The Renewable Energy Certainty Act, signed into law last week, puts Maryland’s priority farmland at risk, robs local governments of decision making authority, and disproportionately impacts the Eastern Shore’s farms and farmers. An effort is underway to create a ballot referendum on these issues but, to do so, over 20,000 signatures are needed by the end of this week. If you believe increased protection for farmland is essential, particularly here on the Eastern Shore, stop by the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy office in Easton, 9 - 5, through this Friday and add your name to the petition. The Renewable Energy Certainty Act (SB931/HB1036) expedites solar development within Priority Preservation Areas, after which, local jurisdictions would be empowered to control solar siting decisions without intervention and interference from the state. More than 54,000 acres of priority farmland on the Eastern Shore will be at risk of conversion to solar, with counties powerless to stop, or even shape it. Local jurisdictions designate Priority Preservation Areas (PPAs) in order to prioritize the agricultural viability and long-term preservation of their community’s most essential farmland. These are the lands that fuel their economies. Pulling large farms out of production can topple the foundational economy, culture, and community of these places. Although the Eastern Shore of Maryland is only one third of Maryland's land mass, the region’s Priority Protection Areas comprise over half of Maryland’s PPA acreage. The Farmers Alliance for Rural Maryland (FARM) is spearheading this ballot referendum effort. More information and additional locations to sign the petition can be found on their website and Facebook page. If you value the role that farmland plays in Maryland’s economic and cultural identity, please find time to sign the petition. We must insist on the most robust protection possible for these vital areas. Thank you for your support! (fb)

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