Bill > SB736

This bill establishes the Wildlife Damage Prevention and Reimbursement Fund to help agricultural producers who suffer crop losses due to wildlife like deer and geese. The fund will be administered by the Department of Natural Resources and will be supported by $5 conservation deer stamps, gifts, grants, and potential state budget appropriations. The fund has two primary purposes: providing grants for wildlife damage prevention projects and reimbursing farmers for agricultural losses. For prevention projects, the department will accept grant applications from various entities including local governments, farmers, businesses, and nonprofits, prioritizing projects that reduce wildlife attractants, have community support, and are cost-effective. For reimbursement, farmers can receive between $200 and $5,000 annually for verified crop damages, provided they have followed recommended wildlife damage prevention measures and had the damage amount determined by a University of Maryland Cooperative Extension agent. The bill specifically excludes damage caused by domesticated animals or black bears, and requires the governor to consider including at least $50,000 in annual appropriations to the fund. The fund will be a continuing, non-lapsing account, and the department is required to develop regulations for its implementation. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0736?ys=2025RS