In the spring of 1996, Governor Glendening signed House Bill 1, which created the Maryland Heritage Preservation and Tourism Areas Program.   The program is overseen by the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority (MHAA). 

The program was designed to link the preservation of historic, natural, and cultural features with tourism development.  Previously, historic preservation and land conservation were viewed as prescriptive measures aiding the cultural and environmental health of Maryland with the cost regarded as high by localities that did not see the fiscal benefits or opportunities that could be achieved through large-scale preservation efforts or regional heritage development.  Linking tourism development to historic preservation, land conservation, and heritage development gives communities access to a revenue-generating industry.

Through a process of Recognition and Certification, the Eastern Shore Heritage Area can gain access to state funding directed toward activities which benefit the heritage area.  This funding takes the form of grants, loans, and tax credits.

For more information on heritage tourism and tax credits, see the Maryland Historical Trust website:
http://www.marylandhistoricaltrust.net/