(a) There is a Maryland Native Plants Program.

(b) The purpose of the Program is to:

(1) Respond to the increasing demand for, use of, and sale of native plants by retail garden centers, retail nurseries, and wholesale nurseries; and

(2) Educate the public, landscapers, and other plant users on the importance, benefit, and availability of native plants.

(c) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Department shall administer the Program.

(2) The University of Maryland Extension shall administer the educational components of the Program in coordination with the Department and other agencies.