Aquaculture - Placement of Shellfish, Bags, Nets, and Structures on Submerged Aquatic Vegetation - Extension

Shellfish farmers keep access with limits

Beginning June 1, 2026, the law extends limited farming access among underwater plants through June 30, 2030. Qualifying Maryland aquaculture leaseholders need prior written approval from the Department of Natural Resources to place shellfish, bags, nets, or structures there. The Department cannot approve dredge harvesting where these plants grow. For water column leases, it must allow placement in at least 10% of the area containing these plants. For submerged land leases, it must allow harvesting by diving in areas containing these plants. Existing limits remain: leaseholders cannot plant or harvest within 500 yards of stationary blinds or blind sites used for migratory waterfowl hunting. They cannot sublease, and lease transfers require Department approval. They must follow Department harvesting hours and cannot place illegally harvested oysters on a lease.