local soil conservation district;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>A statement showing how mitigation will jeopardize the continued operation of the farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>A financial statement:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Showing the owner or operator's complete assets and liabilities for the most current 2 consecutive years, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Signed by the owner or operator under the penalty of perjury that the information contained in the financial statement is true and correct; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Any additional information supporting the claim of economic hardship, including, for example, information from mortgagees, other lien holds, creditors, attorneys, the Internal Revenue Service, or any other third party interest who is qualified to address the economic condition of the owner or operator.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Grounds for Deferral."> <text>The Department shall decide whether an applicant is entitled to a deferral of mitigation of nontidal wetlands by doing the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Evaluating the applicant's petition and determine the applicant's net worth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Comparing the applicant's net worth with the cost of any proposed mitigation alternatives on the farm; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Determining whether a deferral is justified on the grounds that any required mitigation of nontidal wetlands will create an economic hardship which would jeopardize the viable continued operation of the farm.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Department Deferral."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the Department makes a written determination that mitigation will create an economic hardship that would jeopardize the continued operation of a farm, mitigation may be deferred until one or more of the following occur:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The economic hardship no longer exists;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The current owner or operator transfers the farm to a new owner or operator, but if this occurs, the current owner or operator shall remain responsible for any mitigation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Agricultural activities no longer take place on the impacted nontidal wetland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the Department grants a deferral, the owner or operator shall agree to provide the Department immediately with the following information if it would change or affect the economic hardship determination:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Change in the owner or operator's financial status;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Change in ownership or operation of the affected farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Change of land use on the affected farm; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Change of agricultural or nonagricultural activities on the affected farm.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>By May 30 of each year, the owner or operator shall submit to the Department, on a departmental form, the most current status on the owner or operator's economic hardship. The owner or operator shall use the last filed tax statement, annual or quarterly, to assist in completing the status report requirement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="End of Deferral."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>At the time the Department determines the end of the economic hardship as provided in this chapter, an owner or operator shall implement the mitigation component of the Soil Conservation and Water Quality Plan within 3 years of the loss of the nontidal wetlands, or within 1 year of the end of the economic hardship, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 90 days of the end of the Department's determination of economic hardship, an owner or operator shall file the required surety bond with the Department of Natural Resources under COMAR 08.05.04.13.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Department Report."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall submit an annual mitigation report to the Department of Natural Resources at the end of each fiscal year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The report in §A of this regulation shall provide the following information on the status of the Department's approval of economic hardship mitigation deferrals for each farm:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Whether the economic hardship still exists;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Whether the owner or operator granted the deferral is the current owner or operator; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The acreage of nontidal wetland losses for which mitigation has been deferred because of the economic hardship.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall notify the Department of Natural Resources within 30 days of the Department's determination of the end of the economic hardship.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Public Information."> <text>The Department shall deny public access to records if access is denied under the Maryland Public Information Act, State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 6, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Revoking Approval."> <text>After an opportunity for a hearing, the Department may refuse to issue or revoke its approval granted to any person under this chapter for:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Any false or incomplete statements made by any person to the Department for the Department's approval; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A violation of any of the provisions of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Natural Resources Article, §8-1205, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 30, 1991 (18:19 Md. R. 2102)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Nutrient Management Certification and Licensing"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>These regulations describe the Department's certification and licensing program for individuals or businesses that prepare and offer farm nutrient management plans.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When a nutrient management plan is prepared for a farm it indicates how essential primary nutrients, that is, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are to be annually managed on farm fields for crop production and for the protection of water quality. Plans contain recommendations to farmers based on expected crop yield, existing nutrient levels in the soil, organic residuals, optimum timing and placement of nutrients, environmental protection, and normal farming practices such as liming, tillage, and crop rotation. The Department shall certify qualified individuals to prepare these plans.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Certified farm operator” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan solely for agricultural land that the individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Owns;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Operates, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has a legal interest in.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Certified nutrient management consultant” or “consultant” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Crop nutrient needs” means the primary nutrient requirements of a crop determined as pounds of N, P2O5, and K2O required for production of a crop yield unit such as a bushel of corn or a ton of alfalfa.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture or its designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Fertilizer” means any substance containing a recognized plant nutrient used for its plant nutrient content and designed for use in promoting plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Field identification number” means a number used by a farmer/operator to distinguish or pinpoint the location of a field or management unit on a farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Nutrient content” means the percentage of any primary nutrients as N, P2O5, or K2O in any type or source of plant nutrients.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Nutrient management plan” or “plan” means a plan prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal waste, fertilizer, sewage sludge, or other plant nutrients in order to prevent pollution and to maintain the productivity of soil when growing agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Person” means the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Watershed code” means the code used by the State to identify a hydrologic unit area.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Certification and License Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless certified by the Department, an individual may not act as a certified nutrient management consultant or a certified farm operator as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless licensed by the Department, a person may not engage in the business of providing a certified nutrient management plan as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Certification Application and Examination Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>To apply for the examination to be certified as a nutrient management consultant, an applicant shall file the following with the Department at least 15 days before any announced examination:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An application on the form the Department requires;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Proof of meeting one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A school-authenticated college degree in an agriculturally related area, and 1 year of practical experience acceptable to the Department in nutrient management planning, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A combination of education and practical experience related to nutrient management planning which is acceptable to the Department; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Except for a government agency, the applicable certification fee by check or money order.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>To apply for the farm operator certification, a person shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>File the required application forms with the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pay the applicable fees by check or money order.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Unless timely filed and complete, an application may be denied.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Examination."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Nutrient Management Consultants.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall offer a certification examination for nutrient management consultants at least once a year. The Department shall give 30 days public notice of the time and place for each examination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department may provide required training or a list of study materials before any examination is given.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department shall allow a candidate who fails a certification examination to take another examination if the candidate:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Makes application to the Department 15 days before the next examination date; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Pays a certification fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Farm Operators.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall offer required certification training and examinations targeted to specific farm operation types for farm operators at least once per year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall allow a candidate who fails a certification examination to retake the examination if the candidate files an application with the Department at least 15 days before the date of the next examination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Certification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall certify any individual as a nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Meets the requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Meets the Department's educational and experience requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Meets the Department's training requirements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Passes a Department-approved examination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may issue a supplemental certification to an individual who prepares a nutrient management plan for an agricultural operation producing a specialty plant, crop, animal, or product, and who meets:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All the requirements of §A of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Additional educational and experience requirements relating to the production specialty, as approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Employment Requirement."> <text>An individual who is certified by the Department shall be licensed or employed by a person licensed under this chapter if engaged in the business of providing nutrient management plans. Individuals who are certified may develop a nutrient management plan for the purposes of complying with Regulation .09 of this chapter for land they own or operate without obtaining a license.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Certification Renewal."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A certificate is issued for 1 year and may be renewed for a 3-year term by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submitting a renewal application on the form the Department requires;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Except for a government agency or a farmer or operator doing a plan for land they manage, paying a renewal fee to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Providing proof of satisfactory completion of continuing education, workshops, or other training programs approved by the Department that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>At least 6 hours of training within the first year, and 12 hours thereafter within the 3-year term for certified consultants; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>At least 2 hours of training within the first year, and 6 hours thereafter within the 3-year term for certified farm operators;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Complying with all requirements on the preparation of a nutrient management plan; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Complying with all other requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An individual who fails to renew the certification may be required to take another certification examination as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="License Application."> <text>An applicant for a license to engage in the business of providing a nutrient management plan as provided by this chapter shall do the following:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Submit to the Department an application on the form the Department requires;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Pay, except for a government agency, the applicable fee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Have at least one individual who is a certified nutrient management consultant as provided by this chapter working under the license; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Agree to comply with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="License Renewal."> <text>A license is issued for 1 year and expires unless the applicant renews the license for a 3-year term and qualifies by:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Submitting a renewal application on a form the Department requires;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Except for a government agency, paying a renewal fee to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Having a minimum of one individual who is a certified nutrient management consultant as provided by this chapter working under the license; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Complying with the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>License Holder Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements. A person who holds a license under this chapter shall keep records, and file with the Department by September 30 of each year an annual activity report covering the previous year (July 1 through June 30) that contains the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name and number of the license holder;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Name of the certified nutrient management consultant or consultants employed between the previous July 1 and June 30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Number of nutrient management plans completed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Acreage covered by the plan and by county and State watershed codes for this acreage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Information Concerning the Phosphorus Management Tool.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>As provided in §B(2) and (3) of this regulation, a license holder or a certified consultant who is not operating under a license shall file a report with the Department that includes information relating to nutrient management plans developed for operations which have soils with a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or above.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The report shall include information that the Department determines necessary to evaluate the implementation of the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C2.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The report shall be filed annually on a form developed by the Department not later than September 30th.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Department shall maintain the information provided in the report in a manner that protects the identity of the person for whom the plan was prepared and that person’s personal information.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Information related to soil test phosphorus</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>As provided in §C(2)—(4) of this regulation, a license holder or a certified consultant who is not operating under a license shall file a report with the Department that includes field or management-unit information relating to phosphorus levels in the soil determined by a soil analysis conducted in accordance with COMAR 15.20.08.05D related to nutrient management plans developed in accordance with COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The report shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Soil test phosphorus levels for each field or management unit in the nutrient management plan and expressed in terms of the Fertility Index Value;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Acreage associated with a specific soil analysis and field or management unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The county in which the field or management unit is located; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Other information that the Department considers necessary to evaluate soil phosphorus data.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The report shall be filed on a form developed by the Department not later than September 30, 2015 and every sixth year thereafter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The report may not include any information identifying the person or specific operation about whom the report is prepared.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>List of Reported Operations. Concurrent with the report required under §C of this regulation, a license holder or a certified consultant who is not operating under a license shall file a separate report with the Department that includes the names of the persons, farm names, as applicable, and addresses of those operations for which soil phosphorus data has been provided to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Nutrient Management License Holder Record-Keeping Requirements. A license holder shall keep:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A copy of any nutrient management plan prepared under this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Records with the following information if the information is not already contained in a plan:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Consultant's name and certification and license number,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Landowner's or operator's name and address,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Location of the land, including county and watershed code,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Total acres of land for nutrient application, including acres of each crop or land cover,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Date of the initial plan and subsequent revisions,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Soil analysis for each field,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Organic waste analysis,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Expected crop yields by field, and basis used for calculations,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Recommended nutrient rates for each field and crop, including application time and methods to be used,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Any adjustment of recommendations due to limitations, which shall be justified and documented, and,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Any other instructions or suggestions resulting in plan modification; and,</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Required records for at least 5 years and make them available to the Department upon request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Denial, Suspension, or Revocation of Certificate or License."> <text>After the opportunity for a hearing, the Department may deny, suspend, or revoke the certification or license of any person who violates any of the regulatory requirements of this chapter, including:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Providing misleading, false, or fraudulent information in applying for a certificate or license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Providing the Department with any misleading, false, or fraudulent report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Offering or preparing a certified nutrient management plan as provided by this chapter without a certificate and license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Offering or preparing a nutrient management plan that does not comply with the requirements of COMAR 15.20.08;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Failing to have a minimum of one certified nutrient management consultant working under a license;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Failing to promptly provide any report or to allow the Department access to inspect any record required to be kept by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Failing to meet continuing education requirements.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Administrative Penalty."> <text>In addition to any other penalty authorized under this chapter, a person who holds a license or certificate issued under this chapter that fails to meet any of the reporting requirements and deadlines set forth in Regulation .11 of this chapter is subject to an administrative penalty not exceeding $250.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Reinstatement of Certificate or License after Disciplinary Action."> <text>Upon application for a certificate, any person whose certificate is denied, suspended, or revoked may be required to retake the certification examination.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§8-801—8-806, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.15 adopted as an emergency provision effective October 13, 1992 (19:22 Md. R. 1981); emergency status extended at 20:3 Md. R. 255; adopted permanently effective March 15, 1993 (20:5 Md. R. 515)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A amended effective January 27, 1997 (24:2 Md. R. 116)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective May 29, 2000 (27:10 Md. R. 967)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A,B amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 694)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08A amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10A amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective June 8, 2015 (42:11 Md. R. 726)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12D amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13 recodified to be Regulation .14 and new Regulation .13 adopted effective October 5, 2020 (47:20 Md. R. 876)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Manure Transportation Project"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter describes the Department's voluntary Manure Transportation Project required by the Maryland Water Quality Improvement Act of 1998. The Project is intended to facilitate the transport of poultry manure and livestock manure from farms in all areas of the State that are subject to phosphorus overenrichment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This Project is intended to encourage voluntary participation to remove or redirect at least 20 percent of the poultry manure produced in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Alternative use” means using poultry manure or other animal manure in environmentally acceptable ways, as determined by the Department, other than by direct land application in an unprocessed form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Alternative use operation” means a person or entity that uses or processes poultry or livestock manure in environmentally acceptable ways, as determined by the Department, other than by direct land application in an unprocessed form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Commercial poultry producer” means an entity that contracts with a farmer to raise poultry for the producer on property owned or leased by the farmer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Cost-share” means a grant from the Department for the purpose of handling and transporting manure from a farm in any area of the State that the Department determines is subject to phosphorus overenrichment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Eligible cost” means a cost that the Department determines is necessary for the transport and handling of manure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Eligible receiving operation” means a person who land-applies manure and:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Receives manure from an eligible sending operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has fields containing soils that are not phosphorus overenriched; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has a certified nutrient management plan for the operation that allows manure to be applied as a source of primary nutrients to these fields.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Eligible sending operation” means a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Either is:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A poultry grower under contract with a commercial poultry producer participating in the Project; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A person who raises or manages livestock; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has land identified as being phosphorus overenriched or cannot use for crop production all of the generated manure because the person has:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>No cropland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>An insufficient amount of cropland near the production site to apply the manure according to a nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Fast Track Process” means an expedited process by which an eligible person applies for cost-share to transport manure under certain conditions including, but not limited to, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All receiving fields have soil phosphorus FIV less than 101 (or an equivalent value); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Manure is applied only to certain crops, at certain rates and times, consistent with the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-D, or as determined by the Department in consultation with the University of Maryland Extension.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Fertility index value” or “FIV” means an index used to describe the relative availability of a nutrient to a plant or crop.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Livestock manure” means manure generated from farm animals other than broiler chickens raised under contract for a commercial poultry producer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Manure” means the fecal and urinary excretion of poultry and livestock, including poultry litter and materials used as bedding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Manure broker” or “broker” means a person approved by the Department who moves, arranges, or otherwise acts as the intermediary in the movement of manure from an eligible sending operation to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An eligible receiving operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A person who can utilize manure for an alternative use; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A person outside the Chesapeake Bay watershed pursuant to the Poultry Manure Rail Export Process.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Nutrient management plan” means a plan prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal manure, fertilizer, biosolids, or other plant nutrients in order to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimize nutrient loss or runoff; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Maintain the productivity of soil when growing agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Phosphorus overenriched soil” means soil with a phosphorus FIV value of 150 or greater (or an equivalent test result value for phosphorus) and poses a water quality risk as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>"Poultry grower” means a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is under contract with a commercial poultry producer; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Generates manure from poultry.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Poultry manure” means manure generated by a poultry grower under contract with a commercial poultry producer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Primary nutrients” means a plant food that is essential for normal plant growth and includes nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Producer” means a person who generates manure from animal production.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Production site” means the portion of the poultry grower’s or livestock producer’s land encompassing the operation’s manure generation and storage facilities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Project” means the Manure Transportation Project Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Stackable manure” or “stacked manure” means manure having less than an average of 60 percent moisture and having physical properties to be unloaded and arranged into a stable pile.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Standard Process” means a process by which an eligible person applies for cost-share to transport manure under certain conditions including, but not limited to, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All receiving fields have soil phosphorus FIV less than 150 (or an equivalent value);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The manure is applied according to a certified nutrient management plan excepting, however, fields having phosphorus FIV range from 101 to 149 (or equivalent values), for which the operator must follow manure recommendations using phosphorus as a limiting factor; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The applicant submits to the Department the receiving operation’s current certified nutrient management plan so that the Department can verify the manure recommendations and soil phosphorus levels.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Poultry and Livestock Cost-Share Programs."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Eligible Persons. The following persons, using the applicable Departmental forms, may apply to receive cost-share funds under the Department’s Poultry and Livestock Cost-Share Programs:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An eligible receiving operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A broker who meets the requirements of Regulation .13 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An alternative use operation that meets the requirements of Regulation .09 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Poultry Cost-Share Program. To participate in the Department’s Poultry Cost-Share Program, an eligible person may utilize:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department’s Standard Process, as described in Regulation .07, for the transport of poultry manure to an eligible receiving operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department’s Fast Track Process, as described in Regulation .08, for the transport of poultry manure to an eligible receiving operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department’s Alternative Use Process, as described in Regulation .09, for the transport of poultry manure to approved alternative uses; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Department’s Poultry Manure Rail Export Process, as described in Regulation .10, for the transport of poultry manure to farms outside the Chesapeake Bay watershed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Livestock Cost-Share Program. To participate in the Department’s Livestock Cost-Share Program, an eligible person may utilize:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department’s Standard process, as described in Regulation .07, for the transport of livestock manure to an eligible receiving operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department’s Fast Track process, as described in Regulation .08, for the transport of livestock manure to an eligible receiving operation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department’s Alternative Use process, as described in Regulation .09, for the transport of livestock manure to approved alternative uses.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Biosecurity and Other Environmental Safeguards."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Biosecurity Requirements. A person transporting manure under the Project shall comply with all applicable Departmental biosecurity and animal health requirements, including the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For poultry and livestock manure:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A transport vehicle shall contain the livestock or poultry manure within the cargo area or tank without any loss of material during transport on a public road or railway; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>All equipment used to handle or transport manure shall be cleansed, washed, and disinfected before operating this equipment on or near another poultry or livestock operation; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For poultry manure only, in addition to the requirements referenced in §A(1) of this regulation, a person transporting poultry manure:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Shall ensure that all poultry manure is covered while being moved on a public road, highway, or railway;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Shall ensure that a truck-mounted or a tractor-drawn spreader is covered during the movement of this equipment from one farm to another unless the farms are contiguous; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>May not transport manure containing dead birds that are not completely composted.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Delivery Site Requirements. The person receiving the manure, including an eligible receiving operation, a broker, or a person using manure for an alternative use, shall provide a delivery site for the off-loading of the manure that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is safe; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Does not pose any undue environmental risk to water quality as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Manure Handling Upon Receipt. The operator of the eligible receiving operation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Apply liquid manure upon receipt;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Apply stackable manure within 7 days of its receipt; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Stockpile or store manure in a manner that protects it from rainfall, runoff, and leaching.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Storage Requirements. An alternative use operation or a broker may store transported manure in a manner approved by the Department if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Storage or containment does not result in spillage, leakage, or runoff of manure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All applicable permits or approvals to operate a facility to store or stockpile manure are secured; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A bond or security has been obtained, as provided under Regulation .14 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Minimum Distance Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person is not eligible to receive funds for transporting manure under the Project unless:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For poultry manure, the production or storage site is at least 7 miles from the location where the manure may be used in a manner consistent with this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For livestock manure, the production or storage site is at least 1 mile from the location where the manure may be used in a manner consistent with this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A producer may receive funds for transporting manure generated in the producer’s own operation if the producer is transporting manure to a location that meets the minimum distance set forth in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Manure Testing Requirement."> <text>A person may not transport poultry or livestock manure under the Project unless it has been tested within 2 years of the transport date. If the manure has not been tested within this 2-year period, the person may seek financial assistance from the Department to have it tested in accordance with Departmental procedures. If the person is a broker, the person shall provide the testing information to the person receiving the manure.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Standard Cost-Share Process."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Applications to Transport Manure.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To receive cost-share funds for transporting manure under the Standard Process, the applicant shall submit a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental application, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If a broker is submitting the application, the broker shall submit the application directly to the Department for review and approval; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If an eligible receiving operation is submitting the application, the operation shall submit the application to the local soil conservation district for a preliminary review which, following this review, will forward the application to the Department for final review and approval.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicant shall provide the following information on the application:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The applicant’s name, address, telephone number, and email address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The eligible receiving operation’s name and address (if different than the applicant’s name and address);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For poultry manure:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The name and address of the eligible sending operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The name of the commercial poultry producer that contracts with the eligible sending operation to grow poultry;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>For livestock manure, the name and address of the eligible sending operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A signed statement by the owner or operator of the receiving operation acknowledging that manure transported under the Standard Process will be applied only to fields that are not phosphorus overenriched in accordance with the certified nutrient management plan, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>For soil testing less than 101 for phosphorus on the fertility index value, a person shall use manure according to a nutrient management plan using nitrogen or phosphorus as a limiting factor; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>For soil testing 101 to 149 for phosphorus on the fertility index value, a person shall use manure according to a nutrient management plan using phosphorus as a limiting factor; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Certain information from the current certified nutrient management plan for the eligible receiving operation, including organic recommendations, soil tests, and manure analysis.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Prior Approval of Application Required. A person may not transport manure under the Standard Process until the person’s application has been approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Determining Eligible Costs. The applicant shall submit transport records to the Department, as specified in the claim for payment forms, for the Department to determine eligible costs.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Fast Track Process."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Application to Transport Manure. To receive cost-share funds for transporting manure under the Fast Track Process, the applicant, whether a broker or an eligible receiving operation, shall submit a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental application directly to the Department that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant’s name, address, telephone number, and email address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The eligible receiving operation’s name and address (if different than the applicant’s name and address);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For poultry manure:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name and address of the eligible sending operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The name of the commercial poultry producer that contracts with the eligible sending operation to grow poultry;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>For livestock manure, the name and address of the eligible sending operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The date of the eligible receiving operation’s most recent nutrient management plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The name and certification number of the consultant who prepared the plan for the eligible receiving operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A signed statement by the applicant to comply with the applicable Fast Track Process rules;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>A signed statement by the eligible receiving operation, if different than the applicant, to comply with the applicable Fast Track Process rules;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Information pertaining to the fields on which the manure will be applied, including the field’s property account identification number, its acreage, the crop to be raised, and the soil phosphorus data from the operation’s most recent nutrient management plan; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Copies of soil tests and field maps.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Prior Approval of Application Not Required. A person may transport manure under the Fast Track Process before the person’s application has been approved by the Department. The Department, however, may deny the person’s claim for payment if the requirements of this chapter are not met.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Eligible Soils. A person may transport manure under the Fast Track Process only to an eligible receiving operation with fields that test less than 101 for phosphorus on the fertility index value (or an equivalent value).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Eligible Crops and Manure Application Rates. The operator of the eligible receiving operation may apply manure transported under the Fast Track Process only to specified crops and at rates as determined by the Department after consultation with the University of Maryland Extension.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Determining Eligible Costs. The applicant shall submit transport records to the Department, as specified in the claim for payment forms, for the Department to determine eligible costs.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Alternative Use Process."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Application to Transport Manure. To receive cost-share funds for transporting manure under the Alternative Use Process, the applicant, whether a broker or an alternatives use operation, shall submit directly to the Department a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental application that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant’s name, address, telephone number, and email address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For poultry manure:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The farm name of the eligible sending operation and the owner or operator’s name and address; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The name of the commercial poultry producer that contracts with the eligible sending operation to grow poultry;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For livestock manure, the name of the eligible sending operation and the owner or operator’s name and address; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The name and address of the approved alternative use operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Participation Requirements for Alternative Use Operations. To participate as an alternative use operation under the Project, the operation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submit the following information to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Documentation regarding planned use or treatment of any nutrient-enriched byproducts produced from the processing of manure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Documentation of proof of compliance and evidence that all applicable permits or approvals to operate a facility have been obtained;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Documentation, if not covered by a permit, regarding efforts to minimize environmental impacts during the manufacturing or processing of products containing manure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The location of a delivery site for the off-loading of manure that is safe and does not pose any undue environmental risk to water quality as determined by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The location and manner of storing or stockpiling manure that protects it from rainfall, runoff, and leaching; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Documentation that a performance bond or other security, as provided under Regulation .14 of this chapter, has been obtained; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Agree to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Obtain manure only from an eligible sending operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Use manure in an environmentally acceptable way, as determined by the Department, other than by direct land application in an unprocessed form;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Handle and transport manure in accordance with all biosecurity and environmental safeguards as provided under Regulation .04 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Allow a Department representative, during normal business hours, to inspect and to have access to the stockpile, storage area, and place of business where records are kept, to determine compliance; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Maintain inventory records for at least 3 years from date of payment, showing:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The name and location of the producer, including the property account identification number used by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation to indicate the location of the producer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The amount of manure obtained from that producer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The amount of manure stored daily and amount of each type of product or byproduct processed or produced daily;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>The amount of commodities or additives blended or processed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>The name of the receiver or receivers of the product or byproduct produced, including address, telephone number, and location; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vi)"> <text>The amount of product or byproduct shipped to each receiver.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Cost-share rates are established in Regulation .11 of this chapter, and the payment to an alternative use participant shall be based on:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Transporting manure either:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>From an eligible sending operation to an alternative use facility; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>From the alternative use facility to the receiver of the processed product; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The lesser of the manure tonnage from the sending operation to the alternative use facility, or the tonnage from the alternative use facility to the receiver of the processed product.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Poultry Manure Rail Export Process."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Application to Transport Manure. To receive cost-share funds for transporting manure under the Poultry Manure Rail Export Process, a person shall submit to the Department a signed, complete, accurate, and legible Departmental application that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant’s name, address, telephone number, and email address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The name and address of the eligible sending operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The name of the commercial poultry producer that contracts with the eligible sending operation to grow poultry;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A signed statement by the applicant to comply with the applicable Poultry Manure Rail Export Process rules;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The location and distance between the railway depots at which the manure will be:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Loaded onto rail cars before being shipped outside the Chesapeake Bay watershed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Unloaded from rail cars after being shipped outside the Chesapeake Bay watershed;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A statement that all applicable permits or approvals necessary for shipping the manure by rail have been obtained;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Following shipment by rail outside the Chesapeake Bay watershed, the location or facility at which the manure will be stored before being transported to farms for land application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Documentation that a performance bond or other security, as provided under Regulation .14 of this chapter, has been obtained.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person transporting manure under the Poultry Manure Rail Export Process shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtain manure only from an eligible sending operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Handle and transport manure safely to prevent spillage and combustion, and in accordance with all biosecurity and environmental safeguards provided under Regulation .04 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Allow a Department representative, during normal business hours, to inspect and to have access to the place of business where records are kept, to determine compliance;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Obtain a performance bond or other security, as provided under Regulation .14 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Maintain inventory records for at least 3 years from date of payment, showing:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the sending operation that provided the poultry manure, including address, telephone number, and property account identification number used by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation to indicate the location of the producer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The amount of poultry manure obtained from that producer; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The amount of poultry manure shipped under the Poultry Manure Rail Export Process.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Cost-share rates are established in Regulation .11 of this chapter, and the payment to a poultry manure export participant shall be based on transporting poultry manure from the railway depot in Maryland to the depot outside the Chesapeake watershed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Cost-Share Rate."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Expenses eligible for State cost-share for an applicant shall be established by the Department based on the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Either mileage or distance, or both, of manure transported;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Amount of manure transported;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Mode of transportation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Cost of analyzing manure before transporting;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Cost of loading manure on transportation equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Cost of hauling manure from a producing or storage area to a receiving area; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Amount of matching cost-share funds to transport poultry manure provided by a commercial poultry producer for eligible costs, and the State’s share as determined by the Department, which will consider factors including but not limited to the following when establishing the match:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The amount of funds a commercial poultry producer has committed to provide during the fiscal year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The amount of State funds available for the Project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Demand for Project funds.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may provide additional cost-share funds for the transport of poultry manure from Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, or Worcester counties to eligible fields for land application or for alternative uses.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The maximum amount of eligible cost-share for transportation of poultry manure under this chapter is the total of eligible expenses.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The maximum amount of cost-share under this chapter for the transport of animal manure other than poultry manure is up to 87.5 percent of eligible expenses.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may not provide cost-share for any repeated transportation of the same manure, unless a participant can successfully demonstrate to the Department that the transportation is:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>To or from a staging area or centralized collection facility; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Cost-effective.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If a manure broker stockpiles or stores manure, the broker may apply for cost-share funds for transporting the manure. However, the manure broker is eligible only to receive payment for the mileage which represents the most direct transport route from the eligible sending operation to the eligible receiving operation or alternative use facility.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Commercial Poultry Producer Participation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall enter into a written agreement with each commercial poultry producer participating in the Project. The written agreement shall set forth, at a minimum, the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The responsibilities of the participating commercial poultry producer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The responsibilities of the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The amount of financial support for payment of eligible costs that the participating commercial poultry producer shall provide to the Project on an annual basis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The manner by which the Department shall calculate and collect eligible costs from the participating commercial poultry producer; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An express commitment by the participating commercial poultry producer that it may not:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Pass on part or all of its Project participation costs to any poultry grower with which it contracts; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Penalize a poultry grower for participating in the Project.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall maintain the written agreements and all supporting documentation in a centralized location, open to public inspection during regular business hours.