Bill > HB1511

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 consist of proceeds from $5 conservation deer stamps, gifts and grants, and state budget appropriations. The fund aims to support two primary activities: providing grants for wildlife damage prevention projects and reimbursing farmers for documented wildlife-related agricultural losses. Eligible grant recipients include local governments, farmers, landowners, businesses, tribes, universities, and nonprofit organizations, with grants focused on projects that reduce wildlife attractants, have community support, and are cost-effective. To receive reimbursement for crop damage, farmers must follow recommended wildlife damage prevention measures, have damage amounts verified by a University of Maryland Extension agent, and can receive between $200 and $5,000 annually, subject to fund availability. The Governor is authorized to include at least $50,000 in the annual budget for the fund, and the Department of Natural Resources will develop regulations to implement the program. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and explicitly does not cover damage caused by domesticated animals or black bears.

Government Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1511?ys=2025RS