The Department implements programs, and enforces regulations related to land preservation and environmental planning. The Department also is responsible for agricultural land preservation, natural resources protection, forest conservancy, and Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area oversight.
Four divisions carry out the Department's work: Environmental Programs, Land Preservation and Environmental Planning, Natural Resources, and Plumbing and Gas.
NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION
Appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, the Commission's seven members serve four-year terms.
AGRICULTURAL LAND PRESERVATION PROGRAM
Appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, the seven members of the Advisory Board in Worcester County serve four-year terms (Code Agriculture Article, sec. 2-504.1).
AGRICULTURAL RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE
The Committee is appointed by the Board of County Commissioners.
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SHORELINE COMMISSION
Formed in the early 1970s, the Shoreline Commission reviews applications for permits to construct on the County shoreline. In its review, the Commission considers the impact on the environment, navigation, and the surrounding neighborhood and its property values. The Commission also evaluates how such construction will effect recreation, and be of commercial benefit to the County (County Code, sec. NR 2-102).
AGRICULTURAL PRESERVATION ADVISORY BOARD
The Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board advises the Board of County Commissioners on the establishment of agricultural districts and the approval of purchases of easements within the County by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.
The Agricultural Reconciliation Committee arbitrates and mediates disputes involving agricultural operations conducted on agricultural lands. The Committee issues opinions on whether such operations conform with generally accepted agricultural management practices.
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