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Cost-Share Program — Manure Broker Participation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Poultry Manure. To receive cost-share for transporting poultry manure, a manure broker participating in the Project shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtain manure only from an eligible sending operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Unless storing the manure as provided in §A(3) of this regulation, directly transport the manure only to an eligible receiving operation, an alternative use facility, or a person outside the Chesapeake Bay watershed under the Poultry Manure Rail Export Process;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If unable to transport the manure as provided in §A(2) of this regulation, stockpile or store the manure as provided in Regulation .04 of this chapter in a manner that protects the manure from rainfall, runoff, or leaching;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Maintain for a minimum of 3 years from date of transport inventory records which show:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the eligible sending operation and the amount of manure obtained from that person;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the manure is land-applied, the name of the eligible receiving operation and the amount of manure transported to that person; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The amount of manure stored or stockpiled;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Allow the Department to review inventory records during normal business hours;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Obtain all applicable permits or approvals to operate a facility to store or stockpile; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Obtain a performance bond or other security, as provided under Regulation .14 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Livestock Manure. To receive cost-share for transporting livestock manure, a manure broker participating in the Project shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtain manure only from an eligible sending operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Directly transport the manure only to an eligible receiving operation or alternative use facility unless the manure, if stackable, can be stockpiled or stored as provided in Regulation .04 or, if liquid, can be safely contained in a manner that does not pose an environmental threat to water quality;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintain for a minimum of 3 years from date of transport inventory records which show:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the sending operation and the amount of manure obtained from that person;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the manure is land-applied, the name of the receiving operation and the amount of manure transported to that person; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The amount of manure stored or stockpiled;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Allow the Department to review inventory records during normal business hours; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Obtain a performance bond or other security, as provided under Regulation .14 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Bond or Security."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The broker or alternative use operation shall file with the Department a bond, or other security, on a form satisfactory to the Department. The bond shall be payable to the Department, and the obligation of the bond shall be conditioned upon fulfilling the cost-share agreement and manure stockpiling and storage requirements provided in this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may waive the bonding and security requirements for a participant if the participant:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Stockpiles or stores 500 tons of manure or less; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has contingency plans to relocate the manure, which are provided and acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An acceptable security or bond is limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A bond in a form satisfactory to the Department and underwritten by a surety company authorized to do business in this State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A bank certified check, bank cashier's check, or bank treasurer's check equal to the required bond amount;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pledges of securities backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government, or bonds issued by the State, having a market value equal to the required bond amount; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An irrevocable letter of credit that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>In a form satisfactory to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Issued by a financial institution approved by the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Equivalent to the required bond; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Guaranteed to be available and payable directly to the State on demand, in the event of forfeiture.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The bond liability required under this regulation shall terminate 2 years after the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Participation in the Project ceases;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Stockpiling or storing manure ceases; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Bond is canceled.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The bond amount shall be the estimated cost of remediation if, in the event of forfeiture:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Manure must be removed from the stockpile or storage site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Manure must be protected from rainfall, runoff, and leaching, until such time that it can be removed from the stockpile or storage site because of failure to stockpile it in a manner approved by the Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The stockpile or storage site must be cleaned up or reclaimed because of failure to stockpile or store the manure in a manner approved by the Department, or as otherwise required under this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The bond amount shall be based on, but not limited to, the quantity of manure stockpiled or stored.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The obligation of the broker, an alternative use participant, and any corporate surety under the bond shall become due and payable, and all or any part of any cash or securities shall be applied to payment of the costs of remediation, including, but not limited to, stabilizing, protecting, and removing the manure, and cleaning up or reclaiming the storage site, if the Department has:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notified the broker or alternative use operation and any corporate surety that the requirements imposed under this chapter for stockpiling or storing manure have not been fulfilled, and specified in the notice the particular deficiencies;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Given the broker or alternative use operation and any corporate surety a reasonable opportunity to correct the deficiencies; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Determined that, at the end of a reasonable length of time, some or all of the deficiencies specified remain uncorrected.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Project — Annual Reporting."> <text>On or before July 1 of each year, the Department shall submit to the General Assembly a report detailing the:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Participation levels in the Project;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Total amount of manure transported to and from each county in the State; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Amount of funds distributed by the State and each participating commercial poultry producer for the preceding year.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Compliance Provisions."> <text>If a person fails to comply with the requirements of this chapter, or any agreement established under this chapter, the Department may:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Exclude that person from future participation in the Project; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Hold the person liable for the full amount of funds paid.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §8-704.2, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.07 adopted as an emergency provision effective January 7, 1999 (26:3 Md. R. 174); adopted permanently effective April 5, 1999 (26:7 Md. R. 546)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective July 17, 2000 (27:16 Md. R. 1520); revised permanently effective October 30, 2000 (27:21 Md. R. 1977)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective December 1, 2000 (27:26 Md. R. 2356); revised permanently effective March 19, 2001 (28:5 Md. R. 552)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective March 24, 2004 (31:8 Md. R. 644); revised permanently effective June 21, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 913)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective February 15, 2016 (43:3 Md. R. 273)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.10 repealed and new Regulations .01—.16 adopted as an emergency provision effective May 29, 2020 (47:13 Md. R. 639); adopted permanently effective November 2, 2020 (47:22 Md. R. 936)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="06" heading="Nutrient and Commercial Fertilizer Application Requirements for Agricultural Land"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter requires a person who applies nutrients to more than 10 acres of agricultural land, which that person owns or manages, to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Have an applicator voucher from the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Be a certified farm operator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Be a certified nutrient management consultant; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Hire a certified nutrient management consultant.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Agricultural Land.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Agricultural land” means more than 10 acres of land used to produce food, feed, fiber, sod, animals, plants, trees, or plants in containers, or for out-of-ground production.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Agricultural land” includes smaller, noncontiguous land parcels that total more than 10 acres.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Applicator” means a person who applies any type of nutrient, as defined by this chapter, to any crop, plant, or land intended to be planted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Applicator voucher” means documentation issued by the Department as proof that an individual has completed a required educational program, as defined by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Certified farm operator” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan solely for agricultural land that the individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Owns;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Operates; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has a legal interest in.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Certified nutrient management consultant” or “consultant” means an individual certified by the Department, under COMAR 15.20.04, to prepare a nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Commercial fertilizer” or “fertilizer” means a substance containing a recognized plant nutrient used for its plant nutrient content and designed for use, or claimed to have value, in promoting plant growth, except unmanipulated animal and vegetable manure, marl, lime, wood ashes, and gypsum.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Educational program” means a training program created or approved by the Department relating to nutrient application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Nutrient” means a fertilizer or any substance used to promote plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Nutrient application rate” means the quantity of primary nutrients, as total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), and soluble potash (K2O), recommended by a certified nutrient management consultant to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Supply crop or plant nutrient needs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Achieve realistic yield goals, as defined by COMAR 15.20.04.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Nutrient content” means the percentage of any primary nutrient, as total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O), in any type or source of plant nutrients.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Nutrient management plan” means a plan prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant or a certified farm operator to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal manure, fertilizer, biosolids, or other plant nutrients in order to protect water quality and maintain the productivity of soil in accordance with COMAR 15.20.08.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Person” means the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Supervision” means that a nutrient management consultant, a certified farm operator, or a person who holds a voucher is responsible for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Training and planning employee activities; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The application of nutrients.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Application of Nutrients to Agricultural Land."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who owns or operates agricultural land may not apply any nutrient to more than 10 acres of that land, unless that person:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Holds an applicator voucher from the Department verifying the completion of the Department's educational requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is a certified farm operator; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Is a certified nutrient management consultant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person who satisfactorily completes an approved educational program shall receive an applicator voucher from the Department. At least once every 3 years after obtaining a voucher, each voucher holder shall complete at least 2 hours of a Department-approved educational program in nutrient application or management.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall renew an applicator voucher for an individual who satisfactorily completes the educational requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="For-Hire Application of Nutrients to Agricultural Land."> <text>A person who for-hire applies nutrients to agricultural land shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Be a certified nutrient management consultant or work under the supervision of a consultant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Make available, upon request of the landowner or operator, documentation in the form of a certificate, work order, or other similar document, that the applicator is:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A certified nutrient management consultant, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Working under the supervision of a certified nutrient management consultant;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>On or after December 31, 2002, apply nutrients according to a nutrient management plan or have verification by the landowner or operator that the nutrient application complies with a nutrient management plan; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>On or after December 31, 2002, apply nutrients according to the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension recommendation rates when a nutrient management plan is not required.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements."> <text>A person who for-hire applies nutrients to agricultural land shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Keep records when applying nutrients, to document that the applicator is:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Certified by the Department as a nutrient management consultant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Certified as a nutrient management consultant by an entity with a reciprocal certification program with the Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Supervised by a person complying with requirements in §A(1)(a) or (b) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Make and keep for at least 3 years a record in a form approved by the Department that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The type and amount of nutrients applied to the plants or to the land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The crop acreage receiving a nutrient application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The location of the nutrient application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The timing of the application or applications; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An analysis of the nutrient content of any fertilizer applied to the plants, the land, or the crop acreage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Make available for inspection, at the Department's request, the records required by §A(1) and (2) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Denial, Suspension, or Revocation of Certificate or Voucher."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may deny, suspend, or revoke the certification or applicator voucher of a person who violates any requirement of this chapter, including:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Providing misleading, false, or fraudulent information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Failing to meet the educational or continuing education requirements of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Failing to apply, or to supervise the application of, nutrients as required by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person whose certification or application voucher is denied, suspended, or revoked shall be given an opportunity for a hearing by the Secretary before any denial, suspension, or revocation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§8-801—8-806, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 29, 2000 (27:10 Md. R. 967)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01A amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692); October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692); October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 repealed effective October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="07" heading="Agricultural Operation Nutrient Management Plan Requirements"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter applies to a farm or agricultural operator and requires the operator to develop and implement nitrogen-based and phosphorus-based nutrient management plans for a farm or agricultural operation by certain deadlines.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Incorporation by Reference."> <text>The performance and technical standards provided in this subtitle are found in the Department of Agriculture's Maryland Nutrient Management Manual (November 1999), Supplement No. 1 (September 2000), Supplement No. 2 (November 2001), Supplement No. 3 (September 2004), Supplement No. 4 (November 2005), Supplement No. 5 (November 2006), Supplement No. 6 (May 2009), Supplement No. 7 (May 2012), Supplement No. 8 (August 2016), Supplement No. 9 (June 2022), and Supplement No. 10 (July 2024), which are incorporated by reference.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural operation” means a business or activity that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Tills, crops, keeps, pastures, or produces an agricultural product, including livestock, poultry, plants, trees, sod, food, feed, or fiber by in-ground, out-of-ground, container, or other culture; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has a gross annual income of $2,500 or more, or has eight or more animal units.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Animal unit” means the unit of measure equivalent to 1,000 pounds of live animal weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Annual implementation report” means the end of cropping season report that an operator, using a Department-created form, must file with the Department by March 1 of each year, providing certain information about the agricultural operation for the previous calendar year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Biosolids” means any thickened liquid, suspended or settled solid, or dried residue extracted from sewage at a sewage treatment plant, including domestic sewage, that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contains recognized plant nutrients, or liquid byproducts, that meet federal and State regulations for beneficial use by land application or other methods; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is regulated as sewage sludge pursuant to the Environment Article, §9-201 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Certified farm operator” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan solely for agricultural land that the individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Owns;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Operates; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has a legal interest in.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Certified nutrient management consultant” or “consultant” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Chemical Fertilizer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Chemical fertilizer” means a manufactured or blended nutrient source, usually in granular or liquid form, containing a guaranteed analysis of primary nutrients.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Chemical fertilizer does not include a product blended from all natural organic fertilizer sources.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture or its designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Expected crop yield” means a realistic crop yield for the agricultural operation determined by using yield records or soil productivity information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Fertilizer” means a substance containing any recognized primary plant nutrient used for its plant nutrient content and designed for use in promoting plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Manure management” means operations and conditions specific to an agricultural operation that has animals, or uses animal manure or waste nutrients from animal production. The purpose of manure management in nutrient management planning is to improve efficiency and effectiveness of nutrient utilization and to minimize the potential for nutrient loss from the management of animals or their manure and associated waste nutrients. Guidelines for manure management are described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section III-C.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Nutrient management plan” means a plan prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal manure, fertilizer, biosolids, or other plant nutrients in order to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimize nutrient loss or runoff; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Maintain the productivity of soil when growing agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Operator” means a person who manages or owns an agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Person” means the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Plant production goal” means a statement of the estimated length of time that plants will be grown, and some appropriate measure of expected plant size, such as height or diameter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Primary nutrients” means a plant food that is essential for normal plant growth and includes total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), and soluble potash (K2O).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Nutrient Management Plan—Plan Development and Implementation Deadlines."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An operator shall develop and implement a nutrient management plan for the operator's agricultural operation, according to the following deadlines:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An operator who uses chemical fertilizer in an agricultural operation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Develop a nutrient management plan addressing both nitrogen and phosphorus as the limiting nutrients on that agricultural operation by December 31, 2001, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Implement the plan by December 31, 2002;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An operator who uses biosolids or animal manure in an agricultural operation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Develop a nutrient management plan addressing nitrogen as the limiting nutrient on that agricultural operation by December 31, 2001, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Implement the plan by December 31, 2002;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An operator who uses biosolids or animal manure in an agricultural operation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Develop a nutrient management plan addressing both nitrogen and phosphorus as the limiting nutrients on that agricultural operation by July 1, 2004, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Implement the plan by July 1, 2005; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An operator who uses a combination of chemical fertilizer, biosolids, and animal manure in an agricultural operation shall comply with the deadlines in §A(2) and (3) of this regulation if that operator uses biosolids or animal manure on a minimum of 10 acres, or 50 percent of an agricultural operation, whichever is less. Phosphorus application rates under this subsection shall follow Cooperative Extension recommendation rates on individual fields where chemical fertilizer is the only nutrient source.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An operator who cannot obtain the services of a certified nutrient management consultant to develop a nutrient management plan to meet the deadlines required in §A of this regulation shall be in compliance if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The operator provides to the Department proof that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A good faith effort was made to obtain the services of a certified nutrient management consultant at least 60 days before the applicable deadline, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Circumstances beyond the reasonable control of the operator prevented the plan from being completed by the deadline; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The operator provides on a Department form a signed statement from a certified nutrient management consultant indicating:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The date and time the consultant was contacted by the operator to request plan development,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>That the consultant was unavailable, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A reasonable time frame needed for the development of a plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An operator who meets the conditions in §B of this regulation, but who does not complete plan development within 1 year of the deadlines set forth in §A of this regulation, is in violation of §A requirements for plan development and implementation, unless the Department determines noncompliance to be attributed to circumstances beyond the control of that operator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Upon application to the Department on a Department form, an operator may request an exemption from the requirements of this chapter for certain activities, including research, education, and demonstration, if the operator:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Documents the proposed activity and provides this information to the Department prior to its implementation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Ensures that impacts on water quality are minimized; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Receives written notice of approval for the activity from the Department prior to the start of the activity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>In determining whether a particular application for exemption will be approved, the Department shall consider the following factors:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Whether the activity is temporary and its time frame defined;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Whether a research activity is managed, sponsored, or affiliated with an accredited educational institution or research facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Whether the activity's objectives help to advance knowledge about the management of nutrients; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The area and location of the activity in relation to the operation's overall size and potential impacts on adjacent properties, water quality, and natural resources.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If an operator is subject to this chapter only because the operator earns $2,500 or more from the occasional sale of agricultural products as a result of participating in a 4-H or other agricultural youth organization project, the operator is exempt if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Verification of active participation in the 4-H or agricultural youth organization activity is made available upon request to the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The activity is conducted so the potential for nutrient loss or runoff is minimized.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A nutrient management plan required by this chapter shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All agricultural practices that relate to nutrient use, including, but not limited to, tillage, cropping, pasturage, or production of any agricultural product; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Identification, management, and disposition of all primary nutrients produced on, or imported to, the agricultural operation, including land application, off-site transportation, composting, or processing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Nutrient Management Plan Implementation Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An operator who uses chemical fertilizer, animal manure, or biosolids, as provided in Regulation .04A of this chapter, shall have a nutrient management plan that shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant or by the farm operator, if certified in accordance with this subtitle;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Be prepared according to the schedule set forth in Regulation .04A or B of this chapter by using the limiting nutrient determination described in COMAR 15.20.08.05E; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Address the following existing factors:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All aspects of the agricultural operation, including tillage, cropping, pasture, or production of an agricultural product, such as plants, trees, sod, food, feed, animals, and fiber;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Identification, management, and disposition of all primary nutrients produced on, imported to, and exported from the agricultural operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Manure management conditions that protect water quality and improve manure utilization, and:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Encompass all land where animals are kept and all land used for manure storage, treatment, or utilization that is under the control of the agricultural operator,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Contain or manage manure to minimize the potential for nutrient loss or runoff before export to other agricultural operations or receiving facilities when agricultural operators have insufficient land to utilize manure and waste nutrients associated with animal production, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Minimize the potential for nutrient loss or runoff prior, during, and after application when an agricultural operator imports animal manure or waste nutrients associated with animal production for nutrient application on the operator's land.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A nutrient management plan shall contain recommendations for an agricultural operation, as provided in COMAR 15.20.08.05B—I, for the management of fertilizer inputs and other nutrient sources. A recommendation shall be based on the best information available at the time a plan is prepared, as determined by the Department on a case-by-case basis. When implementing a plan, the operator may not exceed recommended nutrient application rates. The operator shall follow all other recommendations in the plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Plan Adjustments.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An operator may adjust the nutrient management recommendation in a plan for any of the following reasons:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Occurrence of a condition beyond the control of the operator, including a natural disaster, unanticipated weather condition, animal mortality, or disease; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Occurrence of unanticipated conditions, such as market changes or economic factors that may cause modification of the agricultural operation, or other limitations, such as equipment calibration limits, or limits on the availability of commercial fertilizer blends to reasonably meet nutrient management recommendations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any adjustment shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Consistent with plan criteria; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Documented under Regulation .06B of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An adjustment by the operator shall require that a revision to a nutrient management plan be made and documented when the adjustment is necessary because either new land or planting area, or animals, are not addressed in the current nutrient management plan and they exceed the thresholds described in §D of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Plan Maintenance, Updates, and Revisions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §D(2) of this regulation, at least once every 3 years from the date that the current plan was prepared, the operator shall revise and update the plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An operator who uses only commercial fertilizer may use the current plan beyond the 3 years if all of the following conditions apply:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The operator complies with the soil testing requirements set forth in COMAR 15.20.08.05D, including any changes to plan requirements under this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The soil test analysis verifies that the phosphorus fertility index value (FIV) is 100 or less; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>There have been no significant changes to the operation, including the crop rotation, management and tillage systems, and crop yield goals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Changes in an agricultural operation may require the operator to modify or update a plan when the information in the plan is inadequate, incomplete, or fails to address a change. These changes include a change:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>To the planned crop or cropping rotation, or introduction of a new crop when it is not currently addressed in an existing nutrient management plan, unless the new crop will have fertility management similar to that crop originally planned;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Of nutrient source or soil test results that indicate a change in nutrient recommendations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Of 10 percent or greater in acreage managed, or 30 acres, whichever is less; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>In the average annual number of animal units of 10 percent or greater, when the resultant manure production will require significant management adjustments.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An operator shall maintain a plan to meet plan objectives, including implementation of best management practices, strategies, or a phased-in approach identified in the plan to achieve soil fertility within optimal ranges.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Operator Reporting Requirements — Plan Development.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An operator shall submit to the Department a summary of the nutrient management plan for the agricultural operation in a form that the Department requires when it is first developed to meet requirements of this chapter, according to the deadlines provided by Regulation .04A and B of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A nutrient management plan submitted to the Department by an operator for the first time shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A statement agreeing to cooperate with the Department to establish a reasonable time to evaluate compliance with the plan, by reviewing records and visiting the farm site or sites, as provided in §B(2) of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Descriptive information of the agricultural operation provided on a Department form, including the owner or operator, location of the operation, type of agricultural operation, and name of the individual preparing the plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A summary section of the plan indicating all nutrient recommendations during the plan period, as provided by COMAR 15.20.08.04F;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Soil analysis information; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A clearly recognizable map or aerial photograph identifying location and boundaries of the agricultural operation, individual field boundaries or management units, and acreage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Following the first submission of required nutrient management plan information to the Department, all operators subject to this chapter shall file by March 1 of each year an annual implementation report. The report shall be submitted on a form that the Department requires, and shall include, but not be limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A summary of basic information identifying the operator and characterizing the farm operation to include any changes in information on the agricultural operation that was provided in the reporting form for the first submitted plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Total acreage managed under a nutrient management plan by crop and total nutrients applied by crop;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the operator, in conjunction with the agricultural operation, uses or produces animal manure, the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The amount of animal manure imported to or exported from the operator’s farm;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>For any animal manure that was imported, including manure received through a manure broker, the name and location of the sending farm; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>For any animal manure that was exported, the name and location of the farm, alternative use facility, or manure broker that received the manure; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A statement verifying that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The information provided is true and accurate; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A valid nutrient management plan will be followed during the current cropping season and upcoming cropping year.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Department shall keep, and shall protect the confidentiality of, all nutrient management plan information submitted, so as to protect the identity of the person for whom the plan was developed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Operator Record-Keeping Requirements — Plan Implementation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department may periodically review records of an agricultural operator solely to determine if a nutrient management plan is implemented in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. The Department shall prioritize its enforcement efforts against those operations for which the Department has not received soil test phosphorus levels as required by COMAR 15.20.04.11.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When reviewing an operator's records, the Department shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Arrange a meeting with the operator at a reasonable time and location, that allows the property owner or operator to be present, with a minimum of 48 hours prior notice; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Conduct the evaluation in a manner that minimizes any inconvenience to the operator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A person operating a farm who fails to cooperate with the Department's request to conduct a site visit or review a nutrient management plan and records relating to the plan is subject to the penalties provided in Regulation .07 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Except as provided in this section, an operator subject to this chapter shall retain for 3 years the following records:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any nutrient management plan prepared for an agricultural operation, as required under this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Soil analysis results for an agricultural operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For agricultural crops produced or harvested annually, specific field or management unit yield information for the last 5 years which may include estimates based on volume or weight;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>For agricultural products that are not produced or harvested annually, or whose production is not managed based on an annual yield goal, such as nursery plants, information documenting nutrient use to meet specific production goals for three production cycles, or 3 years, whichever is less;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>For out-of-ground or container production, a description of production cycles and methods for all plants grown, including the following:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The length of the production cycle and primary nutrients applied in each growing cycle,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A description of substrates used, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>An analysis of organic materials used as a source of nutrients in the substrate;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Receipts related to the purchase of nutrients;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Documentation of the timing, rate, quantity, type or types, and analysis of nutrients used with reference to field location and number, or management unit, consistent with the production plan, site map, or aerial photograph provided in the nutrient management plan identifying that agricultural land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Manure analysis results when animal manure is used as a nutrient source, and information about the manure management system, if animals are part of the production unit or if animal manure is used as a nutrient source, but animals are not produced on the operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Monitoring information on runoff testing, including test results, as required for out-of-ground agricultural operations by COMAR 15.20.08.07D; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Documentation justifying any changes made to the nutrient management plan, as provided under Regulation .05C of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An operator shall keep the records required by §B(4)(a)—(h) of this regulation in a manner acceptable to the Department and shall make them available to the Department, upon request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Administrative Penalty for Failure to Have, Implement, or Comply with a Nutrient Management Plan."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An operator who does not have a nutrient management plan that meets the requirements of this chapter is subject to a written warning for a first violation. If an operator fails to obtain a nutrient management plan after a reasonable period of time following receipt of this notice, the operator is subject to an administrative penalty of not less than $100 and not more than $250 for this violation and any subsequent violation for failing to obtain the requisite nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An operator who fails to implement or otherwise comply with a nutrient management plan that meets the requirements of this chapter is subject to a written warning for a first violation. If, following a reasonable period of time from receipt of this notice, an operator fails to implement or otherwise comply with a plan that meets the requirements of this chapter, the operator is subject to an administrative penalty for a second or subsequent violation of not more than $500 for each violation, but not exceeding $5,000 per operator per calendar year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the violation involved the knowing application of phosphorus to a field or management unit where, because of the field or management unit’s soil characteristics, Department regulations prohibit the application of phosphorous, the administrative penalty imposed on an operator under §B of this regulation may not be less than $250.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Department shall consider the following when assessing a civil penalty under §B of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation, the extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator, but uncorrected by the violator, and the extent to which the violator exercised reasonable care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any actual harm to human health or to the environment or the natural resources of this State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The available technology and economic reasonableness of controlling, reducing, or eliminating the violation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The extent to which the current violation is part of a recurrent pattern of the same or similar type of violation committed by the violator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Each day that a violation of this chapter occurs, except for failing to meet a deadline for having a plan, as provided in Regulation .04A of this chapter, a separate violation under this chapter has occurred. Daily penalties do not continue to accrue as long as the operator takes reasonable steps to correct the violation. The maximum penalty accrued may not exceed $5,000 per operator per year for each nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Unless a stay has been granted, an operator against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this regulation shall promptly pay the penalty to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>If an operator violates any provision of this chapter, the Department may require repayment of Agricultural Water Quality Cost Share funds already disbursed to the operator for a project that an operator is required to maintain, and may deny or restrict future cost share payments to the operator under COMAR 15.01.05.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>If an operator fails to comply with the provisions of Regulation .04A of this chapter following the third citation by the Department, the violation shall be referred to the Maryland Department of the Environment for further action under COMAR 26.08.02.04.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>An operator may appeal the Department's decision to impose a penalty under Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Administrative Penalties for Failure to File Annual Implementation Report."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If a person fails to file an annual implementation report with the Department in a timely manner as provided under Regulation .06A(3) of this chapter, the Department shall notify the person that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The person is in violation of the requirement to file an annual implementation report; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The person is subject to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>After 30 days from issuance of the notice, an administrative penalty of not less than $100 and not more than $250 if the person fails to submit the report within 60 days from its issuance;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>After 60 days from issuance of the notice, an enhanced administrative penalty of not less than $250 and not more than $1000 if the person fails to submit the report within 90 days from its issuance; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>After 90 days from issuance of the notice, a further enhanced administrative penalty of not less than $1000 if the person fails to submit the report within 91 days from its issuance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A penalty imposed on a person under §A of this regulation shall be assessed with consideration given to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The extent to which the current violation is part of a recurrent pattern of the same or similar type of violation committed by the violator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Neither the issuance of an administrative penalty by the Department nor the payment of an administrative penalty by a person under this regulation shall relieve the person of the requirement to submit the annual implementation report under Regulation .06A(3) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§8-801—8-806, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 29, 2000 (27:10 Md. R. 967)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692); August 5, 2002 (29:15 Md. R. 1143)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective July 31, 2006 (33:15 Md. R. 1281); March 26, 2007 (34:6 Md. R. 628); November 16, 2009 (36:23 Md. R. 1818); October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308); June 8, 2015 (42:11 Md. R. 726); January 2, 2017 (43:26 Md. R. 1448), January 1, 2023 (Md. R. 49:24 1027)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended as an emergency provision effective October 16, 2024 (51:23 Md. R. 1035); amended permanently effective March 17, 2025 (52:5 Md. R. 238)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective October 5, 2020 (47:20 Md. R. 877)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A, C, D amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); amended permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684); October 5, 2020 (47:20 Md. R. 877)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective October 5, 2020 (47:20 Md. R. 877)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 adopted effective October 5, 2020 (47:20 Md. R. 877)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective May 2, 2022 (49:9 Md. R. 531)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="08" heading="Content and Criteria for a Nutrient Management Plan Developed for an Agricultural Operation"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter describes the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Content requirements for a nutrient management plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Requirements for plan recommendations by a certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Requirements for the implementation of a nutrient management plan by a person who manages an agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A nutrient management plan prepared for an agricultural operation indicates how primary nutrients are to be managed annually on farm fields for plant and crop production and for the protection of water quality. Plans contain recommendations to the agricultural operator based on expected crop yield or plant production goals, existing nutrient levels in the soil, organic residuals, optimum timing and placement of nutrients, environmental protection, and normal agricultural practices, such as liming, tillage, and crop rotation. The Department certifies and licenses qualified individuals to prepare plans under COMAR 15.20.04 and requires agricultural operations to implement the plans under COMAR 15.20.07.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>This chapter addresses nutrient management plans and recommendations for agricultural operations, including container or out-of-ground agricultural operations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>This chapter also describes the transition from the Phosphorus Site Index to the Phosphorus Management Tool as a means to identify potential risk of phosphorus loss from farms. Like the Phosphorus Site Index, the Phosphorus Management Tool will be employed when a soil sample analysis shows a phosphorus fertility index value (“P FIV”) of 150 or greater. Unless the transition schedule is adjusted as provided in this chapter, the Phosphorus Management Tool will be phased-in over a 7-year period as shown in the chart found in Regulation .10 of this chapter. Farms that have excess soil phosphorus will be placed in one of three tiers, as determined by the particular operation’s average phosphorus fertility index value. Farms with an average P FIV of 450 and greater will be the first operations required to begin implementing the Phosphorus Management Tool, but will be given a longer time-frame to fully implement it. Farms with an average P FIV of(1) 150 and greater, but less than 300, and (2) 300 and greater, but less than 450, will be required to begin implementing the Phosphorus Management Tool later but will be given less time to complete this transition.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Incorporation by Reference."> <text>The performance and technical standards provided in this subtitle are found in the Department of Agriculture's Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, which is incorporated by reference in COMAR 15.20.07.02.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Account identification number” means the unique identifier used by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation to identify a unit of land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agricultural operation” means a business or activity that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Tills, crops, keeps, pastures, or produces an agricultural product, including livestock, poultry, plants, trees, sod, food, feed, or fiber by in-ground, out-of-ground, container, or other culture; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has a gross annual income of $2,500 or more, or has eight or more animal units.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Animal unit” means the unit of measure equivalent to 1,000 pounds of live animal weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value” or “Average Soil P FIV” means a value:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Determined for an agricultural operation by averaging the P FIV of all fields or management units within the operation that have a P FIV greater than 150 (calculated by adding together the P FIV of each field or management unit within the operation that has a P FIV greater than 150 and dividing this sum by number of any such fields or management units); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Established not later than June 30, 2016, using soil tests not more than 3 years old.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Best management practice” means a conservation or pollution control practice that manages soil, nutrient losses, or other potential pollutant sources to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimize nutrient runoff or pollution of water resources; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Improve agricultural production and management.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Bioavailable” means a nutrient supply that is either currently, or likely to be, available to a plant or crop.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Biosolids” means any thickened liquid, suspended or settled solid, or dried residue extracted from sewage at a sewage treatment plant, including domestic sewage, that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contains recognized plant nutrients or liquid byproducts that meet federal and State regulations for beneficial use by land application or other methods; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is regulated as sewage sludge, pursuant to Environment Article, §9-201 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Certified farm operator” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan solely for agricultural land that the individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Owns;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Operates; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has a legal interest in.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Certified nutrient management consultant” or “consultant” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Chemical Fertilizer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Chemical fertilizer” means a manufactured or blended nutrient source, usually in granular or liquid form, containing a guaranteed analysis of primary nutrients.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Chemical fertilizer” does not include a product blended from all natural organic fertilizer sources.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Controlled release fertilizer” means a type of fertilizer that releases nutrients over time and which may be categorized as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Natural organics;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Organic, synthetic isobutylidene diurea and urea fomaldehyde;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Sulfur-coated synthetic organic or inorganic fertilizers; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Inorganic, resin-coated fertilizers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Cover crop” means a crop including, but not limited to, cereal grains, that is planted following the harvest of summer crops for the purpose of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Seasonal protection of soil;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Assimilation of residual nitrogen left from a previous crop; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Continued mineralization of nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Crop or plant nutrient needs” means the primary nutrient requirements of a crop, usually determined as pounds of total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O), required for production of a crop yield unit, such as a bushel of corn.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Environmental risk assessment for out-of-ground production” means a method used to evaluate risk from stormwater and runoff management and water application (irrigation) methods that is acceptable to the Department, as described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Expected crop yield” means a realistic crop yield for the agricultural operation determined by yield records or soil productivity information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Fertility index value (FIV)” means an index developed by the University of Maryland that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Used to describe the relative availability of nutrients to a plant or crop; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-B.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Fertilizer” means a substance containing a recognized primary plant nutrient used for its plant nutrient content and designed for use in promoting plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Field identification number” means a number or unique identifier used by an agricultural operator to distinguish or pinpoint the location of a field or management unit on a farm.