Bill > SB317

This bill establishes a Food Forests and Foraging Program within Maryland's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that allows individuals to harvest plant materials like seeds, nuts, mushrooms, roots, tubers, and berries for personal, non-commercial use on designated state-owned lands. To participate, individuals must obtain an annual foraging permit by submitting an application and paying a fee, though the DNR is required to waive the fee for those who demonstrate financial need. The bill creates a special Food Forests and Foraging Fund to support the designation, planting, and maintenance of food forests, which will be funded through permit application fees, state budget appropriations, interest earnings, and other potential donations. The fund can only be used for establishing and maintaining food forests and related administrative expenses. The program's primary purposes are to designate, plant, and maintain food forests on state land while providing a regulated framework for public foraging. Importantly, the bill explicitly excludes harvesting of threatened or endangered plant species from the definition of foraging. The legislation will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving the DNR time to develop implementation regulations and establish the necessary program infrastructure.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0317?ys=2025RS