Ch. 6 LAWS OF MARYLAND

this category which have been transferred by the State by valid grant, lease, patent or
grant confirmed by Article 5 of the MARYLAND Declaration of Rights [of the
Constitution] shall be considered "private wetland" to the extent of the interest
transferred.

9-102.

(A) In many areas of the State much of the wetlands have been lost or despoiled
by unregulated dredging, dumping, filling, and like activities, and the remaining
wetlands are in jeopardy of being lost or despoiled by these and other activities. The
loss or despoliation:

(1) [will] WILL affect adversely, if not eliminate entirely, the value of the
wetlands as a source of nutrient to finfish, Crustacea, and shellfish of significant
economic value;

(2) [the loss or despoliation will] WILL destroy the wetlands as a habitat
for plants and animals of significant economic value and eliminate or substantially
reduce marine commerce, recreation, and aesthetic enjoyment;

(3) [in] IN most cases, [the loss or despoliation] will affect the natural
ability of tidal wetlands to reduce flood damage and affect adversely the public health
and welfare; AND

(4) [the loss or despoliation] WILL will reduce substantially the capacity
of the wetlands to absorb silt and result in increased silting of channel and harbor areas
to the detriment of free navigation.

(B) It is [therefore] the public policy of the State, taking into account varying
ecological, economic, developmental, recreational, and aesthetic values, to preserve the
wetlands and prevent their despoliation and destruction.

9-103.

(A) Except as specifically provided in this title, a riparian owner may not be
deprived of any right, privilege, or enjoyment of riparian ownership that [he] THE
RIPARIAN OWNER had prior to July 1, 1970.

(B) The provisions of this title do not transfer the title or ownership of any land
or interest in land.

9-104.

(a) This section does not apply to any project involving the construction of a
dwelling unit or other [non-water] NONWATER dependent structure on a pier
located on State or private wetlands in Prince George's County.

(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection,
notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Board of Public Works may not issue a
license under this title for any project involving the construction of a dwelling unit or
other [non-water] NONWATER dependent structure on a pier located on State
wetlands.

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