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Liming” means the application of materials containing the carbonates, oxides, or hydroxides of calcium or magnesium in a condition, and in a quantity, adequate to manage soil acidity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Management unit” means an area sharing common characteristics, including soil type, nutrient content, and plant type or crop produced, so that nutrients can be recommended and managed in a uniform and consistent manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Manure management” means operations and conditions specific to an agricultural operation that has animals, or uses animal manure or waste nutrients from animal production. The purpose of manure management in nutrient management planning is to improve efficiency and effectiveness of nutrient utilization and to minimize the potential for nutrient loss from the management of animals or their manure and associated waste nutrients. Guidelines for manure management are described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section III-C.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Mineralization” means the process that converts unavailable organic forms of nutrient elements to an available inorganic state as a result of bacterial decomposition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Natural organic fertilizer” means a fertilizer derived from plant or animal products, including animal manure, biosolids, green manure, compost, or plant materials, or other residuals used as a source of primary nutrients, which:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Typically are not mixed with synthetic materials; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Are not changed in any physical or chemical manner from their initial state, except by means of cooking, chopping, composting, drying, grinding, shredding, or pelleting.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Nutrient application rate” means the quantity of primary nutrients, including total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O), recommended by a certified consultant to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Supply crop or plant nutrient needs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Achieve realistic yield or plant production goals, as defined by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>“Nutrient content” means the percentage of any primary nutrients as total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O) in any type or source of fertilizer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>“Nutrient management plan” means a plan prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal manure, fertilizer, biosolids, or other plant nutrients to minimize nutrient loss or runoff and to maintain the productivity of soil when growing agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(28)"> <text>“Operator” means a person who owns or manages an agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(29)"> <text>“Out-of-ground or container production” means the production of plants whose roots are not actually growing in the soil column.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(30)"> <text>“Person” means the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(31)"> <text>“Phosphorus Management Tool” means the new procedure developed by the University of Maryland, approved by the Department, and described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C, that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Uses characteristics of soils, landforms, and management practices to identify potential risk of phosphorus losses from soils to waters; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Shall be phased-in between 2016 and not later than 2024, ultimately replacing the Phosphorus Site Index.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(32)"> <text>“Phosphorus Site Index” means the original procedure developed by the University of Maryland, approved by the Department, and described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C, that uses characteristics of soils, landforms, and management practices to identify potential risk of phosphorus losses from soils to waters.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(33)"> <text>“Phosphorus Transition Management Phase I” means the first of two management phases that farms with a soil P FIV of 150 or greater shall employ when transitioning from use of the Phosphorus Site Index to the Phosphorus Management Tool as a means to determine the application of additional phosphorus that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Consists of three risk categories determined by a calculation of the Phosphorus Management Tool; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Includes a schedule for implementation based on the average soil P FIV for the operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(34)"> <text>“Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II” means the second of two management phases that farms with a soil P FIV of 150 or greater shall employ when transitioning from the use of the Phosphorus Site Index to the Phosphorus Management Tool as a means to determine the application of additional phosphorus that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Consists of three risk categories determined by a calculation of the Phosphorus Management Tool; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Includes a schedule for implementation based on the average soil P FIV for the operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(35)"> <text>“Plant production goal” means a statement of the estimated length of time that plants will be grown, and appropriate measure of expected plant size, such as height or diameter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(36)"> <text>“Primary nutrients” means a plant food that is essential for normal plant growth, and includes total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(37)"> <text>“Residual nutrients” means the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium available in the soil from previous nutrient sources or unharvested plants or plant parts, or the baseline nutrient levels in the soil.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(38)"> <text>“Soil leaching potential” means the potential for a given soil to be subject to nitrate and soluble chemical leaching below the root zone.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(39)"> <text>“Soil pH level” means the relative acidity or alkalinity of a soil and refers to the hydrogen ion concentration in the soil solution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(40)"> <text>“Substrate” means organic or inorganic material, often bark, peat, and sand, used as media components in a container to support the plant and contain the root system.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(41)"> <text>“Tier A operations” means those farms that have an average soil P FIV of 150 or greater but less than 300.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(42)"> <text>“Tier B operations” means those farms that have an average soil P FIV of 300 or greater but less than 450.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(43)"> <text>“Tier C operations” means those farms that have an average soil P FIV of 450 or greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(44)"> <text>“Volatilization” means a process in which nitrogen losses to the atmosphere occur as ammonia.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(45)"> <text>“Watershed code” means the code used by the State to identify a hydrologic unit area.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(46)"> <text>Waters.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Waters” means surface water or ground water, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>That part of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundaries of the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>All ponds, streams, natural wetlands, and drainage ditches or public drainage systems.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Waters” do not include irrigation and treatment ditches installed to hold, transform, treat, or transfer water or wastewater, if a separation is maintained between the ditches and waters, as defined in §B(38)(a) of this regulation, at all times.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Nutrient Management—Required Plan Content."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator shall prepare, and an operator shall have and implement, a nutrient management plan that conforms to the requirements in §§B—G of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Plan Identification. A plan shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The operator name and address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The account identification number or numbers for all tax maps and parcels contained in the plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A county and watershed code of all land under a nutrient management plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The date the plan was prepared or updated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The period of time the plan covers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The name, certification, and license number of the certified nutrient management consultant responsible for the plan development; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The name and certification number of the certified farm operator responsible for the plan development.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Map or Aerial Photograph.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A plan shall contain one or more maps, such as soil survey maps or aerial photographs, that identify:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The location and boundaries of the agricultural operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The individual field boundaries or management units;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A field or management unit number or identifier; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Acreage of each field or management unit.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The map or aerial photograph of the features described in §C(1) of this regulation shall be clearly recognizable. An agricultural operation sketch or soil survey map may be used when a map or aerial photograph is not available, if the features described in §C(1) of this regulation are clearly recognizable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Plan Elements. A plan shall contain the following, when applicable:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All nutrient recommendations for the period the plan is effective, including crop rotations or recommendations for alternative cropping plans, if applicable, within specific field or management unit information, described under §E of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The type and average number of animals annually raised, maintained, or housed on the agricultural operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The quantities of animal manure or waste produced and available from animal housing or waste storage structures during the period the plan covers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The total animal manure used as crop nutrients, including manure from on-farm and off-farm sources, and its nutrient analysis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The quantity of animal manure or waste and location of alternative use, including land application off-site, processing, composting, or other uses of unused animal manure or waste;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The source and type of information used to determine expected crop yield or plant production goal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Any recommendation to change management, install additional best management practices, or implement alternative technologies to reduce risk potential for nutrient movement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Any recommendation to ensure efficient application of fertilizers; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Any determination of the limiting nutrient as required under Regulation .04 of this chapter, including use of a risk analysis tool indicating the potential for nutrients to move into surface water or ground water, based on current conditions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Field or Management Unit Specific Information. A plan shall contain data for each field or area where nutrients will be applied and shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The date the recommendations are prepared or updated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An account identification number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The watershed location code;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The field or management unit number or identifier and acreage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A soil analysis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The expected crop or plant and expected crop yield or plant production goal for the period covered by the plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Any crop rotation or recommendation for alternative cropping plans, if applicable, to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Provide the operator greater flexibility, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Minimize the need for a plan update;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The primary nutrient requirements based on expected crop yield or plant production goals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Any available nutrients in the soil from the previous crop and mineralization and bioavailability assumptions for organic nutrient sources;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>The nutrients to be applied from all fertilizer sources to meet the crop or plant nutrient requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Any recommendation for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The liming of the soil,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The application time for nutrients, including split applications, and the use of diagnostics to determine crop nutrient requirements,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any nutrient application method,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The need to calibrate application equipment,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The incorporation of natural organic fertilizers, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Any management strategy to achieve soil fertility within an optimal range; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Current or recommended tillage method.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Summary of Nutrient Recommendations. A plan shall contain a summary section that lists the following information for each farm field or management unit:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The field or management unit identifier or number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The field or management unit acreage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The expected crop or plant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The expected crop yield or plant production goals for the period covered by the plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any recommended nutrient rates;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The amount and type of nutrients, including chemical fertilizer or natural organic fertilizer, per acre or management unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The nutrient application method and, if application method requires incorporation of the nutrient, timing for incorporation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Any liming recommendations, if needed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Plan Maintenance. A plan shall contain information to maintain and update a nutrient management plan. General comments about plan maintenance may be summarized and shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The length of time the plan is effective;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The circumstances or changes in the farm operation that would require the plan to be modified or updated, including a change:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>To the planned crop or cropping rotation, or introduction of a new crop not currently addressed in the existing nutrient management plan, unless the new crop or plant will have fertility management similar to that originally planned,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Of nutrient source or soil test results that indicate a change in nutrient recommendations,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>In acreage managed of 10 percent or greater, or 30 acres, whichever is less, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>In animal units of 10 percent or greater if resultant manure production will require significant management adjustments; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any information on soil fertility and management strategies for achieving soil fertility within an optimal range.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Nutrient Management — Required Plan Recommendations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator shall address all of the elements and use the criteria described in §§B—I of this regulation to determine recommendations in a nutrient management plan. A consultant's or certified farm operator's recommendations shall be consistent with the Department technical standards and criteria as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Sections I, II, and III.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Nutrient Rates.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Nutrient rates of the primary nutrients shall be calculated for plant growth requirements of the crop.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Plant growth requirements shall be based on one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>University of Maryland Plant or Crop Nutrient Recommendations, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Alternative standards, as provided in scientifically validated data for the development of a nutrient management plan acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A consultant or certified farm operator may recommend the use of lime, secondary nutrients, or micronutrients needed for optimal plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A consultant or certified farm operator may recommend nutrient rates that deviate from University of Maryland Plant or Crop Nutrient Recommendations and alternative standards provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, for application on farm test plots with prior approval from the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A consultant or certified farm operator may recommend nutrient rates based on a single variety tissue sample when used in conjunction with a soil sample.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Expected Crop Yield or Production Goal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The calculation of expected crop yield shall be based upon one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An average of the 3 highest-yielding years for the crop out of the latest consecutive 5-year cropping sequence; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If yield information exists for more than 5 years for a given field or management unit, crop yield calculations may be based on the average of 60 percent of the highest-yielding years for all consecutive years that crop yield information is available.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If field or management unit-specific yield or plant production goal information is unavailable or unrepresentative due to the inclusion of new seed varieties, irrigation, or new technologies, a consultant or certified farm operator shall use one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any soil productivity information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The average yield based upon an average of the 3 highest-yielding years for the crop out of the latest consecutive 5-year cropping sequence from nearby fields or management units with similar soil type and management conditions; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any data acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A consultant shall document what information was used as the basis for determining expected yield goal as part of the consultant's record-keeping requirements.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Soil Analysis Results.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Soil analysis results for each field or management unit shall be based on standard soil sampling and analysis methods acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Soil Samples. Variations from the standard sampling process shall be documented by the consultant or certified farm operator and may include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Soil samples collected from larger fields or acreage with uniform characteristics, including soil types, moisture, or fertility management history; crop rotations may be sampled as one management unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Soil samples from fields, such as those common to strip cropping, which may be combined if the soils, previous cropping history, and soil fertility management are similar; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any specialized production unit which may warrant smaller sampling units.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Soil analysis results for a plan are valid for 3 years, except if the following conditions exist and are documented by the consultant or certified farm operator:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A less frequent soil analysis is required to implement a management system based on new technologies;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The management system does not require any nutrient application; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The management system requires nutrient application at a frequency less than once every 3 years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A recommendation for more than one planting season or crop may be made if anticipated soil fertility changes from the following are documented:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Previous and future crop rotations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Residual soil nutrients and nutrients used for previous crops.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Determination of Limiting Nutrient.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A consultant or certified farm operator shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Use the criteria in this section to determine which nutrient is the limiting factor in the application of nutrients; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Recommend subsequent nutrient management strategies consistent with this section.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Soil fertility shall be used as an indicator of whether nutrient recommendations should be adjusted to address potential nutrient pollution problems.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value (FIV) of less than 150, nutrient recommendations may be based on nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section 1-B.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Phosphorus Criteria for Tier A Operations.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except for nutrient management plans developed in accordance with §E(4)(e) of this regulation, the certified consultant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Provide the operator information outlining the changes in the management of the operation that will be required when the Phosphorus Management Tool becomes effective;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Calculate the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Report the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation to the Department on a form provided by the Department not later than September 1, 2016.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Nutrient management plans implemented before July 1, 2019 shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Be developed using both the Phosphorus Site Index and the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Use the Phosphorus Site Index set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase I set forth in Regulation .07 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Unless the transition schedule is adjusted as provided under this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II set forth in Regulation .08 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2020, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under Transition Management Phase II:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Transition Management Phase I shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2021;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The transition to Transition Management Phase II, as provided in this section, shall be implemented 1 year later, beginning July 1, 2021; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The subsequent schedule to transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in §E(4)(e) of this regulation, likewise shall be implemented 1 year later, beginning July 1, 2022.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Unless the transition schedule is adjusted as provided under either §E(4)(d) of this regulation or this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented after July 1, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Management Tool set forth in Regulation .09 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2021 or, alternatively, January 1, 2022, if the transition schedule has been adjusted under §E(4)(d) of this regulation, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under the Phosphorus Management Tool:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Transition Management Phase II shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(4)(d) of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The Phosphorus Management Tool shall be used to determine phosphorus applications after June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, after June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(4)(d) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Phosphorus Criteria for Tier B Operations.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except for nutrient management plans developed in accordance with §E(5)(e) of this regulation, the certified consultant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Provide the operator information outlining the changes in the management of the operation that shall be required when the Phosphorus Management Tool becomes effective;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Calculate the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Report the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation to the Department on a form provided by the Department not later than September 1, 2016.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Nutrient management plans developed for implementation before July 1, 2018 shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Be developed using both the Phosphorus Site Index and the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Use the Phosphorus Site Index set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase I set forth in Regulation .07 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Unless the schedule is adjusted as provided under this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II set forth in Regulation .08 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2019, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manuretransportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under Transition Management Phase II:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Transition Management Phase I shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2020;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The transition to Transition Management Phase II, as provided in this section, shall be implemented 1 year later, beginning July 1, 2020; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The subsequent schedule to transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in §E(5)(d) of this regulation, shall be implemented 2 years later, beginning July 1, 2022.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Unless the transition schedule is adjusted as provided under either §E(5)(d) of this regulation or this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented after July 1, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Management Tool set forth in Regulation .09 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2021 or, alternatively, January 1, 2022, if the transition schedule has been adjusted under §E(5)(d) of this regulation, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under the Phosphorus Management Tool:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Transition Management Phase II shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(5)(d) of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The Phosphorus Management Tool shall be used to determine phosphorus applications after June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, after June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(5)(d) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Phosphorus Criteria for Tier C Operations.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except for nutrient management plans developed in accordance with §E(6)(e) of this regulation, the certified consultant shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Provide the operator information outlining the changes in the management of the operation that will be required when the Phosphorus Management Tool becomes effective;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Calculate the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Report the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation to the Department on a form provided by the Department not later than September 1, 2016.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Nutrient management plans implemented prior to July 1, 2017 shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Be developed using both the Phosphorus Site Index and the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Use the Phosphorus Site Index set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2019 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase 1 set forth in Regulation .07 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Unless the schedule is adjusted as provided under this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II set forth in Regulation .08 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2019, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under Transition Management Phase II:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Transition Management Phase I shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2020;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The transition to Transition Management Phase II, as provided in this section, shall be implemented 1 year later, beginning July 1, 2020; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The subsequent schedule to transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in §E(6)(e) of this regulation, shall be implemented 2 years later, beginning July 1, 2022.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Unless the transition schedule is adjusted, as provided under either §E(6)(d) of this regulation or this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented after July 1, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Management Tool set forth in Regulation .09 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2021 or, alternatively, January 1, 2022, if the transition schedule has been adjusted under §E(6)(d) of this regulation, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under the Phosphorus Management Tool:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Transition Management Phase II shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(6)(d), of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The Phosphorus Management Tool shall be used to determine phosphorus applications after June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, after June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(6)(d) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Natural Organic Fertilizer.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An agricultural operator who uses natural organic fertilizer shall determine its nutrient value as specified in this section.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Test results for natural organic fertilizer shall be determined by an operator, consultant, or certified farm operator using standard sampling and analysis methods acceptable to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The consultant or operator shall conduct animal manure or waste analysis as close to application time as possible, or a consistent baseline for nutrient content may be established and used from analysis results taken at least twice a year until a uniform value is confirmed, and then for every second year thereafter to verify its consistency. If significant changes occur, including feed, management, animals, or storage, a new analysis for nutrient content shall be determined by the consultant or operator for the new manure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Biosolids analysis shall be conducted according to COMAR 26.04.06.09A(13)(d) as close to nutrient application time as possible, but at least once a year. If changes occur in a sewage treatment facility, or routine biosolids analysis reveals a significant change in available nutrient content during the permit period, nutrient application rates shall be adjusted accordingly by the consultant, or certified farm operator, or the operator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Analysis of any other natural organic fertilizer or organic materials shall be conducted by the operator as close to nutrient application time as possible, but at least once a year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Calculations for nutrient content from natural organic fertilizer shall consider mineralization rates and plant availability rates for different forms and sources of organic nutrients. Mineralization of organic nitrogen from the 2 previous years of natural organic fertilizer applications shall be accounted for in the plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Application Method for Nutrients. A consultant or certified farm operator shall consider the following when making recommendations on nutrient application methods in a plan:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Nutrient application shall be made to minimize nitrogen and phosphorus losses to waters and nitrogen volatilization losses to the atmosphere;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Techniques to achieve accurate and uniform application of nutrients shall be recommended by the consultant or certified farm operator and shall be used by the operator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Split application of nitrogen on soils identified as having a high leaching potential;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Measures to minimize or control nutrient movement to sensitive areas, including natural or existing wetlands, sinkholes, and steep slopes; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Recommendations shall ensure efficient application of fertilizers and may include crop rotation, agronomic practices, tillage, and cover crop management.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Timing of Nutrient Application. Timing for nutrient applications, as recommended by a consultant or certified farm operator and conducted by an operator, shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be as close to plant nutrient uptake periods as possible;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maximize plant utilization efficiency and minimize the potential for nutrient movement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Be consistent with the guidelines contained in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-D.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Manure Management. When an agricultural operation either produces animals or integrates animal manure use with crop production, a consultant or certified farm operator shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Take into account the current manure management measures being used to store, stockpile, and handle animal manure and waste nutrients associated with animal production in order to make appropriate recommendations for application rates, timing, and methods;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Evaluate existing conditions and procedures and advise the operator when manure management changes, such as improved stockpiling or storage facilities, would minimize the potential for nutrient loss or runoff or improve nutrient use efficiency and proper timing of manure utilization; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Take into account animal manure or waste nutrients associated with animal production and all other sources of nutrients when making recommendations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Nutrient Management — Phosphorus Site Index."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §F of this regulation, if the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or greater, the Phosphorus Site Index, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C1, shall be used to determine the potential risk of phosphorus loss due to site characteristics.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Low Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. If the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is low according to the Phosphorus Site Index, nutrient recommendations by the consultant or certified farm operator may use nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Medium Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §C(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is medium according to the Phosphorus Site Index, nutrient rates shall be based on nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor not more than 1 out of every 3 years. Phosphorus rates for the other 2 years shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Nutrient recommendations may use nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor if BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Site Index, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to low.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §D(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is high according to the Phosphorus Site Index, phosphorus rates shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Site Index, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to medium, nutrient rates may be based on nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor not more than 1 out of every 3 years. Phosphorus rates for the other 2 years shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Very High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §E(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is very high according to the Phosphorus Site Index, no additional phosphorus may be applied.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Site Index, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to high, recommended rates of application of phosphorus shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The operator shall consider the implementation of management practices and technologies that are effective in lowering the risk of phosphorus loss, based on research and demonstration of the University of Maryland, or other land grant university, or by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Planning Procedures Handbook and practice standards adopted for Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If the soil sample analysis results indicate a phosphorus fertility index value of 500 or greater, no phosphorus may be applied.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Nutrient Management — Phosphorus Transition Management Phase I."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §E of this regulation, if the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or greater, the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C2, shall be used to determine the potential risk of phosphorus loss due to site characteristics.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Low Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is low according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, nutrient recommendations by the consultant or certified farm operator may use nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Nutrient applications shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crop over a 3-year period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Medium Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §C(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is medium according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, total phosphorus applications related to crops anticipated to be planted in a 3-year period shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crops over the 3-year period, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to low, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §D(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is high according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, phosphorus rates shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to medium, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §C of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The operator shall consider the implementation of management practices and technologies that are effective in lowering the risk of phosphorus loss based on research and demonstration of the University of Maryland, or other land grant university, or by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Planning Procedures Handbook and practice standards adopted for Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the soil sample analysis results indicate a phosphorus fertility index value of 500 or greater, no phosphorus may be applied.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Nutrient Management — Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §E of this regulation, if the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or greater, the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C2, shall be used to determine the potential risk of phosphorus loss due to site characteristics.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Low Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. If the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is low according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, total phosphorus applications related to crops anticipated to be planted in a 3-year period shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crops over the 3-year period, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Medium Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §C(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is medium according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, total phosphorus applications related to crops anticipated to be planted in a 2-year period shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crops over the 2-year period, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to low, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §D(3) and (4) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is high according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, phosphorus rates shall be limited to 50 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If limits of technology of available application equipment prevent application at 50 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest immediately following the phosphorus application, phosphorus rates shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest immediately following the phosphorus application, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to medium, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §C of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If the crop to be produced is certified as organic pursuant to the requirements of the federal Organic Foods Production Act, 7 U.S.C. §6501 et seq., including implementing federal regulations, as amended, recommended rates of application of phosphorus shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, or the amount indicated by soil testing in accordance with recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The operator shall consider the implementation of management practices and technologies that are effective in lowering the risk of phosphorus loss based on research and demonstration of the University of Maryland, or other land grant university, or by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Planning Procedures Handbook and practice standards adopted for Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the soil sample analysis results indicate a phosphorus fertility index value of 500 or greater, no phosphorus may be applied.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Nutrient Management — Phosphorus Management Tool."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or greater, the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C2, shall be used to determine the potential risk of phosphorus loss due to site characteristics.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Low Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. If the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is low according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, total phosphorus applications related to crops anticipated to be planted in a 3-year period shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crops over the 3-year period.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Medium Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §C(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is medium according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, phosphorus rates shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B , whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to low, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §D(2)—(6) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is high according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, no additional phosphorus may be applied.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to medium, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §C of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the crop to be produced is certified as organic pursuant to the requirements of the federal Organic Foods Production Act, 7 U.S.C. §6501 et seq., including implementing federal regulations, as amended, recommended rates of application of phosphorus shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing in accordance with recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Except when subject to cold and wet growing conditions, crops determined to be deficient in phosphorus, as demonstrated by a representative tissue analysis by an accredited laboratory, may receive an application of phosphorus not to exceed 25 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest immediately following the phosphorus application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Vegetable and tobacco crops with a recommended phosphorus application rate of 40 pounds or more at optimum or excessive fertility levels as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, may receive a phosphorus application at planting not to exceed 25 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest immediately following the phosphorus application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Agricultural operations implementing technologies to reduce the phosphorus content of animal manures by at least 75 percent shall limit phosphorus application rates to 50 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The operator shall consider the implementation of management practices and technologies that are effective in lowering the risk of phosphorus loss based on research and demonstration of the University of Maryland, or other land grant university, or by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Planning Procedures Handbook and practice standards adopted for Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Summary Schedule — Transition from Phosphorus Site Index to Phosphorus Management Tool."> <text>7-YEAR TRANSITION SCHEDULE*</text> <text>Crop Year** 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Average PFIV>450(Tier COperations PSI PSI TM1 TM1 TM2 TM2 PMT Average PFIV 300-450(Tier BOperations PSI PSI PSI TM1 TM2 TM2 PMT Average PFIV 150-299(Tier AOperations PSI PSI PSI PSI TM1 TM2 PMT PSI — Phosphorus Site Index TM1 — Transition Management Phase 1 TM2 — Transition Management Phase 2 PMT — Phosphorus Management Tool</text> <text>*The 7-Year transition period assumes that the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee does not make any adjustments to the transition schedule as provided for in this chapter.</text> <text>**The term “crop year” means the 1-year period beginning July 1 of the previous year through June 30 of the current year. For example, the 2016 crop year begins on July 1, 2015 and ends on June 30, 2016.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Beginning in 2015 and continuing until the Phosphorus Management Tool is fully implemented, there shall be established within the Department, the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Committee shall be chaired by the Secretary. Its membership may include the following persons:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A member of the Senate, appointed by the President;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Secretary of the Environment, or his designee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Director of the Maryland Environmental Service, or his designee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The Director of the Maryland Energy Administration, or his designee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The University of Maryland, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The Chesapeake Bay Commission;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Members appointed by the Secretary, including a representative from:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Maryland Farm Bureau;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Maryland Grain Producers Association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The Delmarva Poultry Industry, Inc.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The Maryland Dairy Industry Association;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The Chesapeake Bay Foundation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Two non-governmental organizations representing environmental interests;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>The biosolids industry;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>The manure hauling industry;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The manure application industry;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Two alternative technology vendors or Enterprises; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Two representatives of county and municipal government from a list submitted by the Maryland Association of Counties and the Maryland Municipal League.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The purpose of the committee shall be to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Evaluate information relevant to the implementation of the Phosphorus Management Tool including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The quantity and location of excess animal manure within the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The status and activity of manure transportation activities in geographic areas with excess animal manures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The viability of markets for animal manures as a crop fertilizer, fuel stock for energy generation and other alternative uses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The status and capacity of alternative use technologies using animal manures; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Other information the Department and the Advisory Committee deems appropriate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Recommend to the Secretary strategies to facilitate the effective implementation of the Phosphorus Management Tool;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Recommend to the Secretary potential changes to the schedule implementing the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided for in this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Identify resources necessary for the effective transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Committee shall meet at least annually at a time determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Annual Report.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Beginning December 1, 2016 and each year thereafter, until the Phosphorus Management Tool is fully implemented, the Committee shall provide a report to the Governor and the General Assembly.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The report shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A summary of the data collected from farms related to the operational changes created by implementing the Phosphorus Management Tool;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The status of certain programs related to or supporting the transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Resource needs considered critical for the effective transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Policy recommendations to enhance the implementation of the Phosphorus Management Tool.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Nutrient Management for Container or Out-of-Ground Agricultural Production — Additional Required Plan Content."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator shall prepare, and an operator of container or out-of-ground agricultural production shall conform to the requirements of §§B—H of this regulation, in addition to applicable requirements described in this chapter, when developing and implementing, a nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Plan Elements. A plan shall contain a summary of planned plant production applicable to the site, including:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A listing of plants to be grown by name, species, and variety and cultivar or both; however, if more than 20 different kinds of plants are grown, general plant categories may be used, such as herbaceous, deciduous shrub, coniferous evergreen, broadleaf evergreen, or trees;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The estimated greatest number of plants, units, or containers that will be in production at any one time during a calendar year and the month this will occur;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The estimated percentages of plants, units, or containers in the following container size categories:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Less than 1 gallon (less than 2,492 cubic centimeters container volume),</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>From 1 to 3 gallons (2,492 to 12,164 cubic centimeters),</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Greater than 3 gallons and less than 15 gallons (more than 12,164, but less than 45,376 cubic centimeters), or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>15 gallons or greater (45,376 cubic centimeters or more);</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An inventory, which may include projected changes during the life of the plan, taken by the operator for any purpose within 12 months of completion of the plan, which shall meet the requirements of §B(1), (2), and (3) of this regulation, if the inventory is representative of planned production during the period covered by a nutrient management plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Total growing area under the plan, which may include projected changes in growing area planned to take place during the life of the plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Summary of Nutrient Recommendations. A plan shall contain summary information on the total amount of primary nutrients recommended for each calendar year covered by the plan, including:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The estimated total amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A listing of all sources of nutrients;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The estimated amounts of each source of nutrients to be applied for each quarter of the year; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A listing or description of the application method or methods for each nutrient.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Assessment of Environmental Risk. A nutrient management plan shall contain an assessment of the risk of nutrient losses to surface water, using the Environmental Risk Assessment for out-of-ground production provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>General Management Recommendations. A plan shall contain general recommendations to ensure efficient application of nutrients, including:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The calibration of equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The timing and application methods for water and nutrients;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Management options to maximize the efficient use of water;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any operator management options to reduce nutrient losses; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any other best management practices that may be applicable as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-E.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Specific Management Recommendations. A consultant or certified farm operator shall recommend growing area or section-specific management techniques to improve water use efficiency and minimize nutrient losses, including the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Grouping plants to improve water and nutrient usage;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Monitoring water and nutrient needs of plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Increasing the percentage of water and nutrients entering the plant root zone;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Reducing the amount of leachate or runoff; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Reducing or containing the flow of water from growing areas.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Program for Monitoring Runoff. A nutrient management plan shall include recommendations to monitor runoff, as required in Regulation .07C of this chapter, including recommendations on methods, frequency, and locations of monitoring.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Plan Maintenance. A plan shall contain information to maintain and update the plan. General comments about plan maintenance may be summarized, but shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The length of time the plan is effective, not to exceed 3 years; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Identification of changes in the agricultural operation that would require the original plan to be modified or updated, including a:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Change in area managed of 20 percent or greater, or 5 acres, whichever is less, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Substantial change in a production plan or method.