We oppose public access to private land without the permission of the landowner.  We recognize the value of urban greenways, but oppose greenway designation in rural/agricultural areas of Maryland due to the potential for trespass, vandalism, or other interferences with production agriculture. Any legislation for the study or designation of greenway corridors or rails to trails must include a requirement for notification to all owners of private property that adjoins the proposed greenway before a study commences.’07
     Any study must contain a public comment period or hearing prior to issuance of any authorization for interim use, where contiguous landowners and other citizens have the opportunity for input. Also the study should consider the effects of any proposed interim trail use on the safety, health, security, privacy and economic interests of the adjacent landowners and determine if the right of way is suitable for interim trail use.  If a trail is established, the trail sponsor should be required to be responsible for liability, right of way fencing, taxes, control of noxious weeds, maintenance of the rights of way and other cost which were required of the railway for the use of the property easement.  We promote the philosophy that if rights of way are developed for recreational purposes lands should be purchased from willing sellers. '02