(a)    There is a statewide program within the Department for the conservation, regulation, enhancement, creation, monitoring, and wise use of nontidal wetlands.

(b)    The Department shall:

(1)    Coordinate with other State agencies, federal agencies, other states, local governments, and interested persons in the regulation of nontidal wetlands;

(2)    Assist local governments in undertaking nontidal wetland management planning, including mapping, technical assistance, and expediting the permit process;

(3)    Develop certification programs to ensure uniform and professional standards for the identification, delineation, functional assessment, and mitigation of nontidal wetlands;

(4)    Evaluate proposed activities on nontidal wetlands and grant or deny permits or other approvals of proposed activities;

(5)    Conduct watershed studies and educational programs and disseminate information concerning the nontidal wetlands program;

(6)    Prepare, adopt, and periodically revise guidance maps of nontidal wetlands;

(7)    Adopt standards for planning, regulating, restoring, creating, and enhancing nontidal wetlands;

(8)    Purchase, restore, and create nontidal wetlands; and

(9)    Conduct periodic monitoring, cumulative impact assessment, and evaluation of activities authorized under this subtitle.

(c)    By December 31, 1989 the Department shall adopt final regulations necessary to administer this subtitle, in accordance with § 10-111(a) of the State Government Article.