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Nutrient Management—Required Plan Recommendations for Container or Out-of-Ground Production."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Nutrient Recommendations. A certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator shall evaluate production cycles and methods and make nutrient recommendations based on at least one of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The label recommendations on fertilizer products for the plants being grown or similar plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The recommendations of the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension for the specific plants being grown or for similar plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The recommendation from other state universities for the specific plants being grown or for similar plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The data from research done by accredited universities on the specific plants being grown or similar plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The general nutrition guidelines for similar plants; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Any generally accepted growing practices for plants under comparable growing conditions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Management Recommendations.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A consultant or certified farm operator shall use the Environmental Risk Assessment for out-of-ground production, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-D, to identify the potential risk to the environment of nutrient movement from out-of-ground growing areas.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For growing areas where there is zero or low risk of nutrient movement from the site, recommendations shall be made to maintain this zero or low level of risk.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For growing areas where there is medium risk of nutrient movement:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Management recommendations shall be made to minimize the risk of nutrients moving to, or reaching, surface waters; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The consultant or certified farm operator shall recommend that the operator or other person responsible for irrigation and nutrient management attend Department-approved training on best management practices for out-of-ground production to minimize nutrient losses.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>For growing areas where there is high risk of nutrient movement:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Management recommendations shall be made for individual growing areas, as well as for the operation as a whole, to reduce the risk of nutrients moving to, or reaching, surface waters;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The consultant or certified farm operator shall recommend that the operator or other person responsible for irrigation and nutrient management attend Department-approved training on best management practices for out-of-ground production that teaches how to minimize nutrient losses; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Only controlled release fertilizer shall be recommended for use until management changes reduce the risk of nutrient loss to medium.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>In recommending field or management unit practices to reduce or minimize nutrient losses, a consultant or certified farm operator shall consider the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The appropriate nutrient application methods;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Nutrient application timing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any plant nutrient needs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Timing of nutrient application shall be as close to plant nutrient uptake as possible, except in the case of controlled release fertilizer, which may be applied at any time.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Recommendations for Monitoring Runoff. Unless an operation is assessed as zero risk for nutrient loss from the site, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-D, the nutrient management consultant shall recommend a monitoring program, including the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The periods for monitoring when plant nutrients can reasonably be expected to be available;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The locations immediately next to growing areas or areas where runoff or overflow from collection basins enters surface water, municipal stormwater, or drainage inlets; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The frequency of sampling for nutrients:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Where the risk of nutrient movement from any growing area is low, monitoring shall include samples for testing a minimum of two different times during each growing season or cycle from each location; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Where the risk of impacting surface water is medium or high, monitoring recommendations shall be conducted monthly when nutrients are being applied.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Methods of Sampling and Testing. Samples may be analyzed by the operator or consultant on-site using calibrated electrical conductivity (EC) or nutrient meters. To evaluate the accuracy of on-site test results, at least two samples per year shall be split, with one part being sent to an independent laboratory for analysis.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§8-801—8-806, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 29, 2000 (27:10 Md. R. 967)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective August 5, 2002 (29:15 Md. R. 1143)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04E amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); revised permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective July 31, 2006 (33:15 Md. R. 1282)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective June 8, 2015 (42:11 Md. R. 726)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="09" heading="State Income Tax Credit for Additional Commercial Fertilizer Costs"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter establishes the eligibility requirements for a person operating an agricultural operation to claim a State income tax credit for additional commercial fertilizer costs due to the agricultural operation's conversion to a phosphorus based nutrient management plan.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural operation” means a business or activity that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Tills, crops, keeps, pastures, or produces an agricultural product, including livestock, poultry, plants, trees, sod, food, feed, or fiber by in-ground, out-of-ground, container, or other culture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has a gross annual income of $2,500 or more, or has eight or more animal units; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Includes all land owned or managed for agricultural production by the taxpayer filing a tax credit claim.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Base year” means the year before the agricultural operation converted to a phosphorus based nutrient management plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Commercial fertilizer” means any substance containing a recognized plant nutrient used for its plant nutrient content, and designed for use or claimed to have value in promoting plant growth, except unmanipulated animal and vegetable manure, marl, lime, wood ashes, and gypsum.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Nutrient management plan” or “plan” means a plan prepared in accordance with Department requirements to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal manure, fertilizer, biosolids, or other plant nutrients in order to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimize nutrient loss or runoff; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Maintain the productivity of soil when growing agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person operating an agricultural operation that incurs additional commercial fertilizer costs due to conversion of nutrient use to meet the requirements of a phosphorus based nutrient management plan is eligible for a State income tax credit under this chapter, if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A nutrient management plan meeting the requirements of COMAR 15.20.08 has been submitted to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The conversion of nutrient use is for the purpose of complying with the requirements set forth in COMAR 15.20.08 for the implementation of nutrient recommendations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Those costs take into account management by the taxpayer of all acreage in their agricultural operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Those costs are related to the purchase of additional quantities of commercial fertilizer, specialized blends, or formulations, and not due solely to product price increases; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The Department has approved a Certificate of Additional Fertilizer Expense for Income Tax Deduction, indicating the amount of credit that may be claimed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The credit may be taken against the following types of taxes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Personal income tax; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Corporate income tax.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The credit may be claimed by the following types of agricultural operations:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Sole proprietorships;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Corporations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pass-through entities, including partnerships, S-corporations, and limited liability companies on behalf of their partners, shareholders, and members, respectively.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Credit Allowances."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Allowable Credit. A person operating an agricultural operation who sustains additional, but necessary, commercial fertilizer costs converting to a phosphorus based nutrient management plan, may claim a State income tax credit in an amount equal to 50 percent of these additional costs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Amount Allowed Per Taxable Year.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For any taxable year, the maximum credit a person may claim is $4,500.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the credit exceeds the person's liability for the taxable year, the unused credit may be carried forward for up to 5 years.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Limited Time Frame. A person may claim the credit allowed under this chapter for up to 3 consecutive years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Credit End Date. A person may not claim credit for any additional costs otherwise allowed under this chapter expended on or after January 1, 2009.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Requirements for Tax Credit Certification."> <text>To claim a tax credit, a person operating an agricultural operation shall file a Certificate of Additional Fertilizer Expense for Income Tax Deduction. To obtain this certificate, a person shall submit the following to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A signed Departmental form requesting a Certificate of Additional Fertilizer Expense for Income Tax Deduction;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The nutrient recommendation summary page of the nutrient management plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The nutrient management plan reporting form, characterizing the agricultural operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Information, including copies of receipts, describing commercial fertilizer expenses in the base year; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Information, including copies of receipts, describing commercial fertilizer expenses for the year the tax credit is being claimed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Tax-General Article, §10-704.9, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 2, 2002 (29:17 Md. R. 1382)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="10" heading="Fertilizer Application Requirements for Land Not Used for Agricultural Purposes"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter explains the requirements and training applicable to persons who apply nutrients to land that is not used for agricultural purposes.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Applicator” means a person who applies any type of nutrient, as defined by this chapter, to any crop, plant, or land intended to be planted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture or its designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Direct supervision” means the act or process whereby a fertilizer application is made by a trained employee acting under the instructions and control of a certified professional fertilizer applicator who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is responsible for the actions of that person; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Maintains immediate contact with the trained employee via radio or mobile phone (voice) communication.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Enhanced efficiency fertilizer” means a fertilizer product that increases plant uptake and decreases the potential of nutrient loss to the environment, including gaseous loss, leaching, or runoff, when compared to an appropriate reference fertilizer product.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Fertilizer” or “commercial fertilizer” means a substance containing a recognized plant nutrient used for its plant nutrient content and designed for use, or claimed to have value, in promoting plant growth, except unmanipulated animal and vegetable manure, marl, lime, wood ashes, and gypsum.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Impervious surface” means any structure, surface, or improvement that reduces or prevents absorption of stormwater into land, and includes concrete, asphalt, porous paving, paver blocks, gravel, crushed stone, decks, patios, elevated structures, and other similar structures, surfaces, or improvements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Label” means the display of all written, printed, or graphic matter on the immediate container or a statement accompanying a commercial fertilizer or soil conditioner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Land not used for agricultural purposes” means a parcel of land that does not qualify for agricultural use assessment under Tax-Property Article, §8-209, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Lawn patch product” means a premixed blend of grass seed, fertilizer, and mulch.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Licensee” means an entity that holds a business license that is issued by the Department, in accordance with this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Low phosphorous fertilizer” means fertilizer:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Containing not more than 5 percent of available phosphate (P2O5); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>That has an application rate not to exceed 0.25 pound of available phosphate (P2O5)/1000 square feet/ application and 0.5 pound of available phosphate (P2O5)/1000 square feet/year.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Management unit” means an area of land similar soil types, having similar use and management history, and having similar fertility levels as determined by valid soil tests, and will be managed the same in the future.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Natural Organic Fertilizer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Natural organic fertilizer” means a fertilizer product that is derived from either a plant or animal product containing carbon, and one or more elements, other than hydrogen or oxygen that are essential for plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Natural organic fertilizer” does not include a fertilizer product that contains:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Synthetic materials; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Materials that are changed in any physical or chemical manner from their initial state, except by physical manipulation, including drying, cooking, chopping, grinding, shredding, or pelleting.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Non-professional” means any person who applies fertilizer to turf and is not for-hire.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Nutrient” means a fertilizer or any substance used to promote plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Nutrient content" means the percentage of any primary nutrient, as total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O), in any type or source of plant nutrients.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>Organic Fertilizer.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Organic fertilizer” means a fertilizer product that is derived from either a plant or animal product containing carbon and one or more elements, other than hydrogen or oxygen, that are essential for plant growth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Organic fertilizer includes a fertilizer product that contains:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Synthetic materials; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Materials that are changed in a physical or chemical manner from their initial state.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Person” means the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Professional fertilizer applicator” means any person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is certified to apply fertilizer in accordance with this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Applies fertilizer for hire or within the scope of that person’s employment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Slow-release nitrogen” means nitrogen in a form that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Delays it’s availability for plant uptake and use after application; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Extends its availability to the plant significantly longer than a reference “rapidly available nutrient” such as ammonium nitrate or urea, ammonium phosphate, or potassium chloride.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>Soil Conditioner.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Soil conditioner” means any substance or mixture of substances intended for sale, offered for sale, or sold for:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Manurial, soil enriching, or soil corrective purposes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Promoting or stimulating the growth of plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Increasing the productivity of plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Improving the quality of crops; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Producing any chemical or physical change in the soil, except a commercial fertilizer, unmanipulated animal and vegetable manures, agricultural liming material, and gypsum.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Soil conditioner” includes but is not limited to materials such as compost, peat, vermiculite, or perlite that are incorporated into the soil.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Soil test” means a technical analysis of soil conducted by a laboratory using standards recommended by the University of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Trained employee” means a person who applies fertilizer under the direct supervision of a certified professional fertilizer applicator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Turf” means land, including residential property and publicly owned land that is planted in grass, except land that is used in the sale and production of sod, as defined in Agriculture Article, §9-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Water-soluble nitrogen” means nitrogen that is readily soluble in water.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Certification Requirement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who is paid to apply fertilizer to turf not used for agricultural purposes may not apply fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorus to turf unless that person is a certified professional fertilizer applicator, or working under the direct supervision of a professional fertilizer applicator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person, other than a certified professional fertilizer applicator, a trained employee, or a person who merely markets services for a certified professional fertilizer applicator, may not offer to provide turf fertilization services for compensation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Each business location, agency, golf course, or other location shall employ a certified professional fertilizer applicator when an employee is paid to fertilize.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Certification Program."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department, in consultation with the University of Maryland, shall establish a program to train and certify professional fertilizer applicators.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This program shall include training and education in:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The proper use and calibration of fertilizer application equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The hazards involved in, and the environmental impact of, applying fertilizer, including nutrient pollution to the waters of the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All applicable State and federal laws, rules, and regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The correct interpretation of fertilizer labeling information; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The recommendations developed by the University of Maryland for nutrient management on turf, including the appropriate time to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Apply fertilizer when rain is forecast; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Apply fertilizer when soils are wet and the potential for fertilizer movement off-site exists.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Professional Fertilizer Applicator."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Certification. Each applicant for a professional fertilizer applicator certificate shall register with the Department, on a form approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Certification Requirements. Each applicant for a professional fertilizer applicator certificate shall;</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Pay a fee of $100; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Pass an examination given by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Recertification. A certification shall be renewed annually by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Applying to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Annually attending 2 hours of continuing education course or courses approved by the Department, or by reexamination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Paying the recertification fee of $100; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Complying with all other requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Duration and Renewal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A professional fertilizer applicator certificate is valid beginning January 1, or whenever obtained, until the following December 31. For a certificate due to expire on June 30, 2022, the new expiration date is December 31, 2022.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If an application for renewal of a professional fertilizer applicator certificate is received by the Department more than 30 days after the expiration date of the certificate, the applicant is subject to a $30 late fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An individual who has not renewed the certificate within 12 months of its expiration shall be required by the Department to retake the examination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Examinations for Professional Fertilizer Applicator Certificate."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each applicant for certification shall pass a written examination given by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Each applicant shall register with the Department at least 1 month before the scheduled examination date.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall give the examination at least once a year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>There is a $10 fee for each reexamination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department shall publish and maintain a list of all certified professional fertilizer applicators on its website.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Business Licenses."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each location that employs a person who is paid to fertilize turf shall have a license as provided under §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An applicant for license or renewal of a business license shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Apply to the Department on a departmental form;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Designate an employee who is a certified professional fertilizer applicator; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pay a $50 fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Vehicle Identification Requirement. If the business provides turf fertilization services for hire, the business license number, preceded by the letters “MDA,” shall appear on any service vehicle used on a job site.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Duration and Renewal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A license is valid beginning January 1, or whenever obtained, until the following December 31. For a license due to expire on June 30, 2022, the new expiration date is December 31, 2022.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If an application for renewal of a business license is received by the Department more than 30 days after the expiration date of the license, the applicant is subject to a $30 late fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Renewals may be issued to licensees provided they have a record of compliance with the requirements of this chapter and continue to employ at least one certified professional fertilizer applicator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Each licensee shall immediately notify the Department in writing if there is a change in business ownership, name, address, phone number, or certified professional fertilizer applicator.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Trained Employees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The licensee shall annually register with the Department each person who applies fertilizer for hire under the direct supervision of a certified professional applicator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>There is a $15 fee for each employee registered.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Each trained employee shall receive initial and annual training in fertilizer application as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Each employer shall document the time and dates of required training. Training shall be completed before the employee is registered with the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department shall issue a registration card to each trained employee. Trained employees shall carry their registration card at all times when fertilizing turf, and shall show the registration card at the request of the Department. Upon termination, the trained employee shall return the identification card to the employer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Registration is valid from January 1, or whenever registered, until the following December 31. For a registration due to expire on June 30, 2022, the new expiration date is December 31, 2022.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>If an application for renewal of a registration of a trained employee is received by the Department more than 30 days after the expiration date of the registration, the applicant is subject to a $30 late fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The employer shall notify the Department immediately after the termination of a trained employee, and shall return the registration card to the Department within 15 days.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Upon request, the Department may approve the training program of any outside agency, educational institution, or company.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="General Requirements for the Application of Fertilizer."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A professional fertilizer applicator or trained employee may not:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Apply fertilizer intended for use on turf to an impervious surface; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Apply fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorus to turf:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>At any time when the ground is frozen;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Within 15 feet of waters of the State, however, if using a drop spreader, rotary spreader with a deflector or a targeted spray, then the distance may be reduced to 10 feet; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>In an amount that is inconsistent with the annual recommended rate established by the University of Maryland (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E1, COMAR 15.20.07.02).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A professional fertilizer applicator or trained employee may not apply enhanced efficiency fertilizer to turf:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At a rate exceeding 2.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet of nitrogen per year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Before March 1 or after November 15 of any calendar year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In excess of 80 percent of the total annual recommended rate of nitrogen established by the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E1, COMAR 15.20.07.02); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Having a release rate in excess of 0.7 pounds per 1000 square feet of nitrogen per month.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Except as specified for enhanced efficiency fertilizer, neither a professional fertilizer applicator, nor a trained employee may apply fertilizer to turf:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At an application rate of more than 0.7 pounds per 1000 square feet of water-soluble nitrogen; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>At an application rate of more than 0.9 pounds per 1,000 square feet of total nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Except as provided for in §C(2) of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A professional fertilizer applicator or trained employee shall apply nitrogen or phosphorus to turf only from March 1 through November 15 of any calendar year; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>From November 16 through December 1, a professional fertilizer applicator or a trained employee may apply up to 0.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet of water-soluble nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Soil Testing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided for in §B of this regulation, a professional fertilizer applicator or trained employee shall obtain a soil test prior to any initial application of P2O5 and prior to any second application of nitrogen to a management unit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A soil test is not required if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The nutrient application is made for the purpose of establishing turf on bare ground; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The nutrient application is made in accordance with the seeding recommendations of the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02):</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The land has been disturbed such as by construction or tillage; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A lawn patch product is used.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a soil test, that is not more than 3 years old, exists for the property, it shall be used to determine the appropriate P2O5 application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Section B of this regulation does not authorize a professional fertilizer applicator or a trained employee to apply fertilizer containing phosphorus to turf when over seeding without basing the application on the results of a soil test.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Any subsequent fertilizer applications to the same management unit shall be based on the results of a soil test.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Soil tests are valid for 3 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The soil test shall be obtained from a laboratory which uses a method that is approved by the University of Maryland for use in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Soil tests shall be associated with individual properties or management units.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>The University of Maryland shall identify laboratories that follow the soil testing methods and procedures recommended for use in Maryland. Professional fertilizer applicators must convert the soil test value for phosphorus to the equivalent University of Maryland Fertility Index Value to determine the appropriate University of Maryland Extension recommendation for P2O5 (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual II-B, COMAR 15.20.07.02).</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Phosphorus Restrictions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Neither a professional fertilizer applicator, nor a trained employee may apply an organic or natural organic fertilizer containing phosphorus to turf unless;</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A soil test taken not more than 3 years before the application indicates a low or medium level of phosphorus as determined by the equivalent University of Maryland FIV;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The fertilizer application rate does not exceed the rate recommended by the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E1 and I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The fertilizer is a low phosphorus fertilizer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Neither a professional fertilizer applicator, nor a trained employee may apply a fertilizer, which is not an organic or natural organic fertilizer, containing phosphorus to turf unless either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The application is made based on the results of a soil test taken not more than 3 years before the application and the application rate does not exceed the rate recommended by the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E1 and I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02); or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The application is made for the purpose of establishing turf on bare ground and the application is made in accordance with the seeding recommendations of the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02), and either:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The land has been disturbed such as by construction or tillage; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A lawn patch product is used.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Other Nutrient Sources."> <text>In determining the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer that may be applied, professional fertilizer applicators shall account for the amount of nutrients known to have been applied in any compost, effluent or other organic nutrient sources, or soil conditioners as specified by the Department, and make necessary adjustments to comply with the annual University of Maryland Extension recommendations (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E1 and I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements for Licensees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The records required by this regulation shall be kept in a form approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Each licensee shall maintain for 3 years records of each fertilizer, or non-fertilizer nutrient application. The following information shall be recorded, when applicable:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name of applicator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Date of application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Size of the area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Address of the property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Fertilizer analysis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Rate of fertilizer application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Total amount of fertilizer used; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>An original or legible copy of the label of the fertilizer used.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The records required under this section shall be made available for inspection at the Department’s request.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Annual Reporting."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each licensee shall submit an annual report to the Department on a form designated by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This report shall be submitted by March 1 of each calendar year and information provided will summarize fertilizer applications in the previous calendar year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Failure to submit this report by March 1 may result in the suspension of a business license or professional fertilizer applicator certificate.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Assessment of Civil Penalty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may impose a civil penalty on a person who violates any provision of Regulations .02—.14 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may impose a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for a first violation, and a civil penalty of not more than $2,000 for each subsequent violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Each day a violation occurs under this section is a separate violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The total penalties imposed on a person for violations of this section that result from the same set of facts and circumstances may not exceed $10,000.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>In assessing a civil penalty imposed under this regulation, the Department shall give consideration to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation, the extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator, but uncorrected by the violator, and the extent to which the violator exercised reasonable care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any actual harm to human health or to the environment, including injury to, or impairment of, the use of the waters of this State or the natural resources of this State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The cost of control;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The nature and degree of injury to, or interference with, general welfare, health, and property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The extent to which the location of the violation, including location near areas of human population, creates the potential for harm to the environment or to human health and safety; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The extent to which the current violation is part of a recurrent pattern of the same or similar type of violation committed by the violator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A person aggrieved by any decision of the Department over the assessment of a civil penalty imposed under this chapter may appeal under Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Unless a stay has been granted, a person against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this regulation shall promptly pay the penalty to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Non-Professional Fertilizer Applicators."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A non-professional fertilizer applicator may not;</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Apply fertilizer intended for use on turf to an impervious surface;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Apply fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorus to turf:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>At any time when the ground is frozen;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Before March 1 or after November 15 of any calendar year; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Within 15 feet of waters of the State, however, if using a drop spreader, rotary spreader with a deflector or a targeted spray, then the distance may be reduced to 10 feet.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A non-professional fertilizer applicator may not apply enhanced efficiency fertilizer to turf:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At a rate exceeding 2.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet of nitrogen per year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In excess of 80 percent of the total annual recommended rate of nitrogen established by the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E1 and I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>That has a release rate in excess of 0.7 pounds per 1,000 square feet per month of nitrogen; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Before March 1 or after November 15 of any calendar year.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Except as specified in §B of this regulation, for enhanced efficiency fertilizer, a non-professional fertilizer applicator may not apply fertilizer to turf:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At an application rate of more than 0.7 pounds per 1,000 square feet of water-soluble nitrogen;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>At an application rate of more than 0.9 pounds per 1,000 square feet of total nitrogen;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>That contains less than 20 percent slow-release nitrogen; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>In an amount that is inconsistent with the annual recommended rate established by the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E1 and I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Phosphorus Restrictions. A non-professional fertilizer applicator may not apply a fertilizer containing phosphorus to turf unless either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The application is made based on the results of a soil test taken not more than 3 years before the application, and the application rate does not exceed the rate recommended by the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E1 and I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02); or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The application is made for the purpose of establishing turf on bare ground, and the application is made in accordance with the seeding recommendations of the University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Nutrient Management Manual I-E2, COMAR 15.20.07.02) and either:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The land has been disturbed such as by construction or tillage; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A lawn patch product is used.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Counties, municipalities, or other political subdivisions of the State may enforce this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Exemptions."> <text>Educational institutions and researchers may apply to the Department for an exemption to these regulations for research, education, and demonstration purposes.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§8-801—8-806, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .04 and .06 under new Chapter, Fertilizer Application Requirements for Land Not Used for Agricultural Purposes, adopted effective May 13, 2013 (40:9 Md. R. 789)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.03 adopted effective October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .05 adopted effective October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .05D amended effective May 16, 2022 (49:10 Md. R. 562)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .07 adopted effective October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .07D amended effective May 16, 2022 (49:10 Md. R. 562)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .08 adopted effective October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .08F amended effective May 16, 2022 (49:10 Md. R. 562)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations 09—.17 adopted effective October 28, 2013 (40:21 Md. R. 1780)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="11" heading="Maryland Agricultural Certainty Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter establishes the requirements and standards to be met for agricultural operations to achieve voluntary certification under the Maryland Agricultural Certainty Program and the privileges and responsibilities that arise through certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The purpose of the Program is to accelerate the implementation of best management practices to meet State agricultural nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment reduction goals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>This chapter also establishes a program for certifying professionals qualified to review and evaluate agricultural operations that apply or are enrolled in the Program.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agricultural Certainty”, “Certainty”, or “Program” means the Maryland Agricultural Certainty Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agricultural operation” or “operation” means a business or activity where a person tills, crops, keeps, pastures, or produces an agricultural product, including livestock, poultry, plants, trees, sod, food, feed, or fiber by in-ground, out-of-ground, or other culture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Agricultural sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment” means sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment that originate from an agricultural operation’s land or animals. This does not include sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment that originate from residential, municipal, industrial, or a commercial activity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Best management practice” or “BMP” means a conservation or pollution control practice that manages soil loss due to farming practices or manages animal wastes or agricultural chemicals so as to minimize movement of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment into waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Certainty agreement” means a written agreement between the owner or operator of an agricultural operation and the Department, as provided under this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Certified verifier” means an individual certified by the Department under this chapter to review, inspect, and evaluate conditions, records, and management of an operation for purposes of qualifying for and maintaining compliance with the Maryland Agricultural Certainty Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Department” or “MDA” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Department of the Environment” or “MDE” means the Maryland Department of the Environment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Farm parcel” means agricultural land that is separately described by deed or tax parcel.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Holds an interest” means a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Has any ownership interest or any other legal or equitable interest in an operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has any outside employment relationship with the owner or operator of the operation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has a relationship to the owner or operator of the agricultural operation as spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandchild, grandparent, step-parent, step-child, step-sibling, step-grandchild, or step-grandparent.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Interfamily transfer” means a transfer of ownership or management of an operation between or among individuals who have a familial relationship including parent, spouse, child, sibling, grandchild, grandparent, step-parent, step-child, step-sibling, step-grandchild, or step-grandparent.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Maryland Nutrient Tracking Tool” or “MNTT” means a Department-approved online platform with a performance-based calculation component that enables users to analyze agricultural parcels and their management to determine baseline compliance with the more stringent of the nutrient loading baselines outlined in either the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for each watershed or the local TMDL that has been adopted for an impaired water body including Watershed Implementation Plan goals and any other nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment control requirements. Through site- and operation-specific data inputs, the calculation component can generate multiple management scenarios and compute the nutrient reductions achieved by the application of agricultural best management practices.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Nutrient management plan” or “NMP” means a plan that complies with the requirements of COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08 that is prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of manure, fertilizer, biosolids, or other plant nutrients in order to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimize nutrient loss or runoff; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Maintain the productivity of soil when growing agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Person” means the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Soil conservation and water quality plan” or “SCWQP” means a farm plan approved by a local soil conservation district to minimize soil erosion and to minimize the movement of sediment, animal waste, nutrients, or agricultural chemicals into waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Total maximum daily load” or “TMDL” means an estimate set in accordance with Clean Water Act requirements which establishes the amount of a particular pollutant, in this case nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment inputs, that a water body can assimilate and still meet water quality standards.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Watershed Implementation Plan” or “WIP” means a plan required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for achieving the pollution reduction goals and allocations necessary in implementing the Chesapeake Bay TMDL.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided by this regulation, a person who operates an operation is eligible to apply for the Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An application for agricultural certainty shall include a farm parcel in its entirety but need not include all farms or farm parcels under the management of a person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An operation or a part of an operation defined as a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) in COMAR 26.08.01.01B or any operation in the process of applying for a CAFO permit is not eligible for certification under the Program.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Certification Process — Agricultural Certainty."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who applies for certification for an operation shall submit to the Department the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An application on a Department form that includes a farm parcel in its entirety but need not include all farm parcels under the applicant’s management;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Documentation from the local soil conservation district that the current SCWQP for the operation is fully implemented to address all soil conservation and water quality issues;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A map identifying the location and boundaries of the operation showing field identification numbers and location of BMPs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A current NMP that is fully implemented and is developed for the operation in accordance with regulations adopted by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A report from a certified verifier engaged by the applicant that contains the information specified in §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A certified verifier who complies with §C of this regulation and is engaged by the owner or operator of an operation to prepare a certified report in support of an application under §A of this regulation shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Inspect the operation before making the report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Review all relevant records, including but not limited to those provided in §A of this regulation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Prepare a report on a Department form, supplemented by the verifier, that confirms the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The SCWQP provided by the applicant for the operation is being fully implemented and addresses all nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment runoff issues on the operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The NMP provided by the applicant for the operation is being implemented in accordance with applicable Department regulations COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The agricultural management and BMPs implemented on the operation which enable that operation to meet the approved local or Chesapeake Bay TMDL baseline requirements as determined by an analysis using the MNTT; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>No deficiencies exist and no corrective measures are needed on the operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person who holds an interest in an operation may not act as a certified verifier for that operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Prior to approving an application for certification under the Program, the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Shall review the application and information submitted to assure that it is complete, true, and accurate and notify the applicant of any deficiencies;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Shall notify MDE by providing a copy of the application or any portion of the application as requested by MDE, after receipt of which MDE shall advise the Department if:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The operation holds or has applied for a permit from MDE;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>MDE will participate in an inspection of the operation, with the verifier if requested by MDE; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Either:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>MDE approves the operation, if the operation holds or has applied for a permit from MDE, for participation in the Program; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Any conditions are required to be satisfied by the operation, if the operation holds or has applied for a permit from MDE, before MDE would approve the operation for participation in the Program;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Shall determine the compliance status of the operation and applicant with all the Department’s laws, regulations, and permit conditions applicable to nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Shall review information submitted by the certified verifier to assure that it meets the requirements set forth in this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>May inspect the operation, with the verifier if requested by the Department, and request records pertaining to the SCWQP, NMP or management otherwise related to addressing nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment issues on the operation in order to verify the application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Shall retain as required by law the application, information, and records in a manner that protects its confidentiality prior to certification and retain all records and information in a manner that protects the identity of the person applying in perpetuity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A certification may be approved if the Department determines that an operation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Meets the laws, regulations, rules, and permit conditions applicable to the operation at the time of certification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has no outstanding conditions resulting in movement of nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment that impacts water quality;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Receives approval from MDE if the operation is permitted or has an application submitted to be permitted by MDE;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Is managed under a current SCWQP that fully implements BMPs to address all nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment runoff on the operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Manages fertility using a current NMP fully implemented in accordance with COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Is in compliance with all State and federal laws, regulations, and permit conditions related to agricultural sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment on the operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Meets the agricultural nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment reduction thresholds required for achieving the local and Chesapeake Bay TMDLs approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at the time of certification as determined by MNTT; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Enters into the Certainty agreement required under §F of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The person responsible for the management of an operation approved for the Program shall enter into a Certainty agreement with the Department identifying requirements for maintaining the certification including:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Continued compliance with applicable local, State, and federal laws, regulations, and permit requirements pertaining to nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment control;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maintenance and full implementation of a current NMP;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintenance of BMPs that address nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment control, and are part of the SCWQP and any other BMPs necessary to achieve certification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Meeting record-keeping and annual reporting requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Agreeing to site reviews and inspection of records at least once every 3 years to verify current conditions on the operation and compliance with certification requirements and recognizing that the Department reserves the right to inspect more frequently if it determines a need;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Agreeing to notify the Department no later than 60 days prior to any change in the owner or operator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Agreeing to notify the Department as soon as practicable, but in any case no later than 60 days after the occurrence of any condition or event which would impact the certification under the Program, including but not limited to property title transfers or changes in the operation, pursuant to Regulation .05A(2) of this chapter, that result in or increase nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment runoff or change adherence to TMDL baseload; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Agreeing to address within a time frame established by the Department, after concurrence by MDE, any nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment runoff problem arising on a certified operation during the certification period through no fault of the operator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Agricultural Certainty Certification — General Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless suspended or revoked, a certification remains in effect for a 10-year period following approval by the Department if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The operation remains in compliance with the Certainty agreement set forth in Regulation .04F of this chapter and all other requirements of the Program under this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>There are no changes to the operation, including no change in the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Operator with the exception of an interfamily transfer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Owner when it results in a change in the operator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Average annual number of animal units of 10 percent or greater; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Operation resulting in the operation being ineligible for the Program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An operator who has any of the changes identified in Regulation .04F(7) or Regulation .05A(2) of this chapter shall notify the Department within 60 days and:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Execute an agreement with the Department to bring the operation into compliance to meet certification requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Reapply for certification; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Terminate the Certainty agreement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For changes in the operation that would not result in suspension of certification under this chapter, including rotation of crops, implementation of additional BMPs, or other changes that receive prior approval by MDA provided they do not exceed the allowable TMDL threshold for the operation, MDA may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Approve changes not deemed significant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Require documentation be provided by a new MNTT analysis verifying TMDL thresholds continue to be met.