MD HB506

Establishes the Maryland Leaders in Environmentally Engaged Farming (LEEF) Program to incentivize farmers to adopt conservation practices such as cover crops, riparian buffers, and healthy soils practices, with tiered recognition levels and a dedicated fund requiring at least $900,000 annually starting FY 2026.

Creates a Water Quality Monitoring Program within the Department of Natural Resources to provide consistent statewide water quality data collection and integrate monitoring results into policy planning for Chesapeake Bay restoration and climate resilience.

Streamlines fisheries management by allowing the Department of Natural Resources to rely on Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission plans rather than preparing separate state plans for federally-managed species, while retaining authority to adopt more restrictive Maryland-specific supplements.

Authorizes the Department of Natural Resources to lease state land for agricultural uses supporting healthy soils and regenerative practices, with minimum 10-year lease terms.

Requires the Department of the Environment by December 31, 2025 to authorize oyster restoration projects to generate water quality trading credits and develop a certification process for those credits.