(a) (1) The General Assembly defines aquaculture as an agricultural and fisheries management activity. (2) "Aquaculture" includes the commercial rearing of finfish, shellfish, and aquatic plants for sale, trade, barter, or shipment. (b) It is the intent of the General Assembly to create: (1) An Aquaculture Review Board and an Aquaculture Coordinating Council to promote the development of an aquaculture industry in this State; and (2) An Aquaculture Coordinator, employed by the Department, to assist persons in obtaining the permits and licenses necessary to conduct aquaculture in the State. (c) The Department is the lead agency for: (1) The development and overall management of aquaculture and aquaculture products; (2) Coordinating and streamlining the process of applying for a State aquaculture permit; (3) Enforcing laws, regulations, and rules related to aquaculture; and (4) Identifying economic development opportunities related to aquaculture. (d) The University System of Maryland is the lead agency for research in aquaculture production and shall be responsible for development of education and extension programs which promote aquaculture as an industry. (e) The Department of Agriculture is the lead agency for the marketing of aquaculture products.
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