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>When nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment runoff conditions arise as a result of natural causes, such as severe weather events, which are not within the control of the operator of the operation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The certification holder shall provide notice within 60 days to the Department describing the condition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department will coordinate a site inspection with MDE and may assign a certified verifier to conduct a site inspection; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Following a Department review, the Department, with concurrence from MDE, shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Allow continuation under the Program if a repair, correction, or installation of additional BMPs to address the nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment runoff is accomplished within a reasonably expeditious time frame identified by an agreement executed with the Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Suspend certification if the Department finds the condition arose due to mismanagement, lack of maintenance, or the failure of the operator of the operation to provide notice to the Department within 60 days.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Following the site inspection that takes place nearest to year 9 during the 10-year certification period, the operator shall take steps to address compliance issues with any new local, State, or federal law, regulation, or requirement that took effect during the Certainty agreement period.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>After each review conducted at the direction of MDA under Regulation .06D of this chapter, the certified verifier shall list on a Department form and orally explain to the certification holder any current or proposed laws that will require changes to the operation before the 10-year completion of the Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>At the expiration of the certification, an operation shall be in compliance with all laws, regulations, or permit requirements relating to nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment runoff control that are in effect at that time.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>An operation certified under Regulation .04 of this chapter may apply and qualify for recertification if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The application and information required under Regulation .04A of this chapter reflect current conditions as submitted to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All the requirements in Regulation .04 of this chapter are met; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>MDE approves the recertification if an operation is permitted or has a permit pending with MDE.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>An operation that is certified:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §I(2) and (3) of this regulation, is not subject during its 10-year certification period to local and State laws, regulations, or requirements enacted or adopted after the date of certification that require the reduction of agricultural sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment runoff to meet the Chesapeake Bay TMDL, including requirements of the WIP, local TMDLs, or other water quality requirements for managing agricultural sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is not protected from enforcement or corrective actions related to water quality impacts or violations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Is not protected from the application or enforcement of any other laws, regulations or permits, including the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Corrective actions issued under Environment Article, Title 4, Subtitle 4, Annotated Code of Maryland, which addresses, for example, water pollution abatement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Environment Article, Title 5, Annotated Code of Maryland, which addresses, for example, water resource management including flood control and water appropriations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Environment Article, Title 9, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland, which addresses, for example, water supply systems, sewage systems, refuse disposal, and sewage sludge;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Environment Article, Title 9, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland, which addresses, for example, discharge permits;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Environment Article, Title 16, Annotated Code of Maryland, which addresses, for example, wetland protection programs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Natural Resources Article, Title 8, Subtitle 18, Annotated Code of Maryland, which addresses, for example, land use and protections in the Atlantic Coastal and Chesapeake Bays Critical Area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Growth tier maps adopted by a local jurisdiction under Land Use Article Title 1, Subtitle 5, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Any State or local law or regulation that regulates the development of land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The federal Clean Water Act;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Regulations governing the management of agricultural sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment initiated by the Department before the enactment of authorizing legislation for this program, including regulations to revise the phosphorus site index or to implement a phosphorus management tool, regardless of when they are adopted; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Any applicable laws enacted or regulations adopted prior to certification that are subject to a delayed implementation period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Verification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The applicant shall employ a certified verifier who does not hold an interest in the agricultural operation, as defined by this chapter, in order to apply to the Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A certified verifier shall provide the following to the Department for the applicant’s application:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Information as required on a Department form;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A map delineating the boundaries of the operation and showing field identification numbers and locations of BMPs on site; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Information following an inspection and review of records for an operation applying for a Certainty agreement including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Review of the NMP and documentation of any outstanding issues;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Review of the SCWQP and documentation that it:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Is fully implemented to address nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment runoff; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Fails to address any conditions causing movement of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment that are impacting water quality;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A farm summary showing outcomes of the MNTT assessment and an operation’s status in meeting the Chesapeake Bay or local TMDL; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any additional BMPs implemented to meet the nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment thresholds required by the local or Chesapeake Bay TMDL for the watershed in which the operation exists.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>As required by law, the verifier shall keep confidential information that is collected and submitted to the Department as a result of the verification for the Certainty certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Reviews.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall schedule site reviews and inspection of records at least once every 3 years for each certified operation under the Program to verify current conditions on the operation and compliance with Certainty agreement requirements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall notify MDE of operations that are to have site reviews conducted and provide copies of the verifier’s report of interim site reviews.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department shall assign a certified verifier who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Meets qualifications set forth in Regulation .07 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Does not hold an interest in the certified operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Is not the same individual who conducted the verification of the operation at the time of application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Certified verifiers assigned by the Department to conduct interim inspections and reviews shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contact the operator in advance of the inspection to make an appointment so the operator or his representative can be present and have records available for the review;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Present a photo identification at the time of the inspection as proof of credentials; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Adhere to all biosecurity and other measures necessary to protect health and safety at the operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Information collected and submitted as a result of the inspection shall be maintained by the verifier and the Department, as required by law, in a manner that protects the identity of the person who holds the certification for the operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>An operator shall receive a copy of the report prepared by the verifier conducting a review and inspection of records within 30 days and:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>May dispute information in the report that the operator believes is in error or does not accurately represent the condition or management of the operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>May address any concerns about the verification report in writing with the Department and copy the verifier within 30 days of receiving a copy of the report.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The Department may conduct an investigation that may include additional inspections to determine the actual condition and management of the operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Documentation Required by Verifiers.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The certified verifier shall provide a certified report within 30 days of the interim site review and inspection to the Department as required on a Department form that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A map providing the boundaries of the agricultural operation that shows field numbers and the locations of any BMPs on site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A review of the NMP and implementation records to assure the plan is in accordance with COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08 and is being fully implemented and documentation of any outstanding issues and necessary corrections; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Either:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A review of the SCWQP and documentation that it is implemented and that it addresses all nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment runoff issues; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A documentation of site evaluation and any nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment runoff issues that are outstanding or require correction, including necessary BMP maintenance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>At each review the certified verifier shall provide the operator of the operation with information concerning any applicable new laws, regulations, or requirements that have become effective since the operation’s Certainty agreement and that will need to be addressed at the end of the 10-year Certainty agreement period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Department Certainty Agreement Compliance Requirements.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall determine whether an operation is in compliance with all State water quality programs in effect when the Certainty agreement was signed pertaining to nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment, and review information submitted from the verifier to ascertain compliance with the Certainty agreement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall notify and provide information received from the verifier to MDE. MDE may seek additional information to assure compliance with laws, regulations, permits, or other requirements administered by MDE, including a site visit if needed and in coordination with the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department may take the following actions based on the outcome of any inspections or the report of the verifier:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Determine if an operation is in compliance with the Certainty agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Corroborate any conditions identified as a violation of the Certainty agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Corroborate any conditions creating nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment runoff and determine, in concurrence with MDE, whether they:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Occurred through any fault of the operator; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Can be corrected in a timely manner under a written agreement with the operator; or</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Address any failure to comply with any of the conditions described in Regulation .04E of this chapter or in the Certainty agreement as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Provide a time frame for the operator to come into compliance as a condition of retaining any existing Certainty agreement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Require the operator to apply for a new Certainty certification without penalty when changes to the operation have occurred; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>After an opportunity for a hearing, revoke or suspend the certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Verifier Certification Program."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An individual may not be certified or act as a certified verifier as provided by this chapter unless the individual meets the following requirements to be established by the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Education and experience;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Training; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Continuing education.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may certify a verifier who meets the following eligibility requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has 3 or more years experience developing SCWQPs or qualifies as a U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Conservation Planner level II;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is certified in Maryland to prepare NMPs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Is certified in the use of the MNTT.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A verifier may remain certified only by completing at least 6 hours of Department approved training within the first year, and 12 hours thereafter for each 3-year certification period, as well as completing a training session on the use of any modified version of the MNTT within 6 months of the modification.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who manages an operation certified under the Program shall submit annually to the Department on or before March 1, information for the previous calendar year, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A Department reporting form that includes the person’s signed certification that the operation has been managed in accordance with the Certainty agreement and will continue to be so managed during the upcoming calendar year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Current NMP records including soil analysis within the last 3 years for land receiving nutrients, fertility recommendations for crops produced, nutrients applied by source and crop type, and a map identifying the location and boundaries of the operation showing field identification numbers and location of BMPs; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>SCWQP records related to implementation of any additional BMPs during the reporting period.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person who operates an operation certified under the Program shall keep the following records:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All NMPs and records used to manage soil fertility during the certification period and for 3 years following the termination of any certification; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The SCWQP for the operation and any updates, information, or documentation that addresses plan implementation or installation of additional BMPs during the certification period and for 3 years following the termination of any certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Public Access to Program Information.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>As required by law all records concerning any agricultural operation shall be maintained by the Department and shall be made available for public review, in a manner that provides the greatest public disclosure of records and information, after the Department redacts records to protect the identity of the person to whom the record or information relates.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Maryland Public Information Act applies to any request for records.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Annual Reporting.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall submit an annual report to the Governor, the Senate Education, Health, and Environmental Affairs Committee, and the House Environmental Matters Committee on or before December 31, beginning in 2014.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The annual report shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Acres of agricultural land certified under the program and presented by county and watershed at a scale consistent with that applied by the MNTT;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Presentation of information to protect the identity of the certified agricultural operator in accordance with the requirements of the law; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Recommendations of the Oversight Committee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Denial, Suspension, or Revocation of Certificate."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Certification of Operations.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>After the opportunity for a hearing, the Department may deny, suspend, or revoke the certification of any person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>No longer meets the eligibility requirements of the Program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Violates any of the regulatory requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Provides misleading, false, or fraudulent information in applying for a certification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Provides the Department with any misleading, false, or fraudulent report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Fails to promptly provide any report or to allow the Department access to inspect any operation certified under the Program or any record required to be kept by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Fails to comply with Certainty agreement for the operation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Performs any action or fails to act in such a manner that the Department determines provides other good cause to deny, suspend, or revoke the certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall give notice and hold hearings in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department may consider the following when assessing whether suspension or revocation is warranted:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator, but uncorrected by the person;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The extent to which the person exercised reasonable care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any actual harm to human health or to the environment or the natural resources of the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The available technology and economic reasonableness of controlling, reducing, or eliminating the violation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The extent to which the current violation is part of a recurrent pattern of the same or similar type of violation committed by the person.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Certification of Verifiers.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>After the opportunity for a hearing, the Department may deny, suspend, or revoke the certification of any verifier who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>No longer meets the eligibility requirements of the Program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Violates any of the regulatory requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Provides the Department with any misleading, false, or fraudulent report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Fails to promptly provide any report or any record required to be kept by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Fails to adhere to confidentiality requirements required by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Fails to meet continuing education requirements for verifiers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Is determined to be negligent or incompetent; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Performs any action or fails to act in such a manner that the Department determines provides other good cause to deny, suspend, or revoke the certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall give notice and an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department may consider the following when assessing whether suspension or revocation is warranted:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator, but uncorrected by the person;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The extent to which the person exercised reasonable care; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Any actual harm to human health or to the environment or the natural resources of the State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Agricultural Certainty Oversight Committee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>There is an Agricultural Certainty Oversight Committee. The responsibility of the Oversight Committee includes:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Assisting in the development of regulations that govern the Program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Monitoring and providing oversight on the development and implementation of policies and standards relating to the Program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Evaluating performance of the Program and making recommendations for improvements to the Program based on information provided by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Reviewing the draft annual report and other information to make recommendations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Oversight Committee meets when necessary to provide recommendations for developing regulations for the Program and thereafter a minimum of once a year to carry out its responsibilities.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§8-1001—8-1013, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: January 5, 2015 (41:26 Md. R. 1571)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="12" heading="Agricultural Nutrient and Sediment Credit Certification Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>This chapter establishes the requirements and standards for the generation and certification of nonpoint source nutrient and sediment credits on agricultural land under the Agricultural Nutrient and Sediment Credit Certification Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The purpose of the Program is to reduce the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment entering the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries through support of a form of water quality trading utilizing a market-based strategy.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>This chapter also establishes the protocols for approving professionals qualified to evaluate and review agricultural operations for eligibility and compliance with the Program.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Aggregator” or “Broker” means a person who collects and compiles credits from individual agricultural non-point sources to resell them.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agronomic Practice” means an annual crop or soil practice that reduces or minimizes nutrient or sediment loss. Examples include but are not limited to cover crops, conservation tillage, reductions in nitrogen fertilizer application, and precision agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Agricultural Land” or “Farm” means a parcel of land which has an Agricultural Use Assessment as determined by the Department of Assessments and Taxation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Agricultural operation” or “Operation” means a business or activity where a person tills, crops, keeps, pastures, or produces an agricultural product, including but not limited to livestock, poultry, plants, trees, sod, food, feed or fiber by in ground, out-of-ground, or other culture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Animal Waste Management System Plan” means a plan developed and approved by a local soil conservation district to identify and address the management of animal waste generated on an agricultural operation, including operation and maintenance guidelines.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Baseline” means the level of nutrient and sediment reduction, expressed as an annual nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment per-acre loading rate that an agricultural nonpoint source seller’s operation is required to achieve before the seller becomes eligible to enter the trading market and sell credits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Best Management Practice” or “BMP” means an agronomic, conservation, or pollution control practice, installation, or structure that manages soil loss, nutrients, animal wastes, or agricultural chemicals so as to minimize their movement into the waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Category 1 Practice” means a BMP as determined by the Department and approved by the Chesapeake Bay Program Partnership that is currently in widespread use, with fully documented installation and maintenance specifications and well-established and understood nutrient and sediment removal efficiencies.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Category 2 Practice” means a BMP that is currently in use and is acceptable by the Department but nutrient removal efficiencies are not well established, or a practice required by state regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Category 3 Practice” means a new or innovative technology or practice as determined by the Department that is not in widespread use and for which no recognized nutrient removal efficiency exists.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Credit” means a pollution reduction credit or the unit of trade that is equal to one pound of nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment delivered to a specified location per year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Land Conversion Practices” means a change in management on an agricultural operation that involves a shift to less nutrient-intensive agricultural land use, including but not limited to the installation of forest or grass buffers, the retirement of highly erodible lands, or the switch to alternative or perennial crops.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Maryland Nutrient Tracking Tool” or “MNTT” means a Department approved online performance-based calculation platform that enables users to analyze agricultural parcels and their management to determine eligibility and credit generation potential for participation in the Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Nonpoint Source” means a source of pollution that is not from a single point of origin or from a specific outlet. Nonpoint source pollution generally results from land runoff, precipitation, atmospheric deposition, drainage, seepage, or hydrologic modification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Nutrient and Sediment Credit Certification Program” or “Program” means the program established under this Chapter giving the Maryland Department of Agriculture the authority to certify, verify, and register agricultural nonpoint source nutrient and sediment credits in support of market-based trading activities to fund agricultural practices that enhance water or air quality or both by further reducing nutrient or sediment runoff, movement, or emissions below baseline.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Nutrient Management Plan” or “NMP” means a plan that complies with the requirements of COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08 that is prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of manure, fertilizer, biosolids, or other plant nutrients in order to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Minimize nutrient loss or runoff; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Maintain the productivity of soil when growing agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Nutrient or Sediment Reduction” means the difference between the nutrient and sediment loads delivered to a specified location achieved by implementation of best management practices and the current load after meeting eligibility requirements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Operator” means a person who is the owner of an agricultural operation or a lessee who has the owner’s expressed consent to operate or manage an agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Person” means the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Soil Conservation and Water Quality Plan” or “SCWQP” means a farm plan approved by a local soil conservation district to minimize soil erosion and to minimize the movement of sediment, animal waste, nutrients, or agricultural chemicals into waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Structural Practice” means a practice acceptable by the Department that reduces or minimizes nutrient or sediment loss through the installation or construction of physical edifices, barriers, or systems to trap, block, or filter pollutants, including but not limited to manure sheds, fencing, grassed waterways, and constructed wetlands.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Total Maximum Daily Load” or “TMDL” means the amount of a particular pollutant, in this case nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment inputs, that a water body can assimilate and still meet water quality standards.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Watershed Implementation Plan” or “WIP” means the plan developed by a jurisdiction showing how the jurisdiction, in partnership with federal and local governments, will achieve and maintain the pollution reduction goals and allocations necessary in implementing the Chesapeake Bay TMDL.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility for Credit Certification."> <text>Except as provided by this regulation, the following persons are eligible to have credits certified by the Department in support of nutrient and sediment trading activities:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An owner or lessee, with owner’s consent, who operates an agricultural operation and who demonstrates that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The agricultural management and BMPs implemented on the operation enables that operation to meet baseline requirements pursuant to Regulation .04 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A current Nutrient Management Plan is being implemented in accordance with COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A SCWQP has been developed and approved for the agricultural operation and all implemented BMPs are documented, operated, and maintained in accordance with the SCWQP;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An adequate manure storage and runoff system is maintained as required in an Animal Waste Management System Plan, or in the case of a Confined Animal Feeding Operation, a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan or SCWQP and NMP as required by permit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The lessee has been granted authority for control of the land for the term of the credit certification; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The operation is in compliance with all applicable local, State, and federal laws, regulations, and programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A broker or an aggregator, as defined by this chapter, who provides proof of the following to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Demonstration of permission by the credit generator to submit for certification and sell nutrient and sediment credits; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Demonstration that the credit generator meets all requirements as provided by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Any person engaged in reducing impacts of agricultural nutrients or sediment to the environment and who provides proof of the following to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Demonstration of permission by the landowner to conduct nutrient or sediment removal activities; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Demonstration that the credit generator is conducting nutrient or sediment removal activities in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and programs.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Baseline Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may not generate nutrient or sediment credits, unless that person’s agricultural operation meets a baseline level of nutrient or sediment reduction which is the more stringent of either the applicable Chesapeake Bay or local TMDL as calculated on the entire farm in aggregate using the MNTT analysis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person may meet the baseline nutrient reduction requirement by using only the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Current agronomic practices, including cropping rotation as documented in the operation’s current NMP and SCWQP; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Existing operator adopted or installed structural or other BMPs; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Existing structural or other BMPs implemented with federal, State, or private cost-share assistance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Agricultural Nutrient and Sediment Credit Generation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the provisions of §B of this regulation are met, agricultural nutrient and sediment credits may be generated from any of the following improvements that the Department determines will provide additional reductions in the discharge of farm nutrients and/or sediment:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Existing or planned agronomic practices;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Land conversion practices; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Installation of structural practices.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Acceptable practices shall be consistent with the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The practice does not result in the idling of whole or substantial portions of productive farmland to provide nutrient credits as determined by the Department after considering location, soil type, slope, and potential soil loss or erodibility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The practice is approved by a local soil conservation district but was not implemented using state or federal cost-share monies, or private cost-share monies identified by the Department, and is currently maintained by the owner/operator at his own expense; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The practice was implemented through a state or federal cost-share program, or a mitigation banking program, or with private cost-share monies identified by the Department, but has exceeded its specified lifespan as determined under the cost-share contract and is deemed by the Department as now being properly maintained by the owner/operator at his own expense.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Credits generated on the agricultural operation will be calculated by the Department as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Category 1 Practices will be calculated using the MNTT.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Category 2 Practices require review by an independent technical panel established by the Department to ascertain the appropriate nutrient and sediment removal efficiencies and determine effectiveness estimates.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Category 3 Practices, together with specifications for installation, operation, maintenance, and monitoring, require scientific analysis and technical review by an independent technical panel established by the Department to evaluate nutrient and sediment removal efficiencies and determine best practice definitions and effectiveness estimates.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Lifespan of Credits."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A practice may only generate credits when it is installed or placed into operation and all appropriate operation and maintenance guidelines are being followed. The Department shall consider the total estimated annual credits generated from any practice installed and given final certification within a given year to be generated the following year starting January 1.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Credits may be certified for more than 1 year but shall only be applied annually.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department shall include the number of years a credit is valid as part of the credit registration.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Approval and Registration of Credits."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person who applies to the Department for approval of agricultural nonpoint source nutrient or sediment credits shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Complete and sign a Certification and Registration Form provided by the Department and furnish a copy of the Farm Summary Worksheet generated by MNTT;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provide a copy of the current NMP; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Provide a copy of the current SCWQP with a map identifying the location and boundaries of the operation and showing field identification numbers, field acreage, and the location of BMPs, together with the specifics of any credit generation proposal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall review each application to determine the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That the baseline requirements are met as provided in this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That all credit generating improvements qualify for certification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>That both the landowner and the operator have consented in writing to all of the requirements under this chapter, including but not limited to inspection or suspension or revocation of credits by the Department and the waiver of confidentiality for any information the operation submits to the Department, including but not limited to the operator’s NMP and SCWQP;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>That all legal and regulatory compliance requirements are met; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>That credit calculations and all other information are correct and that the applicant has complied with all the requirements of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department or its designee shall visit any farm operation to verify the baseline requirements and that the applicant’s credit generation proposal is effective and appropriate in reducing the discharge of nutrients or sediment from the farm. In addition, credits certified pending implementation of a BMP or other improvement are subject to further inspection to verify that the proposed generating practice is in place and functioning correctly.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Proposals for improvements for generating credits will be reviewed by the Department and may include requirements for demonstration projects, the collection of sufficient data to evaluate results, and any other information needed to determine the validity of the credits. In some cases, development of the specifications and certification of the credits could be a multi-year process.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may issue a pre-certification of credits based on pending implementation of the proposed improvements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Department shall only certify credits once the practice or practices generating those credits are installed and fully operational.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Upon approval and verification of any application for agricultural nutrient and sediment credits, the Department shall assign each credit a unique registration number and provide for their registration on the Department’s online trading registry.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The Department shall document the basis for denying an application and provide this information in writing to the applicant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>As required by law, all records concerning the certification of credits shall be maintained by the Department and shall be made available for public review in accordance with requests made under the Maryland Public Information Act.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Annual Verification and Reporting."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All trades involving agricultural credits certified by the Department require, at minimum, annual credit verification and reporting. Inspections will be scheduled as appropriate to practice type.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person who buys certified credits shall employ a Department-approved verifier who does not hold an interest in the agricultural operation generating the credits or was not involved in the original application or qualification of the credits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Following the site visit to the agricultural operation, the verifier shall provide the following to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Information as required on a Verification Report form; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Information following an inspection and review of the records for the agricultural operation including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Review of the current NMP and documentation that it continues to be implemented in accordance with COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Review of the current SCWQP and documentation that it continues to be implemented and addresses all nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment runoff and emission issues as specified;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Documentation that the agricultural management and BMPs implemented continue to meet baseline compliance and that all credit generating practices continue to be operated and maintained in accordance with the terms of the trading contract and the requirements of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Confirmation that no deficiencies exist and no corrective measures are needed or a detailed description of deficiencies and required corrective actions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Department, Maryland Department of the Environment, the buyer and the seller, and the owner or operator shall receive a copy of the report prepared by the verifier conducting any inspection and records review within 30 days of the site visit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may issue a corrective action order which allows a time period for repairs or other remedies to bring any deficiencies into compliance. The Department may require additional inspections and written substantiations that corrective measures have been taken. Any such action or actions by the Department does not preclude the Maryland Department of the Environment from exercising its authority when agricultural credits are incorporated into issued discharge permits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Within 30 days of receiving a copy of the report, an owner or operator may dispute information in the report that owner or operator believes is in error or does not accurately represent the condition or management of the operation and may address these concerns in writing to the Department with a copy the to the verifier.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Departmental Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall schedule site inspections and records reviews on at least 10 percent of all traded credits annually.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall assign an approved verifier who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Meets qualifications provided in Regulation .10 of this chapter; does not hold an interest in the agricultural operation generating certified credits;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Does not hold an interest in the agricultural operation generating certified credits; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Is not the same individual who conducted either the assessment or verification of the operation at the time of application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Verifiers assigned by the Department to conduct interim inspections and reviews shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Contact the operator in advance of the inspection to make an appointment so the operator or his representative can be present and have records available for the review;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Present a photo identification at the time of the inspection as proof of credentials; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Adhere to all biosecurity and other measures necessary to protect health and safety at the operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>An owner or operator and all other affected parties shall receive a copy of the report prepared by the verifier conducting the inspection and review of the records within 30 days of the site visit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An owner or operator may dispute information in the report that the operator believes is in error or does not accurately represent the condition or management of the operation and may address these concerns in writing with the Department and copy the verifier within 30 days of receiving a copy of the report.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Department may conduct an investigation that may include additional inspections to determine the actual condition and management of the operation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Verifier Approval Protocol."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An individual may not be approved to act as a verifier as provided by this chapter unless the individual meets the following requirements to be established by the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Education and experience;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Training; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Continuing education.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may approve a verifier who meets the following eligibility requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has 3 or more years of experience developing SCWQPs or qualifies as a U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service Conservation Planner level II;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is certified in Maryland to prepare NMPs in accordance with applicable Department regulations COMAR 15.20.04; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Has completed Department training in the use of the MNTT.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A verifier may only remain eligible to perform verifications by completing at least 6 hours of Department approved training within the first year, and 12 hours thereafter every 3 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>After the opportunity for a hearing, the Department may deny, suspend, or revoke the approval of any verifier who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>No longer meets eligibility requirements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Violates any of the regulatory requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Provides the Department with any misleading, false, or fraudulent report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Fails to promptly provide any report or any record required to be kept by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Fails to meet the continuing education requirements for verifiers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Is determined to be negligent or incompetent; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Fails to act in such a manner that the Department determines provides other good cause to deny, suspend, or revoke approval.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Enforcement."> <text>Suspension or Revocation of Credit Certification.</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may suspend or revoke certification of an agricultural nonpoint source nutrient credit for any violation of Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 9, Annotated Code of Maryland, any violation of this chapter, or the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Failure to adopt or install any practice or activity certified pending implementation in conformity with standards and specifications or to differ substantially from the original credit generation proposal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Failure to maintain any practice or activity as required by the operation’s SCWQP;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Failure to take timely steps to remedy any deficiencies reported by the verifier, in response to a corrective action order by the Department, or as a result of a Department review;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Failure to sell credits during their certified lifespan; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Performance of any other action or failure to act in such a manner that the Department determines provides other good cause to suspend or revoke the certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notice of the suspension or revocation of credit certification will be issued with an effective date to the credit owner and all other affected parties and will also be published on the trading program website;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An owner or operator may dispute findings of violations or failures by requesting an opportunity to be heard in writing to the Secretary of Agriculture within 30 days of receiving notice; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Suspension or revocation of credit certification does not preclude any other punitive action that may be taken by another public or private entity.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103(b), 8-902, and 8-903, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 9, 2016 (43:9 Md. R. 531)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective August 29, 2016 (43:17 Md. R. 956)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective August 29, 2016 (43:17 Md. R. 956)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective August 29, 2016 (43:17 Md. R. 956)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07C, G amended effective August 29, 2016 (43:17 Md. R. 956)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective August 29, 2016 (43:17 Md. R. 956)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09A, D amended effective August 29, 2016 (43:17 Md. R. 956)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="13" heading="Food Processing Residuals Utilization Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose and Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The purpose of this chapter is to establish requirements and control measures for the utilization of food processing residuals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>These regulations specifically apply to all persons engaged in the following utilization activities of food processing residuals, or any product containing this food processing residuals, which is utilized in the State of Maryland:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Transportation, Regulations .12—14. of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Storage facility, Regulations .15—.19 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Agricultural land, Regulations .20—.23 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person may not engage in food processing residuals utilization in a manner which will likely:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Cause an undue risk to the environment or public health, safety, or welfare as may be determined by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Create a nuisance; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Cause a discharge of constituents to waters of this State.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Incorporation by Reference."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The performance and technical standards provided in this chapter pertaining to the land application and storage of food processing residuals are found in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, which is incorporated by reference in COMAR 15.20.07.02.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person utilizing food processing residuals in conjunction with an agricultural operation shall follow the performance and technical standards set forth in the following chapters of the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For utilization pertaining to the land application of food processing residuals, Section I (“Nutrient Recommendations”), Subsection D (“Nutrient Application Requirements”):</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Chapter I: General Guidelines;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Chapter II: Definitions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Chapter III: Setbacks for Nutrient Application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Chapter V: Temporary Field Stockpiling (Staging) for Stackable Organic Nutrient Sources Materials (Equal to or less than 75% Moisture Content); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Chapter VI: Food Processing Residuals; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For utilization pertaining to the storage of food processing residuals, Section III (“Animal Manure and Waste Management”), Subsection G (USDA-NRCS Field Office Technical Guide — Maryland/D.C. Area - Waste Storage Facility — 313):</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Chapter I: Conservation Practice Standard — Waste Storage Facility — Code 313 (2024);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Chapter II: Operation & Maintenance Plan — Waste Storage Facility (313) (2021);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Chapter III: Maryland Conservation Practice Construction Specification — Waste Storage Facility (2021); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Chapter IV: Statement of Work — Waste Storage Facility (313) — Maryland (2024).