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HB 257

Natural Resources - Food Forests and Foraging Program - Establishment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lorig Charkoudian

Maryland would establish a statewide Food Forests and Foraging Program to convert public and private land into managed edible plant ecosystems for food security and sustainability.

Hearing 1/29 at 1:30 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 257

Legislative bill overview

HB 257 establishes a statewide Food Forests and Foraging Program in Maryland to promote the cultivation of edible plant communities on public and private land. The bill would create a framework for identifying suitable locations, providing technical assistance, and potentially offering incentives for property owners to develop and maintain food forests—managed ecosystems designed to produce food while supporting biodiversity.

Why is this important

Food forests represent an emerging approach to food security, urban agriculture, and environmental stewardship by converting underutilized land into productive ecosystems. The program could address food access in underserved communities, reduce municipal maintenance costs on public lands, and provide educational opportunities about sustainable food production and native plant ecology.

Potential points of contention

  • Land use and liability concerns: Property owners may hesitate to participate without clarity on liability protections if someone is injured or becomes ill from foraged plants on their property
  • Implementation costs and funding: The bill's fiscal impact remains unclear—establishing statewide infrastructure, training programs, and maintenance oversight requires sustainable funding mechanisms that aren't specified
  • Public safety and plant identification: Ensuring public knowledge about distinguishing edible from toxic plants is critical; inadequate education or signage could create health risks
  • Coordination complexity: The program requires coordination between multiple state agencies and local governments, raising questions about administrative efficiency and authority

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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