</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Food Processing Residuals.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Food processing residuals” or “FPRs” means an organic material that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Generated by processing agricultural commodities for human or animal consumption and includes:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Food residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Food coproducts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Food processing wastes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Food processing sludges;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Organic material that is mixed or otherwise commingled with food residuals, food coproducts, food processing wastes, food processing sludges; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vi)"> <text>Any other incidental material whose characteristics are derived from processing agricultural products for human consumption or animal consumption; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Registered with the State Chemist as a soil conditioner.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Food processing residuals” does not include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Digester digestate that has not been mixed or commingled with food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Animal and poultry manures that have not been mixed or commingled with food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Biosolids (i.e., Class A or Class B sewage sludge), as defined by the Maryland Department of the Environment in COMAR 26.04.06.03B(7);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Compost, that is, the product of composting in accordance with the standards established by the Secretary of Agriculture under Agriculture Article, §6-221, Annotated Code of Maryland, including food residuals:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Diverted from final disposal in a refuse disposal system for composting under COMAR 26.04.13; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Obtained from residential curbside or drop-off programs, including pre-consumer and post-consumer food scraps, transported to a composting facility in accordance with COMAR 26.04.11;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Spent mushroom soil; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Water treatment plant residuals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Other Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Agricultural Land.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Agricultural land” means more than 10 acres of land used to produce food, feed, fiber, sod, animals, plants, trees, or plants in containers (pots), or for out-of-ground production.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Agricultural land” includes smaller, noncontiguous land parcels that total more than 10 acres.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agricultural operation” means each physical site where a person engages in a business that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Grows, raises, keeps, pastures, or otherwise produces a farm product, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Any agricultural, horticultural, vegetable, or fruit product of the soil; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Livestock, poultry, eggs, dairy products, nuts, honey, and every product of the farm, a forest, or an orchard; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A gross annual income of $2,500 or more; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Eight or more animal units.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Animal unit” means 1,000 pounds of live animal weight.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Applicant” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A person who owns or operates an agricultural operation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A commercial broker or commercial hauler who has contracted with the owner or operator of an agricultural operation to have food processing residuals utilized at that operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Collection” means any action involved in the gathering or subsequent placement of food processing residuals, or any other product containing food processing residuals, into a vehicle, container, or any other vessel for transportation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Commercial broker” means a person who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For commercial purposes, assumes temporary control of food processing residuals from an agricultural operation or a food processing plant and transports or arranges the transport of this material to an importing agricultural operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is not working for or under the control of an agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Commercial hauler” means a person engaged in the business of hauling, transporting, moving, or land-applying food processing residuals as a contract agent for a farm operator, commercial broker, or food processing plant under the direction of the operator, broker, or processing plant.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Constituent” means any component of food processing residuals that is an organic, inorganic, or combination of organic and inorganic substances.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Container” means either an open or closed receptacle with a load capacity of 1 metric ton or less that includes a bucket, box, carton, vehicle or trailer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“County” means as defined in the Agriculture Article, §1-101(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Cover crop” means a cereal grain or cereal grain mix that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is planted:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Following the harvest of summer crops for the purpose of the seasonal protection of soil, the assimilation of residual nitrogen left from a previous crop, and the continued mineralization of nitrogen; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>In accordance with the “Maryland Winter Cover Crop Program Requirement” for seeding rate, planting dates, and planting methods as published on the Department’s website.; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has germinated and attained at least 70 percent surface coverage on the field as measured by the standard line-transect method.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Field ditch” means a channelized waterway that, as provided in the USDA-NRCS National Cooperative Soil Survey, is not within:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Floodplain soil-mapping unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Hydric soil that is mapped as a narrow, elongated feature in a fluvial or floodplain position; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Soil-mapping unit that has a slope class of “B” or steeper.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Food processing residuals generator” means a person who owns or operates a facility that processes food processing residuals to be utilized in this State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Groundwater” means water below the land surface in a saturated zone.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Holding tank” means a watertight receptacle that has a capacity up to 20,000 gallons, which is used, or intended to be used, for the temporary storage of food processing residuals for land application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Land application” means the placement of food processing residuals, or any other product containing food processing residuals on or mixed with or injected into land used to support an agricultural crop.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Nuisance” means unreasonable interference with the quality of life of the public because of the characteristics of noise, odor, vectors, solids, vapors, liquids, or gases that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Causes distress or potential health impacts to members of the public or residents or users of properties adjacent to a site where food processing residuals is being utilized or has been utilized; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Falls outside the protection afforded an agricultural operation under Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §5-403, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Nutrient Management Plan” has the meaning stated in COMAR 15.20.08.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Pasture land” means land on which animals feed directly on forage and grain crops, such as legumes, grasses, or grain stubble.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Permittee” means a person who holds a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“State” means the State of Maryland unless otherwise specified.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Storage facility” means a waste storage facility that meets USDA-NRCS Waste Storage Facility No. 313 Conservation Practice Standards or an equivalent standard determined by a professional engineer for the containment of wastes generated by agricultural production or processing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Surface water” means all waters of the State that are not groundwater.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>“Tidal wetland” has the meaning stated in COMAR 26.04.02.02.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>“Transportation” means the movement or conveyance of food processing residuals or any other product containing food processing residuals by road.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(28)"> <text>“Treatment” means a process, which alters, modifies, or changes the biological, physical, or chemical characteristics of food processing residuals.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(29)"> <text>“USDA-NRCS” means the United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(30)"> <text>“NRCS Waste Storage Facility No. 313 Conservation Practice Standard” means the technical standards for waste storage facilities set forth in USDA-NRCS Field Office Technical Guide which is incorporated by reference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(31)"> <text>“Utilize food processing residuals” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Handling or storing food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Using food processing residuals for land application; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Transporting food processing residuals to or from a generator of food processing residuals or to or from an agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Right of Entry."> <text>The person applying for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit shall agree, as a condition for the issuance of the permit or any other authorization or approval issued by the Department, to allow the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture or the Secretary’s authorized representatives, at reasonable times and upon presentation of credentials, to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Enter upon the premises or a location where any records are required to be maintained under the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, authorization, or approval issued by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Have access to and copy any records required to be maintained under the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, authorization, or approval issued by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Enter upon a food processing residuals utilization site and inspect any area covered by the permit including any field where food processing residuals have been land-applied or storage facility holding food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Sample any soils, vegetation, food processing residuals, or other materials on the site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Perform any activities to determine compliance status with the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, authorization, or approvals issued by the Department or the applicable regulations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Obtain any photographic documentation or evidence.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Requirements for Utilizing Food Processing Residuals."> <text>A person may not utilize food processing residuals in this State unless the material is:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Registered as a soil conditioner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Analyzed by an accredited laboratory, using methods that are:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Acceptable to the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Part of the laboratory’s scope of accreditation: and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>At a minimum, analyzed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For moisture, nutrients (total nitrogen, total phosphate, and total potash), heavy metal contaminants (arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, and zinc), and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs, as determined by Method 8270E Semivolatile Organic Compounds by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>As otherwise required by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Sampling and Testing Requirements for Food Processing Residuals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person utilizing food processing residuals in this State shall submit to the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An acceptable methodology that shall be used to obtain a representative composite food processing residuals sample of the material; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>On an annual basis, the results of laboratory analysis of the representative composite food processing residuals sample in accordance with the following requirements:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All sample analyses shall be performed by an accredited laboratory, using methods that are acceptable to the Department and part of the laboratory’s scope of accreditation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The analysis shall, at a minimum, test for moisture, nutrients (total nitrogen, total phosphate, and total potash), heavy metal contaminants (arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, and zinc), and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs, as determined by Method 8270E Semivolatile Organic Compounds by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry) and as otherwise required by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless otherwise agreed upon by persons utilizing food processing residuals in conjunction with an agricultural operation, the requirement set forth in §A of this regulation shall be performed by a commercial broker, commercial hauler, or other person who is permitted to transport the material to an agricultural operation. This person shall be identified in the permit application to utilize food processing residuals in conjunction with an agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Require analyses for food processing residuals constituents other than those identified in §A(2) of this regulation to adequately assess the quality of food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Require additional analyses to adequately assess the quality of food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Approve a request to reduce the testing frequency for analyzing any of the constituents identified in §A(2) of this regulation if the Department determines that a sufficient number of food processing residuals samples have been analyzed to characterize food processing residuals quality on an annual as well as seasonal basis; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Reject an analysis for good cause.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Department may consider the failure to submit the analysis required in §A of this regulation to be grounds for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Revocation or modification of any Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, authorization, or approval previously issued by the Department for the utilization of that generator’s food processing residuals; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Denial of any new, material alteration or extension, modification, or renewal application for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, authorization, or approval issued by the Department for the utilization of that generator’s food processing residuals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements for Food Processing Residuals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person utilizing food processing residuals in the State shall submit to the Department the following information on a form provided by the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The date the food processing residuals leaves that food processing residuals generator’s plant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The amount of food processing residuals leaving that generator’s plant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The county and site where the food processing residuals are being utilized; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Other information required by the Department including information relating to the registration of the material with the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The information required to be submitted under §A of this regulation shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Collected each year on a quarterly basis as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>January 1 through March 31;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>April 1 through June 30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>July 1 through September 30; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>October 1 through December 31; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Submitted to the Department within 30 days from the close of each quarter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Failure to submit the reports required under this regulation may constitute grounds for revocation or modification of any Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit issued by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Unless otherwise agreed upon by persons utilizing food processing residuals in conjunction with an agricultural operation, the requirement set forth in §A of this regulation shall be performed by a commercial broker, commercial hauler, or other person who is permitted to transport the material to an agricultural operation. This person shall be identified in the permit application to utilize food processing residuals in conjunction with an agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permits."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may not utilize food processing residuals, or any product containing this material, without first obtaining a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit from the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person who is engaged in the utilization of food processing residuals is subject to the following conditions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Food processing residuals may not be stored, staged, or land applied in a manner that will cause an undue risk to the environment or public health, safety, or welfare, or in a manner that causes or is likely to cause a discharge of constituents to the waters of the State;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Food processing residuals may only be land applied on agricultural land in accordance with a nutrient management plan prepared by a certified and licensed nutrient management consultant in accordance with the requirements specified in COMAR 15.20.04 and in compliance with COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Food processing residuals transported to a person’s agricultural operation may not be transported from that site to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any other agricultural operation in the State that is not permitted by the Department to receive it; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A site in another State that is not permitted or otherwise authorized to receive food processing residuals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In the event of an odor complaint pertaining to the utilization of food processing residuals, the Department shall investigate the complaint and, after investigating the complaint, notify the person who is utilizing food processing residuals what corrective measures, if any, shall be implemented, such as the temporary cessation of food processing residuals application, additional incorporation measures, or the application of odor control agents, such as lime, potassium permanganate, or other odor control agents.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person may mix food processing residuals with other organic material if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The person demonstrates to the Department that the final utilization of the mixture will not cause an undue risk to the environment or public health, safety, or welfare as may be determined by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The person secures a new N/P/K analysis of the material before land application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A person who mixes or otherwise comingles food processing residuals mixed with other organic materials shall manage this material in accordance with this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Performance Bonds, Liability Insurance, or Other Form of Security."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person applying for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit shall file with the Department a performance bond on a form prescribed or approved by the Department, liability insurance, or other form of security. The performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security shall be payable to the Department and the obligation of the performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security shall be conditioned upon the compliance with the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The amount of the performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For the initial permit to transport food processing residuals to and from an agricultural operation, $10,000;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the initial permit to apply food processing residuals on agricultural land, $30,000; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For the initial permit to store food processing residuals at a storage facility, $100,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department may allow a permittee obtaining several Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permits to utilize food processing residuals in conjunction with agricultural land to file one performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security to satisfy the security requirements for more than one utilization site.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For each additional permit that the applicant seeks, the amount of the performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security shall be 40 percent of the amount required in §B of this regulation up to a maximum amount of $200,000, as shown in the following examples:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Example One: If a person is seeking two storage facility permits and two transportation permits, the bond amount is $154,000,which amount is the sum of the following two figures:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>$140,000 for the two storage permits, that being:$100,000 for the initial permit plus $40,000 (40% of $100,000) for the second permit); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>$14,000 for the two transportation permits, that being:$10,000 for the initial permit plus $4,000 (40% of $10,000) for the second permit); and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Example Two: If a person is seeking four storage permits and four transportation permits, the bond amount, while separately exceeding $200,000, will be capped at $200,000.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Liability under the performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security shall remain in effect until all terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit have been met. The Department may release the performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security after the Department has determined that all terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permits covered by the performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security have been complied with.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security shall be executed by the person applying for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit and obtained from a corporate surety licensed to do business in this State. Instead of a performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security executed by a corporate surety, the person may elect to deposit with the Department cash or negotiable bonds of the federal government or of this State or any other securities acceptable to the Department. The amount of the cash deposit or the market value of any securities shall be at least equal to the required sum of the performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security. The Department shall receive and hold the cash or securities in trust, for the purposes for which the deposit is posted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The obligation of the person applying for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit and of any corporate surety under the performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security shall become due and payable, and all or any part of any cash or securities due and payable, and all or any part of any cash or securities shall be applied to payment of the costs of complying with any requirement of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit if the Department has:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notified the permittee and any corporate surety that the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit have not been complied with, and has specified in the notice the particular noncompliance with the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit terms or conditions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Given the permittee a reasonable opportunity to correct the deficiencies and to comply with all of the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Determined that, at the end of a reasonable length of time, some or all of the noncompliance specified under §G(1) of this regulation remain uncorrected.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Denial of Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall deny an application for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit if the Department finds that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant cannot utilize food processing residuals without causing an undue risk to the environment or the public health, safety, or welfare as may be determined by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicant is violating:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitles 8 and 8A, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Environment Article, Title 9, Subtitle 3, Part IV, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the application is for storing food processing residuals at an agricultural operation, the applicant has not obtained any necessary approval or permits from the county to store this material at this site.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may deny an application for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit if the Department finds that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant is not in compliance with the sampling and testing requirements specified in Regulation .06 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicant is not in compliance with the record-keeping and reporting requirements specified in Regulation .07 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The applicant has insufficient resources to meet the performance bond or other financial securities requirements of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The applicant has failed to submit the applicable Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application fee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The applicant has failed to submit information requested by the Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>For any other good cause as determined by the Department including past violations of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland, and regulations adopted thereunder;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8A, Annotated Code of Maryland, and regulations adopted thereunder; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Environment Article, Title 9, Subtitle 3, Part IV, Annotated Code of Maryland, and regulations adopted thereunder.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Transportation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may issue a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to transport food processing residuals if the equipment to be used, the operation plan, and the destination of food processing residuals meet the requirements established by the Department. A person transporting food processing residuals to an agricultural operation in conjunction with storing or land-applying this material at this site:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Shall load and unload the material on the agricultural operation’s premises; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>May not load and unload this material for these activities on a public road.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Liquid food processing residuals shall be transported in closed watertight vessels or containers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Food processing residuals cake that is less than 75 percent moisture content may be transported in watertight containers, such as dump truck bodies or trailers that are sealed to prevent leakage or in closed body vehicles.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>All State and federal commercial transportation laws must be followed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Transportation — Permit Application Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An applicant for a Food Processing Residuals Permit shall submit to the Department a permit application for each site in Maryland where food processing residuals is to be transported. The applicant shall submit to the Department two completed copies of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application on a form provided by the Department. The applicant shall also submit a performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security required under the provisions of Regulation .09 of this chapter. The application shall include the following completed information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A description of the source, type, and quantity of food processing residuals to be transported, including any previous treatment the food processing residuals has received, such as anaerobic digestion, aerobic digestion, lime stabilization, composting, or dewatering;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A detailed operation plan that includes, when applicable:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A spill or leak clean-up plan describing the procedures for managing and reporting a food processing residuals spill or leak;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Procedures for record keeping and reporting of the food processing residuals to be transported;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Types of equipment to be used for collection, management, washdown, and other operations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Contingency or emergency plans to manage equipment breakdown, spills, and other emergency events;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The destination and a detailed description of the final utilization of the food processing residuals at the destination; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Other information that may be requested by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Permit Application Fees. The applicant shall pay the Department a nonrefundable Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application fee in accordance with the following schedule:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For a new permit application, $50; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For a renewal permit application, $50.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Transportation — Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The permittee shall generate a report containing the following information and maintain all documents used to generate the report for a period of 5 years:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The source, type, and quantity of food processing residuals transported;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The dates of transportation of food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The destinations of food processing residuals (i.e., the address of the agricultural operation);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Other related information regarding the transportation of food processing residuals as required by the applicable Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Other information that may be requested by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The permittee shall submit semi-annually to the Department two completed copies of the report required by §A of this regulation for each year the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit is in effect. The permittee shall submit to the Department the report on a form provided by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Transportation — Modifications of a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may modify a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit for transporting food processing residuals to include a new condition as may be required by a new law or regulation, to clarify permit conditions, or for other good cause.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may modify a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit for transporting food processing residuals upon request by the permittee if the following conditions are met:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The permittee submits to the Department a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit modification application on a form provided by the Department, and all other required information and forms as determined by the Department, with the application including a description of the proposed modification and an explanation as to why the modification is needed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department determines that the proposed modification is in compliance with the applicable requirements of this chapter and will not cause an undue risk to the environment or public health, safety, or welfare.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The following constitute modifications to a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit for transportation of food processing residuals:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Modification to the types of food processing residuals to be transported;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The permittee’s name change;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Modification to the sources of food processing residuals to be transported; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Other modifications as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the Department considers a modification application complete and acceptable, the Department may modify the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may deny a modification application if the permittee is not in compliance with the applicable requirements of this chapter or any of the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit or for other good cause as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Storage Facility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may not issue a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to use, install, materially alter, or materially extend a food processing residuals storage facility until:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The storage facility meets all zoning and local land use requirements of the county where the storage facility is to be located;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The person seeking the permit has obtained any necessary county approval or permits to store the material at the permitted site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The person has provided evidence showing that the structure meets:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The NRCS Waste Storage Facility No. 313 Conservation Practice Standard; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An equivalent standard as determined by a professional engineer;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For an application to renew a permit for a waste storage facility, sufficient evidence showing that the requirements of §A(3) of this regulation continue to be met may include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A visual inspection of the storage facility by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Other evidence determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department may issue a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to use, install, materially alter, or materially extend a food processing residuals storage facility if the applicant demonstrates that the following conditions and requirements will be met:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The person seeking the permit has obtained any necessary county approval or permits to store the material at the permitted site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The person has provided evidence showing that the structure meets:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The NRCS Waste Storage Facility No. 313 Conservation Practice Standard; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An equivalent standard as determined by a professional engineer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The storage facility is designed, constructed, and operated to safely store food processing residuals in a manner that will not cause an undue risk to the environment, public health, or welfare as may be determined by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Public access to the storage facility shall be controlled;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any other conditions required by the Department to protect the public health and the environment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For an application to renew a permit for a waste storage facility, sufficient evidence showing that the requirements of §C(2) and (4) of this regulation continue to be met may include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A visual inspection of the storage facility by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Other evidence determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Storage Facility — Permit Application Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person applying for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit shall submit to the Department a separate permit application for each site where a food processing residuals storage facility is located or is to be installed, materially altered, or materially extended. A person shall submit to the Department two completed copies of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application for a new Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, a modification to a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, or a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit renewal on a form provided by the Department. A person shall also submit a performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security required under the provisions of Regulation .09 of this chapter. The application shall include the following completed information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the applicant is not the owner or operator of the agricultural operation where the storage facility is located or is to be installed, materially altered, or materially extended, the written consent of the owner or operator of the agricultural operation to utilize food processing residuals in conjunction with the operation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A current site plan designating the property boundary lines, the exact acreage of the site, existing and proposed storage facility structures, the location of any wells on the site and within 1/2 mile of the site, any residences or buildings on site and within 1/2 mile of the site, the proximity of the site to major roads in the area and any roads on the site, and surrounding land uses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Tax maps and liber and folio numbers for the parcels of land on which the storage facility exists or will be installed, materially altered, or materially extended and the names of the legal owners of the site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A description of the source, type, and quantity of food processing residuals to be stored;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Engineering plans showing that the storage facility meets:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>NRCS Waste Storage Facility No. 313 Conservation Practice Standard;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An equivalent standard determined by a registered professional engineer prepared, signed, and bearing the seal of the engineer;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The specifications for any liners or soil sealants used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A detailed operation plan that includes, when applicable:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Procedures for sampling, on-site record keeping, and reporting of the food processing residuals to be stored;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Methods and procedures to prevent or control odors and other potential nuisance conditions at the site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Contingency or emergency plans to manage fires, equipment breakdown, spills, and other emergency events; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Methods and procedures for restricting public access to the site;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Information on protection of water resources, including a description of the methods to be used for the protection of ground and surface waters of the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>For a new storage facility, an assessment of the potential environmental impact of the storage facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>For manufactured storage facilities, information showing that it meets:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>NRCS Waste Storage Facility No. 313 Conservation Practice Standard; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An equivalent standard determined by a registered professional engineer; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Other information that may be requested by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Permit Application Fees.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The applicant shall pay the Department a nonrefundable Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application fee in accordance with the following schedule:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For a new permit application, $100; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For a renewal permit application, $100.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For activities, which involve transportation or storage of food processing residuals in combination with any other activities listed in the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application, the Department will issue a single Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to include all activities. For combined activities that include the land application of food processing residuals, the application fees listed for transportation and storage of food processing residuals in Regulations .12 and .16 of this chapter shall be waived.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Notice to County of a Permit Application."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Within 10 days after receiving a permit application that includes storing food processing residuals in conjunction with an agricultural operation, the Department shall mail a copy of the application to the chairman of the legislative body and any elected executive of the county where the food processing residuals is to be stored.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may not issue a permit to operate a storage facility for food processing residuals in conjunction with an agricultural operation or a renewal permit unless the applicant has obtained any necessary county approval or permits to store the material at the site.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In its notice to the county under this regulation, the Department shall request that the county respond to the notice specified in §A of this regulation within 30 days from its receipt.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Storage Facility — Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The permittee shall generate a report containing the following information and maintain all documents used to generate the report for a period of 5 years:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The source, type, and quantity, including documentation of food processing residuals received and stored at the storage facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The quantity, including documentation of food processing residuals transported from the storage facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The dates of transportation of food processing residuals to and from the storage facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The destination and utilization of food processing residuals transported from the storage facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Other related information regarding the storage facility as required by the applicable Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Other information that may be requested by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The permittee shall submit to the Department two completed copies of the report required by §A of this regulation for each year the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit is in effect. The permittee shall submit to the Department the report on a form provided by the Department and in accordance with a schedule established by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Storage Facility — Modifications, Material Alterations, or Extensions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may modify a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to include a new condition as may be required by a new law or regulation, to clarify permit conditions, or for other good cause.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may modify a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit or materially alter or extend a structure for storing food processing residuals upon request by the permittee if the following conditions are met:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The permittee submits to the Department a completed Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit application on a form provided by the Department, and all other required information and forms as determined by the Department, with the application including a description of the proposed modification, material alteration or extension, and an explanation as to why it is needed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The permittee shall pay the Department a nonrefundable fee in in the amount of $50; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Department determines that the proposed modification, material alteration, or extension:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is in compliance with the applicable requirements of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Meets the NRCS Waste Storage Facility No. 313 Conservation Practice Standard or an equivalent standard determined by a professional engineer; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Will not cause an undue risk to the environment or public health, safety, or welfare; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The permittee has obtained any necessary county approval or permits for the proposed change.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department may deny an application to modify a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit or materially alter or extend a storage facility if the permittee is not in compliance with the applicable requirements of this chapter or any of the terms or conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit or for other good cause as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".20" heading="Agricultural Land."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may issue a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to apply food processing residuals on agricultural land if the following requirements are met:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The food processing residuals have been registered by the Department as a soil conditioner and otherwise meets the requirements of the Department to be registered as a soil conditioner;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A nutrient management plan is prepared for the site by a certified and licensed nutrient management consultant in accordance with the requirements of COMAR 15.20.04, and is in compliance with COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Expected crop yields submitted to the Department as part of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application are determined to be in accordance with the requirements in COMAR 15.20.08.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may restrict or apply special provisions for the land application of food processing residuals on fields that are adjacent to or bordering homes, schools, places of worship, hospitals, legal boundaries of incorporated municipalities, or other locations of concern as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Food processing residuals may be applied on agricultural land only if the following requirements are met:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The requirements of §A(1)—(3) of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Requirements concerning minimum buffer distances, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Food processing residuals may not be applied closer than the minimum buffer distance to a feature of concern identified in Table 1 of §C(2)(b) of this regulation, unless the Department establishes an alternate minimum buffer distance in accordance with §C(2)(d) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Table 1 — Minimum Buffer Distances</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For agricultural land located within a critical area as identified by the Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays, food processing residuals:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>May not be land applied within 100 feet of the Mean High-Water Line of tidal waters or the landward edge of tidal wetlands; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>May only be subsurface injected or incorporated between 101 and 1,000 feet of the Mean High-Water Line of tidal waters or the landward edge of tidal wetlands;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Except as otherwise prohibited by law, the Department may modify the minimum buffer distances established in §C(2)(b) of this regulation as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The Department may increase or decrease the minimum buffer distance associated with any feature of concern identified in Table 1 of §C(2)(b) of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The Department may establish minimum buffer distances for features of concern not identified in Table 1 of §C(2)(b) of this regulation, such as particular categories of land use; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>In modifying the minimum buffer distances, the Department may consider the food processing residuals application method, the application rate, adjacent land use, land slopes, vegetated filter strip, the type and condition of any surrounding bodies of water, and any other factor considered relevant by the Department;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Requirements concerning slope, as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Unless modified by the Department in accordance with §C(4)(b) of this regulation, the following requirements concerning slope shall be met:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Food processing residuals may not be applied on a slope that is greater than 15 percent;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Liquid food processing residuals which are surface applied on a slope that is greater than 6 percent shall be applied in accordance with COMAR 15.20.08; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Food processing residuals may be subsurface injected on a slope that is up to 15 percent; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The limits of §C(3)(a) of this regulation may be modified by the Department, but only if the Department determines that sediment and erosion controls or other features at a site, or both, are sufficient to protect the public health and the environment;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Food processing residuals may not be applied when:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The soil is saturated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The ground is flooded, ponded, frozen, or covered with snow; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Weather conditions prevent compliance with the requirement to incorporate the food processing residuals into the soil;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The timing of food processing residuals land application shall be in accordance with the requirements of COMAR 15.20.08;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Food processing residuals shall be applied in a manner approved by the Department using conventional agricultural equipment, such as manure spreaders, spray equipment, or other applicators, or by commercial equipment specifically designed for food processing residuals application on agricultural land, with all conventional agricultural and commercial equipment used for agricultural land application required to be calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations before land application of the food processing residuals begins;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Food crops harvested off food processing residuals land application sites shall meet applicable produce safety requirements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Trucks, tractors, and equipment shall be cleaned or otherwise addressed on the site to prevent drag-out of soil or food processing residuals onto public roads.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".21" heading="Agricultural Land — Permit Application Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person applying for a Food Processing Residuals Permit shall submit to the Department a separate permit application for each agricultural operation where food processing residuals is to be applied on agricultural land (e.g., the USDA Farm Service Agency farm and tract number for each operation).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The applicant shall submit to the Department two completed copies of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application on a form provided by the Department. A person shall also submit a performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security required under the provisions of Regulation .10 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application to apply food processing residuals on agricultural land shall include two completed copies of the following forms provided by the Department and signed and dated not more than 6 months before the receipt of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application by the Department:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the applicant is not the owner of the site where food processing residuals is to be applied, the written consent of the owner (which consent, if the owner agrees, may be valid for a 2-year period);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A site information form completed and signed by the applicant and the farmer or operator of the site where food processing residuals is to be applied; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application to apply food processing residuals on agricultural land shall include two completed copies of the following information:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The sources and types of food processing residuals to be applied, including any treatment the food processing residuals has received, such as anaerobic digestion, aerobic digestion, dissolved air flotation, composting, or dewatering;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A current site plan that includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The location of property boundary lines and field boundaries;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The exact acreage where food processing residual is to be applied;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The location of all buffer distances;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The location of any residences or buildings on site or within 1/2 mile of the site;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>An inventory of any domestic, commercial, or municipal wells on site and within 1/2 mile of the property boundary lines, including water level for the wells if available;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>The location of any on-site stream, spring, seep, pond, drainage ditch or other body of water;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>The location of any on-site area with a slope of 15 percent or greater;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>The location of any on-site bedrock outcropping;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The location of any on-site depression area;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>The surrounding land uses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Other features as determined by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(l)"> <text>A legend identifying the key features on the site plan;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If required by the Department, the results of a laboratory analysis of a representative soil sample, which was obtained from each field not more than 6 months before the receipt of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application by the Department subject to the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All soil samples shall be collected from within the field that would receive food processing residuals in accordance with the requirements in COMAR 15.20.08;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Soil samples may not be collected from buffer distances, restricted areas, or other areas that are not subject to the land application of food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The analysis of the sample was performed by an independent laboratory or other laboratory acceptable to the Department, using standards, procedures, and methods that are acceptable to the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>If requested by the Department, the results shall be accompanied by a description of the method or methods of analysis; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>The analytical results include, at a minimum:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>pH, cation exchange capacity, and soil texture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>If metal analysis has not been previously performed on the field, total cadmium, total copper, total lead, total nickel, total zinc, and total phosphorus; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Any other constituents in the soil that the Department determines necessary to adequately assess the potential impact of the project on public health, safety, and the environment;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A tax map showing the property line, owner, acreage, and liber and folio numbers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A detailed operation plan that includes, when applicable:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Procedures for sampling, record keeping, and reporting of the food processing residuals to be utilized;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Identification of equipment to be used for land-application of food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Methods and procedures to prevent or control odors and other potential nuisance conditions at the site; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Contingency or emergency plans to manage equipment breakdown, spills, and other emergency events; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A list of type of crops or cover species to be grown, which indicate the crop yields as specified in the nutrient management plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A nutrient management plan that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Has been prepared by a certified and licensed nutrient management consultant in accordance with the requirements of COMAR 15.20.04; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is in compliance with COMAR 15.20.07 and 15.20.08; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Other information that may be requested by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may reject an analysis of food processing or a soil sample submitted in accordance with §D(4) of this regulation and require retesting and resubmittal if the Department determines that the method of analysis is inaccurate, or for any other good cause.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Permit Application Fees. The applicant shall pay the Department a nonrefundable Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application fee in accordance with the following schedule:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For a new permit application, $175; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For a renewal permit application, $175.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>For activities, which involve transportation or storage of food processing residuals in combination with any other activities listed in the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application, the Department will issue a single Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to include all activities. For combined activities that include the land application of food processing residuals, the application fees listed for transportation and storage of food processing residuals in Regulations .12 and .16 of this chapter shall be waived.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Holding Tanks. A person permitted to utilize food processing residuals for land application in conjunction with an agricultural operation may use a holding tank for this activity and under this chapter is not required to obtain a permit from the Department to use the holding tank.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".22" heading="Agricultural Land — Record-Keeping and Reporting Requirements for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The permittee shall generate a report containing the following information and maintain all documents used to generate the report for a period of 5 years:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The source, type, and quantity, including documentation of food processing residuals received and applied on the agricultural land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The dates of land application of food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The number and size of the fields where food processing residuals was applied on agricultural land;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Cumulative and annual constituent loading rates including plant-available nitrogen, P2O5, and K2O;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Other related information regarding the land application of food processing residuals as required by the applicable Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Other information that may be requested by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The permittee shall submit to the Department one completed copies of the report required by §A of this regulation for each year the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit is in effect. The permittee shall submit to the Department the report on a form provided by the Department and in accordance with a schedule established by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Within 60 days of land application of food processing residuals, the permittee shall provide the farmer or operator and the legal owner of the site where food processing residuals was applied with a copy of the report required by §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".23" heading="Agricultural Land — Modifications of a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may modify a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit for land-application of food processing residuals to include a new condition as may be required by a new law or regulation, to clarify permit conditions, or for other good cause.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may modify a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit upon request by the permittee if the following conditions are met:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The permittee submits to the Department two completed copies of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit modification application on a form provided by the Department, and all other required information and forms as determined by the Department, with the application including a description of the proposed modification and an explanation as to why the modification is needed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department determines that the proposed modification is in compliance with the applicable requirements of this chapter and will not cause an undue risk to the environment or public health, safety, or welfare.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The following constitutes modifications to a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit for agricultural land application of food processing residuals:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Modification to the site’s nutrient management plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Addition of a crop or cover crop;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Adjustment of approved maximum nitrogen per acre requirements for a different crop or cover crop;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The permittee’s name change;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Addition of a new food processing residuals source or type to be applied;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Increase in the size of the permitted acreage; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Other modifications as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the Department considers a modification application complete and acceptable, the Department may modify the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department may deny a modification application if the permittee is not in compliance with the applicable requirements of this chapter or any of the terms or conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit or for other good cause as determined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".24" heading="Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Term and Renewal."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>As a requirement for maintaining a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, the permittee shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Comply with the applicable State laws and regulations and with the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Maintain a performance bond, liability insurance, or other form of security as required in Regulation .10 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Allow authorized State to conduct inspections as required in Regulation .04 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Provide any other information that may be requested by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department may issue a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to utilize food processing residuals for a term not to exceed 1 year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Except for Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permits for a storing food processing residuals, the Department may renew a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The permittee is in compliance with the applicable State laws and regulations and all of the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The permittee is in compliance with any applicable discharge permit under Environment Article, §9-301, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The permittee submits to the Department 6 calendar weeks before the expiration date of the current Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit or in accordance with the time specified in the current Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit a completed Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit renewal application on a form provided by the Department, and all other required information and forms as determined by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The permittee pays the Department the required renewal application fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>For Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permits for storing food processing residuals, the Department may renew a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The permittee is in compliance with the applicable State laws and regulations and all of the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The permittee meets the requirements specified in §C(1)—(4) of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The permittee is in compliance with any county approval or permit to store food processing residuals at the agricultural operation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The permittee pays the Department the required renewal application fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the Department considers a renewal application complete and acceptable, the Department may renew the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The Department may deny a renewal application to transport or land apply food processing residuals if the permittee is not in compliance with the applicable State laws and regulations or any of the terms or conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit that is subject to renewal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>The Department may deny a renewal application to store food processing residuals if the permittee is not in compliance with the applicable State laws and regulations, any of the terms or conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, or any county approval or permit for storing this material that is subject to renewal.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".25" heading="Transfer of a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit or Ownership."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Thirty days before any change in control or ownership of the permitted property, site, or facility, the permittee shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide the succeeding legal owners of the permitted property, site, or facility by certified mail, with a copy of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The “Owner’s Consent Form” signed by the current owners of the permitted property, site, or facility; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A copy of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit for the permitted site or facility; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Notify the succeeding legal owners of any outstanding permit noncompliance, and, at the same time, submit to the Department a copy of this notification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permits for storing, transporting, or land-applying food processing residuals are not transferable and are only valid for the permittee named in the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit. In order for a different person to become the permittee for a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit for these food processing residuals utilization activities, the new person shall first obtain a new Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit from the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".26" heading="Suspension, Revocation, or Modification by the Department."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>After written notification and an opportunity to request a hearing by the Department, the Department may suspend, revoke, or modify a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit if the Department finds that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>False or inaccurate information was contained in:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The information and forms required as part of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit Application; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Information required as part of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>As part of a regulated activity by a permittee, there is or has been a violation of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland, or regulations adopted under this subtitle;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8A, Annotated Code of Maryland, or regulations adopted under this subtitle;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Environment Article, Title 9, Subtitle 3, Part IV, Annotated Code of Maryland, or regulations adopted under this subtitle;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Applicable requirements of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Any conditions in the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Substantial deviation from approved plans, specifications, or requirements has occurred as determined by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The Department, an authorized representative of the Department, has been refused entry to the premises for the purpose of inspecting or sampling to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Conditions exist which are causing or may cause an undue risk to the environment or public health, safety, or welfare as may be determined by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The permittee has been negligent or incompetent in the utilization of food processing residuals; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Any other good cause exists for suspending, revoking, or modifying the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Immediate Suspension or Revocation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notwithstanding other provisions of this chapter or the terms and conditions of the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, the Department may immediately suspend or revoke a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit if the Department determines there is an immediate and substantial threat to the environment, public health, safety, or welfare.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall deliver written notice of an immediate suspension or revocation of a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit to the permittee which does the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Informs the permittee of the emergency suspension or revocation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Cites the statute, regulation, or condition of the permit with which the permittee has failed to comply that is the basis for the emergency suspension or revocation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Specifies the corrective action to be taken by the permittee and the time period within which the action shall be taken; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Notifies the permittee of the right to request a hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The filing of a hearing request does not stay the revocation or suspension.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An opportunity shall be provided for a hearing if the permittee files a written request with the Department within 10 calendar days of receipt of the notice of suspension, revocation, or modification of a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A hearing provided for in this regulation shall be conducted by the Department at a designated time and place in accordance with the provisions of State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Actions taken in accordance with this regulation do not preclude the Department from taking other administrative, civil, or criminal action for violations of State law, regulations, or terms or conditions of a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If the Department suspends or revokes a Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit, the Department shall send notice of the suspension or revocation to the county in which the Food Processing Residuals Utilization Permit is issued by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".27" heading="Administrative Penalties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the Department determines that a person has violated any provision of Agriculture Article, Title 8, Subtitle 8A, Annotated Code of Maryland, any regulation adopted thereunder, or any condition the permit issued to the person, the Department may impose a civil penalty up to $5,000 per day, not to exceed $50,000 in total penalties for that violation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In assessing a civil penalty imposed under §A, of this regulation, the Department shall give consideration to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The willfulness of the violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The extent to which the existence of the violation was known to the violator but uncorrected by the violator;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The extent to which the violator exercised reasonable care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The extent the violation resulted in actual harm to the environment or to human health or safety;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The nature and degree of injury to or interference with general welfare, health, and property;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The extent to which the current violation is part of a recurrent pattern of the same or similar type of violation committed by the violator; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The extent to which the violation creates the potential for harm to the environment or to human health or safety.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Unless a stay has been granted, a person against whom a civil penalty has been imposed under this regulation shall pay the amount of the penalty promptly to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".28" heading="Tonnage Report and Tonnage Fee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person utilizing food processing residuals at an agricultural operation in the State shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Mail to the Department, on a quarterly basis as provided in §B of this regulation, a statement showing the following information for each month within the quarter:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The total tons of food processing residuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The counties to which it was distributed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The form in which the material was shipped, such as bulk or liquid;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Furnish the Department with a semiannual written statement of the tonnage of food processing residuals transported to the agricultural operation showing every delivery of the material transported to the agricultural operation covering the following applicable 6-month time periods:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>January 1 through June 30 of each year (this statement is due within 31 days after the end of this semiannual period); and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>July 1 through December 31 of each year (this statement is due within 31 days after the end of this semiannual period); and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>For these same 6-month time periods, pay a tonnage fee of $4 per wet ton to the Department (this payment is due within 31 days after the end of each semiannual period) that, after collection, is to be paid to the Comptroller for distribution into the Food Processing Residuals Administration Fund. B. For each of the quarterly time periods listed below, the person shall mail to the Department the information specified in §A of this regulation within 30 days from the close of the applicable time period:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>January 1 through March 31;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>April 1 through June 30;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>July 1 through September 30; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>October 1 through December 31.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If more than one person is involved in the transportation, storage, and land application of food processing residuals utilized at an agricultural operation, unless the persons otherwise agree, the person responsible for reporting the tonnage of material transported to the agricultural operation and paying the tonnage fee shall be the commercial broker, commercial hauler, or other person permitted to transport the material to an agricultural operation. Otherwise, this responsibility shall be performed by the person storing or land-applying this material at this site. The person responsible for reporting the tonnage of food processing residuals to the agricultural operation and paying the tonnage fee and shall be identified in the application or applications to utilize (e.g., transport, store, or land-apply) this material at the agricultural operation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the tonnage report is not filed and the tonnage fee is not paid within 31 days after the end of the semiannual period, a collection fee shall be assessed against the permittee. The amount of fees due constitute a debt and may become the basis of a judgment against this person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person who utilizes food processing residuals in the State shall keep records necessary or required by the Secretary to indicate accurately the tonnage of this material utilized in the State. The Secretary has the right to examine the records to verify any statement of tonnage.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§8-8A-01 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations 01.— .28 adopted as an emergency provision effective October 16, 2024 (51:23 Md. R. 1035); adopted permanently effective March 17, 2025 (52:5 Md. R. 238)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="21" heading="Antifouling Paints"> <chapter num="01" heading="Use and Sale of Antifouling Paints" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March 21, 1988 (15:6 Md. R. 741)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.05 repealed effective May 2, 2011 (38:9 Md. R. 553)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="22" heading="Organically Produced Commodities"> <chapter num="01" heading="Organic Definitions"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Allelochemic” means a substance produced by an organism, or synthesized, that produces one or more reactions in a different species.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Certified handling operation” means a processor, distributor, or retailer that has obtained a permit under this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Commingled” means inseparably mixed or interspersed with other product and not distinguishable from it.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Cover crop”, “nurse crop”, “intercropping”, or “green manure crop” means a crop:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Planted primarily to cover the soil surface as mulch to retain moisture, prevent erosion, and recover and bind available nutrients from the soil for future use; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>To be plowed under to replenish nutrients in the soil and increase soil tilth.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Distributor” means a person who transports or sells food or fiber for resale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Farm” means land or growing area used for agricultural purposes under the management of a permitted producer or applicant for a certification permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Farm unit” means a tillable unit or growing area which has definite boundaries and for which an individual management plan is developed by an applicant for a certification permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Handle” means to sell, process, or package agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Handler” means any person engaged in the business of handling agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Julian date” means a calendar date expressed by three consecutive digits which indicate the day of the year in a series from 001 (=January 1) to 365 (= December 31 of a non-leap year) or 366 (= December 31 of a leap year).</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Logo” means either the Maryland certified organic logo or the Maryland organic certification pending logo.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Organic” or “organic product” means a product that is produced, handled, and certified as provided by COMAR 15.22.02 and 15.22.03.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Organic farming” means a system of farm management practices designed to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Build, replenish, and maintain soil fertility by providing optimal conditions for soil biological activity;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Build soil humus by:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Using crop rotations,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Using organic materials for soil building, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Applying balanced mineral amendments;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Reduce the use of off-farm inputs and reliance on nonrenewable resources; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Use, when necessary, mechanical, botanical, or biological methods to control pests.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Organic farm plan” means a producer-established written plan for the present and future (for the next 3 years or longer) management of an organic farm, including, but not limited to, written plans to rotate crops, build humus, stabilize soil nutrients, and build fertility levels.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Organic handling plan” means a written plan to manage an organic handling operation, including all aspects of processing and handling and other practices as required under this subtitle, and that has been approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Permaculture” means a system of farming, such as orchards, in which the soil is not tilled or renewed annually.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, group of individuals, corporation, association, organization, cooperative, or other entity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Pesticide” means any substance or mixture of substances intended for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or dessicant; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Use as a spray adjuvant such as a wetting agent or adhesive.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Pheromone” means a substance that is produced and discharged by an organism, or synthesized and released, that induces one or more physiological responses in another organism of the same species.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Processor” means a person who manufactures agricultural commodities into agricultural products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Producer” means a person who grows or produces organic food, fiber, seed, planting material, or feed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Raw manure” means agricultural animals' excrement, both solid and liquid, that has not been aged, aerated, composted, fermented, aerobically digested, or otherwise humified or processed in such a way as to improve its value as a biological activator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Retailer” means a person, other than the operator of a restaurant, who sells product at retail to its ultimate consumer.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>“Synthetic” means a substance that is formulated or manufactured by a chemical process or by a process that chemically changes a substance extracted from naturally occurring plant, animal, or mineral sources, except that this term does not apply to substances created by naturally occurring biological processes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>“Vendor” means a person who sells organic food or products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§10-602 and 10-1402, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 adopted as an emergency provision effective May 21, 1991 (18:12 Md. R. 1318); emergency status expired December 1, 1991; adopted permanently effective April 13, 1992 (19:7 Md. R. 746)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Organic Product Standards"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The purpose of these regulations is to establish standards that producers, processors, distributors, and retailers shall follow in order to have products which they have either produced or are handling certified as organic under the Department of Agriculture's organic certification program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Producers are required to implement an organic farm plan which concentrates on sustainable farming practices. These practices include the use of cover crops, recycled animal and plant matter, beneficial insects, crop rotation, and green manures to build and maintain soil fertility and to control major pests.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>These regulations also denote what the processor, distributor, and retailer shall do in order to have products they are marketing as organic under the Department's program continue in that status, such as the implementation of an organic handling plan.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Organic Farm Plan."> <text>A producer shall manage a farm in accordance with an organic farm plan that meets the requirements of this subtitle.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Soil Management."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Soil Fertility. A producer shall promote soil fertility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Crop Rotation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A producer shall rotate all crops, except crops that are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Perennials;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Included in a permaculture system;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Grown in containers; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Grown on a nonrotating basis as approved by the Department as part of the farm plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A producer shall maintain a soil cover during the nonproducing season. The producer may use crop residue, mulch, or green manure crops.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Rotation Plan. A producer shall build and maintain balanced nutrient levels in the soil using such methods as:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Alternation of crops;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Green manure crops;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Cover crops and nurse crops;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Crops with deep roots to stabilize the soil and bring nutrients from the subsoil;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Alternation of plants that use large quantities or small quantities of nutrients;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Plants with allelochemic or mineral-accumulating properties; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Plantings which fix or bind nitrogen.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Manuring.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A producer may not apply raw manure in a way that significantly contributes to water contamination by nitrates or bacteria, such as applying it to frozen ground.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A producer may apply raw manure to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Green manure crops;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Perennial crops;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Crops not for human consumption; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Crops for human consumption, if the crop is harvested 120 days or more following the most recent manure application.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A producer may use manure composted either by aerobic digestion or controlled fermentation, or both.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A producer may use liquid manure slurry if the slurry is aerated by adding carbon to the slurry. Its application is limited in the same manner as the application of raw manure as provided in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Soil Amendments and Fertilizers."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A producer may use any of the substances or practices in §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A producer shall follow label instructions, when applicable, when using the following substances:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Adjuvants and wetting agents (organic);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Animal manures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Biodynamic preparations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Blood meal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Bone meal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Boron/borax;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Chelates and fritted trace elements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Composts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Diatomaceous earth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Dolomite;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Epsom salts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Fallowing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Fish emulsion;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Fish meal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>Gibberellic acid and other naturally occurring growth regulators;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>Green manures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>Greensand;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>Ground oyster, clam, lobster, crab shells;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>Gypsum;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>Hoof and horn meal (low lead);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>Kelp or seaweed meals, extracts, and algae;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>Legumes as cover crops;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>Limestone;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>Microbial compost or soil inoculants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>Micronutrients (dry and foliar);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>Molybdenum (various);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>Mulches;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(28)"> <text>Peat moss;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(29)"> <text>Perlite;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(30)"> <text>Potassium sulfate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(31)"> <text>Rock or colloidal phosphate (low heavy metals);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(32)"> <text>Sawdust;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(33)"> <text>Sulfate of iron, manganese, and molybdenum;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(34)"> <text>Sulfate of zinc, boron, copper;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(35)"> <text>Sulfur (elemental);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(36)"> <text>Sul po mag (langbeinite);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(37)"> <text>Vermiculite;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(38)"> <text>Wood ashes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(39)"> <text>Worm castings; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(40)"> <text>Any other substance or practice approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A producer may not apply any allowed soil amendment or fertilizer at a rate that exceeds that recommended by an agency or a laboratory approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A producer shall forward to the Department the label and any other instructions for any product approved by the Department but not listed in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Seeds, Seedlings, and Planting Stock."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A producer may grow a crop conventionally on the same farm used to grow a certified product only if the crop grown conventionally is visually different from those crops grown organically.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A producer shall use plant propagules produced according to the organic standards as provided in this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Seeds and Planting Stock.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>General Rule. To the extent feasible, a producer shall use organically produced seeds and planting stock, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Bulbs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Plant material derived through tissue culture; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Tubers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Use of Untreated, Nonorganically Produced Materials. If the use of organically produced seeds and planting stock is not feasible, a producer may use the following untreated, nonorganically produced materials to produce an organic crop:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Bulbs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Plant material derived through tissue culture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Tubers; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Seeds, except those used for sprouts.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Use of Treated, Nonorganically Produced Materials.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except as provided in §C(3)(b) of this regulation, a producer may not use treated, nonorganically produced materials to produce an organic crop.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For each of the following limited reasons, a producer may use treated, nonorganically produced bulbs, crowns, seeds, shoots, slips, tissue culture plants, and tubers to produce an organic crop:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Treatments limited to fungicides;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Commercial unavailability of untreated seeds or other organically produced planting stock of the same variety, and documentation of the producer's efforts to source untreated seeds or planting stock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Use of treated seeds, as required by phytosanitary regulations, necessary to prevent endemic diseases; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>An unanticipated or emergency circumstance that makes it infeasible to obtain untreated seeds or other planting stock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Annual Seedlings and Transplants. Unless organic seedlings or planting stock have been destroyed by a natural disaster or other unanticipated circumstance, a producer shall organically produce annual seedlings and transplants.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Perennial Crops. For perennial crops, a producer may use nonorganically produced planting stock to produce a crop which may be sold, labeled, or represented as organically produced only if the planting stock has been maintained under a system of organic management on a certified organic farm for a period of not less than 1 year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Prohibited Sources of Planting Stock.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Except in cases of emergency, if transplants are destroyed by frost, flood, or other natural disaster, a producer is prohibited from using annual transplants that have not been produced according to the standards set forth in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In cases of emergency, a producer shall notify the Department immediately regarding an emergency and submit the notification in writing within 7 days.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The Department shall verify the emergency conditions and determine a maximum length of time during which the organic producer may use annual transplants that have not been produced according to these standards.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A producer may not use genetically engineered seeds, seedlings, and planting stock.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Irrigation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In areas where irrigation is necessary or desired, a producer shall include in the application for a certification permit and the farm plan an analysis of water quality and soil salinization.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A producer who irrigates and who is suspected by the Department to have a water-quality or soil-salinization problem shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Retest for water quality or soil salinization, as required by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Submit tissue-test results for at least one edible crop produced each year until a residue from water contaminated with a substance prohibited by this subtitle is not found in the crop, and at least every third year after that.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Tillage and Weed Control."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A producer may use, subject to applicable label instructions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Timely mechanical or hand cultivation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Crop rotations and use of smother crops;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Mowing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Mulches (organic);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Practices that prevent introduction of weed seeds into fields, such as mowing borders, cleaning equipment, and use of weed-free inputs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Companion cropping or intercropping;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Electrical or flame weeding equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Grazing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Row covers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Isolation techniques;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Biological agents or predators;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Cover cropping;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Soap-based herbicides; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Control of Maryland designated noxious weeds, as required by Agriculture Article, Title 9, Subtitle 4, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If justified and approved by the Department as part of the farm plan, a producer may use:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Film mulches, provided these mulches after use are properly disposed of or held for recycling;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Mulches made of newspapers; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A living or natural mulch.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A producer may not use:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Synthetic herbicides or growth regulators; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Micronutrients at levels which cause significant adverse effects to plants.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Pest and Disease Control."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A producer may use the following practices and substances consistent with applicable label instructions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Adjuvants and wetting agents (organic);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Allelochemics (attractants, deterrents, repellants, locomotor stimulants, and convalescents);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Beneficial insects, predators, parasites;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Biological pesticides and emulsifiers or synergists;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5-1)"> <text>Cryolite;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Cultural practices (timing, environments);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Diatomaceous earth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Dormant oils;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Elemental sulfur or liquid sulfur;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Fiber row covers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Fungicidal soaps;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Garlic, hot peppers, or pureed plants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Growth regulators, only if organically derived;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Herbal or plant-derived controls (deer repellent);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>Hydrogen peroxide;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>Insect extracts or purees;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>Lime sulfur, including calcium polysulfide;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>Mechanical or electrical controls;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>Microbial or viral agents;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>Micronutrients, with toxicity to be avoided;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>Natural barriers, which include fencing and protective coatings from approved natural products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21-1)"> <text>Neem;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21-2)"> <text>Pesticides from naturally occurring organisms;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>Pheromones;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>Physical barriers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>Pyrethrums, if from a botanical source;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>Quassias;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>Resistant varieties;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>1 percent Rotenone;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(28)"> <text>Ryania;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(29)"> <text>Ryania, pyrethrum, and rotenone blends, if from a botanical source;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(30)"> <text>Sabadilla;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(31)"> <text>Seed inoculants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(32)"> <text>Soaps;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(33)"> <text>Sound;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(34)"> <text>Summer oils;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(35)"> <text>Supplemental feeding or management techniques;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(36)"> <text>Timing of plantings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(37)"> <text>Trapping substances;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(38)"> <text>Tree seals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(39)"> <text>Vacuuming;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(40)"> <text>Viral sprays; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(41)"> <text>Vitamins.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A producer may use the following substances and practices subject to applicable label instructions, but only for the purpose listed for each:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Arsenic, which may only be used in pressure-treated wood but not for growing boxes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Baking soda and vinegar, which may be used for sanitation only;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Boric acid, which may not be used on edible plant parts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Chlorine bleach, which may only be used as a disinfectant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Dormant oils (woody dormant);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Hydrated lime, which may be used only as a foliar fungicide;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Lime sulfur, which may be used only as a foliar fungicide; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Summer oil, which may not be used as a herbicide.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If approved by the Department as part of the farm plan, a producer may use the following substances subject to applicable label instructions:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Streptomycin, with overuse to be avoided;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Treated seeds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Bordeaux mixture;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Copper hydroxide;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Copper sulfate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Cupric oxide; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Tribasic copper formulations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A producer using any of the copper-containing products listed in §C(3)—(7) of this regulation shall monitor the soil to avoid copper buildup.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A producer may use traps containing pesticides prohibited by this subtitle that do not contact, and are not added to, soil or water.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>An organic producer may not use:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Synthetically compounded pesticides;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Nonsynthetic compounds, such as:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Arsenic;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Ash from manure burning;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Lead salts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Sodium floualuminate (mined);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Strychnine; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Tobacco dust, or nicotine-based products; or</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Genetically engineered or modified organisms.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A producer shall forward to the Department before use the label and any other instructions for a product not listed in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Buffer Zone."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a producer shall maintain at least a 25-foot buffer zone separating land in a farm unit being managed organically from other land.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A producer may be required by the Department to maintain a buffer zone wider than 25 feet and to take other precautionary measures if the use of the adjacent land presents a threat to the organic status of the farm unit.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Fertility Testing and Monitoring."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may conduct soil and tissue tests at the producer's expense to determine fertility or to evaluate a producer's soil management methods.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>At the producer's expense, the Department may test for heavy metals or other suspected contaminants in the soil and subsoil of any field that receives substantial amounts of manure from off-farm sources.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Handling and Processing Organic Commodities."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A processor, packager, manufacturer, or distributor shall handle organic products in accordance with the approved organic handling plan and shall comply with the requirements of §§B—E of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Cleaning and Processing.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A processor, packager, manufacturer, or distributor shall ensure that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Commodities certified by the Department meet all other applicable United States, Maryland, and local government specifications, inspection standards, and health regulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Before packaging or processing, all commodities are mechanically cleaned to remove used seeds, stones, straws, insects, dust, metal, dirt, and other foreign material in accordance with applicable federal standards;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Processing facilities meet all other applicable federal, State, and local health requirements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Processed flour does not exceed 43°C as it leaves the milling process.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A processor may only process products using:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Freezing, drying, vacuum packing, heat processing, centrifuging, filtering, or wood smoking if the wood has not been treated with synthetic chemicals; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Stainless steel, glass, or food-grade plastic utensils and containers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A processor may not process products using:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Aluminum containers or aluminum utensils; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Ionizing radiation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Raw Ingredients and Additives.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A processor, packager, manufacturer, or distributor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Use primary ingredients from a certified organic source in any processed product sold, with the primary ingredients comprising at least 95 percent of the final product by weight or volume, excluding water and salt; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Specify on each label secondary ingredients from other sources.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A processed product sold by a processor, packager, manufacturer, distributor, or retailer as certified organic may include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Only ingredients from certified organic sources, except ingredients that are not agricultural products, such as salt or wild or uncultivated products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Wild crops, provided they are managed by an organic farm plan which:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Designates the area from which the wild crop will be gathered or harvested,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Includes a 3-year history of the management of the area showing that any substance prohibited by this subtitle has not been applied,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Includes a plan for the harvesting or gathering of the wild crops, assuring that this harvesting or gathering is not destructive to the environment and will sustain the growth and production of the wild crop, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Includes provisions that the producer may not apply any substance prohibited by this subtitle;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Yeasts or other microbial cultures; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Minimal levels of natural sweeteners or salt.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A processed product sold by a processor, packager, manufacturer, distributor, or retailer as organic may include the following secondary ingredients, if approved by the Department, based on a claim that these ingredients are necessary to preserve or to enhance the product:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Natural sweeteners or salt, including organically produced honey, maple syrup, or other natural sweeteners, in an amount greater than that necessary for processing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Natural preservatives, coloring agents, or other additives, such as natural ascorbic acid or beet juice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Thickeners, including pectins, or gelatins; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Carob gum, guar gum, potato starch, corn starch, or carrageenan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A processed product sold by a processor, packager, manufacturer, distributor, or retailer as certified organic may not include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Synthetic preservatives, coloring, flavoring, texturizers, emulsifiers, or additives of any kind;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Ingredients containing sulfites, nitrites, nitrates, microelements, heavy metals, or toxic residues; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Water that does not meet all federal Safe Drinking Water Act requirements.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Packaging of Organic Commodities.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Packaging material for organic commodities shall be free of fungicides, preservatives, or other chemical additives. Plastics subject to depolymerization may not be used as packaging material.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Milled products shall indicate the lot number and the date of processing shown as a Julian date.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Storage and Transportation. A producer, processor, distributor, or retailer:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>May not use any packaging materials, storage containers, or bins that contain synthetic fungicides, preservatives, or fumigants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>May not use any bag or container that previously had been in contact with any substance in such a manner as to compromise the organic quality of the product;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Shall provide reused containers with protective liners as approved by the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Shall protect from birds, rodents, and other pests areas for storage of organic commodities; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>May use diatomaceous earth, bacillus thuringiensis, pheromones, or other natural biological controls in storage areas or during transportation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Post-Harvest Handling."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon prior written approval by the Department, a producer, shipper, packer, or other handler of organic products may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Apply disinfectants, as specified by the Department, to storage containers and handling equipment; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Apply post-harvest sulfur-based fungicides or botanical insecticides.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A producer, shipper, packer, or other handler of organic products may not apply to certified products at any point during post-harvest handling, transporting, or storage:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Synthetic fumigants;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sprouting inhibitors, ripeners, or growth regulators;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Preservatives;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Coloring agents;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Ionizing radiation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Waxes, except beeswax, or oils.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§10-602 and 10-1402, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.12 adopted as an emergency provision effective May 21, 1991 (18:12 Md. R. 1318); emergency status expired December 1, 1991; adopted permanently effective April 13, 1992 (19:7 Md. R. 746)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended as an emergency provision effective January 30, 2001 (28:4 Md. R. 415); amended permanently effective May 14, 2001 (28:9 Md. R. 888)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04C, D adopted as an emergency provision effective May 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 897); emergency status extended at 22:19 Md. R. 1470; adopted permanently effective October 9, 1995 (22:20 Md. R. 1545)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended as an emergency provision effective January 30, 2001 (28:4 Md. R. 415); amended permanently effective May 14, 2001 (28:9 Md. R. 888)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07B amended as an emergency provision effective May 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 897); emergency status extended at 22:19 Md. R. 1470; adopted permanently effective October 9, 1995 (22:20 Md. R. 1545)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended as an emergency provision effective January 30, 2001 (28:4 Md. R. 415); amended permanently effective May 14, 2001 (28:9 Md. R. 888)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08A amended and G adopted as an emergency provision effective May 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 897); emergency status extended at 22:19 Md. R. 1470; adopted permanently effective October 9, 1995 (22:20 Md. R. 1545)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 amended as an emergency provision effective January 30, 2001 (28:4 Md. R. 415); amended permanently effective May 14, 2001 (28:9 Md. R. 888)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended as an emergency provision effective January 30, 2001 (28:4 Md. R. 415); amended permanently effective May 14, 2001 (28:9 Md. R. 888)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11C amended as an emergency provision effective May 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 897); emergency status extended at 22:19 Md. R. 1470; adopted permanently effective October 9, 1995 (22:20 Md. R. 1545)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Organic Products Certification"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Organic Certification Program."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall supervise and administer the Maryland Organic Certification Program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Under the program, a product shall be classified as either Maryland certified organic or Maryland organic certification pending. To obtain the Maryland certified organic classification, the product shall meet the standards established under Regulation .02A of this chapter, including the requirement that it be grown on land on which a substance or practice prohibited under this subtitle has not been applied during the immediately preceding 3 years. To obtain the Maryland organic certification pending classification, the product shall meet the standards established under Regulation .02B of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="What May be Certified."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Maryland Certified Organic. The Department may certify a product as Maryland certified organic only if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>It is grown on land which:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is organically farmed as provided under this subtitle,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Is located in Maryland,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Has not had a substance or practice prohibited under this subtitle applied to it during the immediately preceding 3 years, counting back from the date of harvest of the certified product, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Except as provided for in Regulation .05E of this chapter, has passed through the transitional phase; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Its organic status has been maintained through production, post-harvest handling, distribution, and retail sale, that is, its producer, processor, distributor, and retailer have complied with all of the requirements of this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Maryland Organic Certification Pending. The Department may certify a product as Maryland organic certification pending only if it meets all the requirements imposed by §A of this regulation, except those noted in §A(1)(c) and (d).</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Permits."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In order to sell, market, advertise, or package a product as organic under the Department's certification program, the product's producer, processor, distributor, and retailer shall obtain a permit from the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A permit that a producer, processor, distributor, or retailer obtains under this chapter is valid for 1 calendar year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Transfer of Permit. A permit that the Department has issued under this chapter is not transferable.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Permit Application Procedure."> <text>An organic producer, processor, distributor, or retailer who applies for a permit under this chapter shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Submit a completed application to the Department, as provided under Regulation .05 of this chapter if the applicant is a producer, or as provided under Regulation .07 of this chapter if the applicant is a processor, distributor, or retailer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Pay prescribed fees as provided under Regulation .11 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Be inspected by the Department as provided under Regulation .08 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Perform required soil and residue tests as provided under Regulation .09 of this chapter, if applicable; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Maintain and make available to the Department all records required under Regulation .05 of this chapter if the applicant is a producer, or as provided under Regulation .07 of this chapter if the applicant is a processor, distributor, or retailer.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Producer Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Application. A producer-applicant shall apply for either a Maryland organic certification pending or Maryland certified organic permit. A producer-applicant may apply for a Maryland certified organic permit on land which has not had a substance or practice prohibited under this subtitle applied to it during the immediately preceding 3 years and, except as provided under Regulation .05E of this chapter, has already passed through the transitional phase. In either case, the producer-applicant shall apply on a form provided by the Department for each farm that is to produce organic products. The producer shall submit this application to the Department at least 60 days in advance of the producer's preparation or tilling of the proposed farm unit. In 1991, the Department may waive this 60-day requirement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Organic Farm Plan. In completing the application, a producer-applicant shall provide a detailed organic farm plan that contains all of the information required under Regulation .06 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Renewal. To renew the certification permit, the producer-applicant shall follow the procedures outlined in Regulation .10 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Transitional Phase. Except as provided for in Regulation .05E of this chapter, a producer-applicant shall first apply for a transitional Maryland organic certification pending permit for land on which the producer-applicant intends to grow organic products. If the Department has granted the producer-applicant a transitional Maryland organic certification pending permit with respect to certain land, the producer-applicant may continue using this land under the transitional status for a second and third year, provided the producer-applicant files a renewal application for each of these succeeding years and otherwise complies with the requirements of this subtitle. After 3 years, unless credit already has been obtained under §E of this regulation, the producer-applicant becomes eligible for, and shall obtain, a Maryland certified organic permit for this land or otherwise withdraw the land from the program for the next 2 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Credit. The producer-applicant may apply to have land on which organic products will be grown credited with up to 3 years of transitional status. A producer who requests this credit shall provide records, including test results and affidavits, showing that the requirements of this subtitle have been met. A producer given 3 or more years transitional credit shall be granted a Maryland certified organic permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A producer-applicant shall submit an application, organic farm plan, samples, and test results required by this subtitle for any new acreage to be entered into the certification program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Reverting to Organic Certification Pending Status. If, after a producer-applicant has obtained a Maryland certified organic permit, the producer-applicant is unable to maintain an area of the farm as organic due to high pest levels or other reasons, and the producer-applicant notifies the Department within 5 days of discontinuing organic methods, the permit shall revert to organic certification pending without further penalty.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Record Keeping.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A producer-applicant shall maintain for at least 5 years and make available to the Department, upon request, the following records for each farm unit:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Unit-by-unit fertilization, cropping, and pest management histories, records of any other inputs such as source of seeds and seedlings, as well as harvest date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A detailed history of a substance, if any, applied to fields or products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The names and addresses of persons, if any, who applied the substance in §H(1)(b) of this regulation, and the date, rate, and method of application of this substance;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A copy of the certification application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>A copy of any inspection report; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Records indicating to whom a lot, bin, or any other identifiable quantity of an organic product was shipped.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A producer of both organic and nonorganic products on the same farm shall keep separate records for each.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Organic Farm Plan."> <text>The producer-applicant shall ensure that the organic farm plan contains all of the following information:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The farm size, number of farm units, and farm equipment available;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A map showing details of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The location of each farm unit, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any road, farm lane, building, or other crop near each farm unit;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>For each farm unit, the means by which soil fertility is to be fostered, including a 3-year or longer rotation and nutrient stabilization plan, the terms and conditions under which manure is to be applied to crops, and other plans and methods the producer shall implement in order to be in compliance with Regulations .03 and .04 of COMAR 15.22.02;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>1-year, unit-by-unit crop and pest control plans for each farm area of the farm not under organic management but that is adjacent to an organically managed farm unit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Intended changes or improvements in farm management;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>A description of the required 25-foot buffer zone separating land managed organically from other land as required under COMAR 15.22.02.09;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>A description of facilities and methods that will be used to keep farm equipment from contaminating organically managed fields, with substances prohibited by this subtitle;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>A description of facilities and methods that will be used to store and handle prohibited materials separately from permitted or restricted materials;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>A description of facilities and methods that will be used to prevent contamination or commingling of organic with nonorganic products while growing, harvesting, or packing products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Results of soil, nutritional, and residue analyses required for a permit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>The practices and substances the producer shall use to control pests;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="L."> <text>The proposed irrigation plan, if applicable, including an analysis of water quality and soil salinization;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="M."> <text>The source of seeds and plant materials; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="N."> <text>For wild crops that are to be harvested and marketed under the provisions of this subtitle:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Designate the area from which the wild crop will be gathered or harvested,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Include a 3-year history of the management of the area, showing that no substance prohibited by this subtitle has been applied,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Include a plan for the harvesting or gathering of the wild crops, assuring that this harvesting or gathering will not be destructive to the environment and will sustain the growth and production of the wild crop, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Include provisions that a substance prohibited by this subtitle may not be applied by the producer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Processor, Distributor, and Retailer Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Application and Questionnaire.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A processor, distributor, or retailer applicant shall complete an application on a Departmental form which includes a plan for maintaining the organic quality of products and which covers all applicable post-harvest aspects of processing and handling.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A processor shall notify the Department on a Departmental form each time the processor substantially changes the state of the product, such as when fruit is processed into jelly.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Record Keeping. A processor, distributor, or retailer shall maintain records showing how its physical facilities and management techniques ensure that certified organic products do not mix or commingle with noncertified products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Availability and Retention of Records.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An approved processor, distributor, or retailer shall maintain for at least 5 years, and shall make available to the Department, upon request, the following records:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A detailed history of a substance, if any, applied to organic products, including any pest control methods and materials used on the premises and how the organic product was protected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The names and addresses of persons, if any, who applied the substance in §C(1)(a) of this regulation, and the date, rate, and method of application of this substance;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Records of tests performed on any crop; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Shipping records that enable tracing of the product from its original source through the chain of sale and distribution, including the source of the product and next purchaser of that product and the date of the transaction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The processor, distributor, or retailer shall ensure that the lot, bin, or shipment number remains with the product until it is sold to the consumer.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Inspections."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon receipt of an application and verification of documents submitted by an applicant under Regulations .05 and .06 of this chapter, the Department shall conduct an initial inspection of a farm unit or business facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall conduct an annual on-site inspection of each farm or business facility that has obtained a certification permit under this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person who conducts an inspection under this subtitle may not:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Carry out any inspection in which the inspector or any person employed by the inspector has, or has had during the immediately preceding 4 years, a commercial interest, including the provision of consultancy services in the activity inspected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Accept payment, gifts, or favors of any kind, other than prescribed fees, from the business inspected; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Provide advice concerning organic practices or techniques for a fee, other than fees established under this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A person who conducts an inspection under this subtitle shall have sufficient expertise in organic production or handling techniques to carry out this responsibility and meet the minimum criteria for competence, as defined by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Department shall maintain current information on the relevant qualifications, training, and experience of each member of the personnel involved in the certification process, including subcontractors. The records of training and experience include, but are not limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name and address of training courses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Organization affiliation and position held;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Educational qualification and professional status;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Experience and training in each field of the certification agent's competence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Date of most recent updating of records; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Date and results of most recent performance appraisal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Testing of Certified Organic Products."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A producer-applicant for a permit to use the Maryland organic certification logos on organic products shall submit to the Department all required test results.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When the Department deems it appropriate, the Department may collect from each farm unit or business facility tissue samples to test for pesticide residues or nitrogen levels. Each permit holder shall pay the Department a fee for the tests performed. Random screening tests shall be conducted by the Department, as determined necessary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Department may perform specific analytical tests, at the permit holder's expense, on any organic product suspected of being in violation of this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the Department determines that a product sold or labeled as organically produced under this subtitle contains any detectable residue of a substance prohibited by this subtitle, the Department shall conduct an investigation to determine if this subtitle has been violated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If an investigation conducted under §D of this regulation indicates that a substance prohibited by this subtitle was intentionally applied, or if the residue level is greater than 5 percent of the residue tolerance established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the product may not be sold or labeled as organically produced under this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>If, during an inspection of a farm or business facility, a Department inspector becomes aware of a violation of applicable laws relating to food safety, the inspector shall report the violation to the appropriate health agency.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Renewal Applications."> <text>A permitted producer, processor, distributor, or retailer may renew a certification permit by:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Submitting a renewal application;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Paying a renewal fee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Certifying, when applicable, that the certified farm unit or certified organic handling operation has not produced or handled any agricultural product sold or labeled as organically produced except in accordance with this subtitle; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Otherwise complying with the requirements of this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Application and Renewal Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Producer-Applicant Fees.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Application Fee. An applicant for farm unit eligibility shall pay an initial application fee of $150 to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Inspection Fee.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Amount. An applicant for a certification permit shall pay:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>An inspection fee at an established on-site hourly rate for the Department inspector;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Established mileage rates for the Department inspector and the volunteer inspector; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Costs of required tests performed by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Required Deposit. The applicant shall pay the Department a $300 deposit which shall be applied toward the inspection and testing costs. If the applicant is rejected by the Department or chooses to withdraw the application, the deposit shall be refunded by the Department, except for the costs already incurred by the Department plus $10. If the total costs of certification are less than the deposit, the Department shall refund the excess deposit to the applicant. If the total costs of certification are greater than the deposit, the applicant shall pay any extra costs to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Renewal Fee. After entry into the certification program, a producer shall pay the Department a 1-year renewal fee of $100.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Processor's Fee. A processor shall pay the Department a 1-year permit fee of $100, whether initially applying for a permit or renewing it.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Distributor and Retailer's Fees. A distributor or retailer shall pay the Department a 1-year permit fee of $75, whether initially applying for a permit or renewing it.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Action on Application."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Initial Determination. After receipt of all required verification documents, including inspection reports and the results of any required laboratory analyses, the Department shall determine whether to grant or deny the requested permit, and then notify the applicant of its decision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Denial of Application. The Department may not grant a permit to an applicant if the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Requirements of this subtitle have not been met;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Application or verification documents contain insufficient or false information upon which to make a determination of eligibility; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Applicant has violated any provisions of this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Logos."> <text>The Department has adopted the following logos for use on products that meet the requirements of this subtitle:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Maryland Certified Organic Logo.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Maryland Organic Certification Pending Logo.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Use of Logos."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Conditions of Use. A person possessing an approved permit under this subtitle may use the Maryland certified organic or Maryland organic certification pending logo, whichever is appropriate, on containers, labels, tags, signs, stickers, decals, or other packaging, promotional, or informational materials subject to the requirements of this subtitle and the approval of the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Use of Maryland Certified Organic Logo. A product meeting the requirements of Regulation .02A of this chapter may be sold or labeled using the Maryland certified organic logo.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Use of Maryland Organic Certification Pending Logo. A product meeting the requirements of Regulation .02B of this chapter may be sold or labeled using the Maryland organic certification pending logo.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Prohibited Use. Unless the product meets the requirements of this subtitle, it may not be represented as being either Maryland certified organic or Maryland organic certification pending.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Use by Retailers and Distributors.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department may grant permission to market Maryland certified organic or Maryland organic certification pending products to retailers and distributors who agree to comply with the requirements of this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Permitted retailers shall conspicuously display the certification permit to sell Maryland certified organic products in each store where the product is offered for sale.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A certified retailer may use a Department-approved sign to identify only certified products by a producer holding a Maryland approved certification permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Certified retailers shall adopt measures to ensure that products bearing a Maryland organic logo are easily identifiable to consumers and clearly distinguishable and separated from similar products that are not Maryland certified organic.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Accidental Contamination or Commingling. A retailer or distributor may not use either Maryland logo on, or represent as Maryland certified organic, food that is known to contain materials prohibited by this subtitle or that has been commingled with other food during distribution or stocking.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Fresh, raw, unpackaged food bearing either of the Maryland logos may be retailed in Maryland only by the producer or a retailer in possession of a Maryland permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Fresh, raw, unpackaged food bearing either of the Maryland logos may be distributed in Maryland only by the producer or a distributor in possession of a Maryland permit.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Recordkeeping by the Department."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department shall maintain a list of producers, processors, distributors, and retailers who possess a certification permit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall maintain all records concerning certification of agricultural products for at least 10 years.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Organic Certification Advisory Committee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Composition and Appointment. The Maryland Organic Certification Advisory Committee is composed of the following 12 members who are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Secretary:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>One consumer of organic products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Four producers of organic products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>One handler of organic products;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>One representative of a recognized organic industry group;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Four experts, at least one of whom is from the University of Maryland, in associated and related fields with knowledge of, and interest in, organic agriculture; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>One member of the Maryland Agricultural Commission.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Committee Staff. Staff support for the Committee shall include four employees of the Department. Two of these employees shall have knowledge in the field of organic agriculture, and two shall represent the organic certification program and the marketing services program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Quorum. A majority of the voting members of the Maryland Organic Certification Advisory Committee serving at any one time constitutes a quorum for transaction of business.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Terms.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The term of any member serving on the Committee shall expire 3 years from the date of appointment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A member may not serve more than two consecutive terms.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A vacancy shall be filled for an unexpired term, and appointment for an unexpired term may not be considered as one of two terms.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Members shall attend and participate in a minimum of 50 percent of the meetings each year to remain in good standing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The Secretary shall invite nominations to the Committee from interested organizations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Responsibilities. The Committee shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make policy recommendations to the Secretary regarding the operation, regulation, and promotion of the organic certification program and the organic industry; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Offer recommendations and suggestions as to how the Department can support and create opportunities for Maryland certified organic producers to market their products.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Revocation or Suspension of Permit to Use Maryland Logos."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Secretary may suspend or revoke any permit to use the Maryland logo if a permit holder violates any provision of this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In an emergency, the Secretary may suspend a permit immediately upon finding a threat to public health, safety, or welfare.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Enforcement and Complaint Investigation."> <text>A person who believes that any provision of this subtitle has been violated may file a written complaint with the Department setting forth the facts and circumstances of any alleged violation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Hearings and Appeals."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Hearings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If a person is charged by the Secretary with a violation of this subtitle, the Secretary shall give the person charged an opportunity to be heard pursuant to State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall hold a hearing promptly following an emergency suspension.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Appeals. A person whose permit is denied, revoked, or suspended may appeal according to Agriculture Article, §2-405, Annotated Code of Maryland. If a notice of appeal is not filed within 15 days, the initial determination of the Department becomes final.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".20" heading="Violation of Regulations."> <text>A violation of this subtitle is a misdemeanor punishable as provided in Agriculture Article, §§12-101 and 12-102, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".21" heading="Public Access."> <text>Certification documents and laboratory analyses that pertain to certification are subject to inspection as provided under State Government Article, §§10-611—10-630, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§10-602 and 10-1402, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.21 adopted as an emergency provision effective May 21, 1991 (18:12 Md. R. 1318); emergency status expired December 1, 1991; adopted permanently effective April 13, 1992 (19:7 Md. R. 746)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05E amended as an emergency provision effective May 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 897); emergency status extended at 22:19 Md. R. 1470; amended permanently effective October 9, 1995 (22:20 Md. R. 1545)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07C amended as an emergency provision effective May 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 897); emergency status extended at 22:19 Md. R. 1470; amended permanently effective October 9, 1995 (22:20 Md. R. 1545)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08D adopted effective May 14, 2001 (28:9 Md. R. 889)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16 amended effective May 14, 2001 (28:9 Md. R. 889); April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Production Standards for Organic Animal Products"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter provides production standards for producers of certified organic animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs, pursuant to the Maryland Organic Certification Program.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Certification."> <text>All animal products marketed or labeled, or both, as organic shall be produced on land or in facilities by organic animal producers certified by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, in accordance with COMAR 15.22.03, or an official organic certifying agent recognized by the Department. Producers of organic animal products seeking certification as organic food producers may apply for certification.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Approved” means Departmental standards for the production of organic animal products have been met.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Aquafarm” means a facility operated as a business, where aquatic animals and plants are produced under controlled conditions for all or part of their life cycle, by the following of accepted cultural practices such as feeding, breeding, sheltering, containing, planting, or otherwise nurturing or manipulating by a grower, breeder, or owner of the aquatic plant or animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Botanical pesticides” are pesticides derived from plant materials.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Certified organic feed” means feed produced and processed organically, as provided in COMAR 15.22.02.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Feed” means all edible materials which are consumed by livestock and poultry, including crops in pasture, for the purpose of supplying protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals for nutritional purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Feed additives” mean substances used to fulfill a specific nutritional need in a feed ration.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Feed supplement” means any ingredient added to an animal's diet to supply additional nutrients either not supplied, or not supplied in sufficient quantities, including minerals, amino acids, and vitamins, to optimize an animal's health.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Material” means any substance or mixture of substances given internally, or applied externally, to an animal in the production of animals or animal products.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Organic animal producer” or “producer” means any person who manages animal production in accordance with this chapter, who labels and offers for sale animal products using the word “organic” or any derivative of “organic”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Organic animal product” means any animal product labeled and offered for sale with the word “organic” or any derivative of “organic”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Organic pasture” means ground covered with vegetation suitable for grazing that has been managed in accordance with COMAR 15.22.02 for organically produced commodities for at least 36 months.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Prohibited” means any material or practice which is disallowed by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Remedy” means anything that relieves or cures a disease.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Valid veterinarian-client relationship” means a relationship where a veterinarian:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Assumes the responsibility for making medical judgments regarding the health of an animal and the need for medical treatment, and a producer agrees to follow the instructions of the veterinarian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Has sufficient knowledge of the circumstances to initiate at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the medical condition of an animal, including when the veterinarian has recently seen and is personally acquainted with the care of an animal by examining the animal; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Is readily available for follow-up in case of adverse reactions or failure of the regimen of therapy.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Organic Farm Plan."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A certified organic animal producer shall follow COMAR 15.22.02 in the development and the use of a farm plan for producing products under a system of organic management.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The plan shall address the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Feed sources;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Nutrient management;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Animal health;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Animal management;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Animal identification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Shelter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Living conditions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Disease prevention and treatment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Parasite prevention and control.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A licensed veterinarian shall recommend disease and parasite prevention, treatment, and control programs within the context of a valid veterinarian-client relationship.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Sections A—C of this regulation, including the labeling provisions of Regulation .14 of this chapter, apply to farms in a transition period to becoming organically certified for livestock production.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the farm is a split operation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>There shall be functionally separate and observable differences between the certified organic and conventional sections; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Each section of the split operation shall be described in the farm plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Certification Application, Inspection, Use of Logo, and Fees."> <text>Organic animal producers shall follow regulations concerning certification, application, inspection, fees, and use of logo, as required under COMAR 15.22.03. The Department shall follow regulations on initial determination and denial of application, in accordance with COMAR 15.22.03.12.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Record Keeping."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Organic livestock producers shall ear tag or otherwise individually identify organic livestock, with the exception of poultry and aquaculture, which may be identified by flock and school, respectively.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Organic livestock producers shall maintain the following records from birth or purchase of livestock animals, and for 5 years after the sale of the organic animal products or slaughter of organic livestock:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All disease and pest management materials administered, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Animal identification;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Dates of administration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Types of materials;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Dosages given; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Sources of materials;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All purchased feeds, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Dates purchased;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Types of feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Quantities purchased;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Sources of feed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Copies of organic certificates of feed suppliers;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All sales records of organic animal products sold, including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Dates;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Quantities; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Weights.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Feed."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>All certified organically produced livestock shall be fed 100 percent certified organic feed and approved feed supplements and additives, as defined in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The following feed supplements and additives are approved for addition to organic feed, and may be from any source, provided the additive or its components are not prohibited under any other chapter of the organic program regulations:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Amino acids (chelated or nonchelated);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Enzymes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Fish meal, crab meal, and fish and crab byproducts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Mineral oil;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Minerals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Salt; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Vitamins.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The following additives are prohibited from addition to organic feed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Animal drugs, including hormones, to promote growth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Feed supplements or additives in amounts above those needed for adequate nutrition and health maintenance for the species at its specific stage of life;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Formulas containing urea or manure;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Mammalian or poultry slaughter byproducts to mammals or poultry; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Plastic pellets for roughage.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The use of feed, feed supplements, or feed additives in violation of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, is prohibited.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>An organic animal producer shall use feed, feed supplements, and feed additives in accordance with the Maryland Commercial Feed Law, as provided under Agriculture Article, §§6-101—6-117, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Emergency Feed."> <text>When an organic feed shortage results from emergency conditions, such as poor weather, road closures, crop failures due to drought, or area quarantine, the organic livestock producer may feed nonorganic feed to livestock for a limited period, provided:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The organic feed shortage is temporary and unforeseeable due to conditions beyond the producer's control;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The organic livestock producer makes every reasonable effort to locate organically certified feed, and maintains a record of every such effort, using feed in the following order:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Certified organic feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Noncertified organic (transitional) feed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Conventional feed;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The organic livestock producer notifies the Department immediately of efforts to find organic feed, and submits the record within 7 days;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Department verifies the emergency conditions and determines a maximum length of time during which the organic livestock producer may use emergency feed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If noncertified organic feed is used for more than 3 days, the producer shall begin a transitional phase to become recertified, as provided under COMAR 15.22.03.05.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Disease and Pest Management."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For animals to be considered “organically produced,” the organic producer shall implement an organic disease and pest management program. A producer may not use the term “certified organic” unless the producer has an organic disease and pest management program approved by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The required organic disease and pest management program shall emphasize prevention, and shall include strategies for disease prevention and treatment and for parasite control. Organic animal producers shall market only healthy animals and animal products, and may not deny treatment to an animal so it may be labeled or sold as certified organic.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Approved disease and pest management materials and practices include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Botanical insecticides for external parasite control and for fly management, only if labeled for such use;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Homeopathic, naturopathic, and herbal remedies;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Iodine, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, copper sulfate, lime, lye, alkali carbonate, caustic potash, bleach, and potassium permanganate, used as disinfectants or cleaners, or both;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Vaccinations against endemic disease, including coccidiosis vaccination (poultry);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Sodium hypochlorite (bleach), used on machinery and facilities;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Steam-sterilized equipment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Pasture rotation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Quarantine of ill animals and new animals on the farm.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Animal Drugs.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Animal drugs are restricted to breeder stock and to substances approved in §C of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Slaughter stock on whom animal drugs or any prohibited materials have been used shall be diverted into the conventional market, and may not be represented or marketed as “certified organic”.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Synthetic antibiotics are permitted in the following situations:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For medical emergencies where alternatives are not yet available;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>To save an animal's life; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>To prevent unnecessary suffering.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Synthetic parasiticides are permitted only when fecal or skin testing demonstrates their need, as recommended by a licensed veterinarian.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Applications of animal drugs shall occur within the context of a valid veterinarian-client relationship. Use of animal drugs requires justification for each use in the annual farm plan. Materials without withdrawal times are given preference. Use of any treatment not recognized by these regulations requires strict individual records on the treated animal, flock, school, or group of animals, and strict adherence to doubling the withdrawal times, as stated on the product label, and as defined by the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Living Conditions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An organic livestock producer shall establish and maintain livestock living conditions in a manner that promotes the health and natural behavior of the animal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An animal shall be provided access to shade, shelter, exercise areas, fresh air, and direct sunlight suitable to the species, its stage of production, the climate, and the environment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A ruminant shall be provided access to pasture.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Bedding shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be clean and dry; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If typically consumed by the animal species, comply with Regulation .07 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Shelter shall be designed to allow for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Natural maintenance, comfort behaviors, and opportunities to exercise;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Reduction of potential for livestock injury; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Temperature, ventilation, and air circulation suitable to the species.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>An organic animal producer may provide temporary confinement for an animal to protect:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Against the potential for injury to livestock;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Against inclement weather;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The animal in a vulnerable stage of production or development;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The animal from conditions in which the health, safety, or well-being of the animal could be jeopardized; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Soil or water quality.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Products from Bovine Animals, Swine, Lamb, Sheep, Goats, Rabbits, and Ratites."> <text>Organic meat products produced from bovine animals, swine, lamb, sheep, goats, rabbits, and ratites shall be organically reared and managed:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>From birth to slaughter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>At least the last 90 percent of their lives before slaughter, and preferably from birth to slaughter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Poultry and Poultry Products."> <text>Organic poultry products shall meet the following criteria:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Birds raised for meat production shall be fed 100 percent certified organic feed from the time the animals are 2 days old;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Laying hens and fowl shall be acquired or raised, or both, in one of two ways:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Raised on 100 percent certified organic feed from 2-day old chicks; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Raised from started pullets that are managed nonorganically, provided they are managed organically within an approved farm plan for 56 days immediately prior to the sale of eggs as organic;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Slaughter birds may not be administered hormones, antibiotics, or synthetic parasiticides from 1 day old to slaughter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Egg-laying fowl flocks shall be registered with the Department, as provided in COMAR 15.04.01.09.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Aquaculture Products."> <text>Organic aquaculture products shall meet the following criteria:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Aquaculture stock shall be fed 100 percent certified organic feed from fingerling size, except that naturally occurring food, such as minnows and brine shrimp, are permitted as feed in combination with certified feed, as specified in the farm plan; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The aquafarm shall be managed in accordance with COMAR 15.22.03, and include provisions for record keeping, disease control, and water testing or management, or both.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Dairy Products."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The following substances may not be administered to dairy animals managed organically:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Antibiotics, within 90 days before organic milk production; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Biotech milk enhancers, including BST.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Organic animal products produced from dairy animals shall meet the following criteria:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If replacement stock is obtained from organically certified stock and managed in accordance with the organic farm plan, the dairy product is immediately usable in organic production;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If replacement stock is not from certified organic stock, the organic animal producer may sell from the next lactation as an organic product if the producer manages the new stock under organic standards for the remainder of the current lactation and during the next dry period; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If heifers, dry cows, goats, and milk-sheep are not organically certified stock when brought to the organic farm, they shall be managed organically for 112 days from their arrival on the farm before their milk may be sold as an organic product.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Manure Management."> <text>Operators of organic farms shall conform to the Maryland Nutrient Management Program regulations on manure management, as provided in COMAR 15.20.07.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Regulations Under COMAR 15.22.03 To Be Followed by Organic Animal Producers."> <text>Organic animal producers shall follow regulations, as provided under COMAR 15.22.03, concerning:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Revocation or suspension of permit to use Maryland logos;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Enforcement and complaint investigation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Hearings and appeals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Violations of regulations; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Public access.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§6-101—6-117 and 10-1402, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: February 19, 2001 (28:3 Md. R. 206)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle>