The bill amends Chapter 2-1 of the General Laws, which governs the agricultural functions of the Department of Environmental Management. It introduces new definitions for key terms such as "agricultural land," "agricultural operations," "farm," and "farmer," thereby clarifying the scope of agricultural activities and the entities involved.

Specifically, the bill defines "agricultural land" as land on which agricultural operations are being conducted or is suitable for agricultural operations, under the control of a farmer, and having a USDA Farm Tract/Farm Number. "Agricultural operations" are defined to include a wide range of commercial enterprises related to horticulture, crop production, forestry, livestock raising, and other activities determined by the director in consultation with the chief of the division of agriculture.

The definition of "farm" is expanded to include a parcel of land with any attendant buildings and equipment used for agricultural operations. The definition of "farmer" is clarified to include any natural person who is either the owner or principal operator of a farm and engages in agricultural operations.

The bill also establishes a procedure for obtaining approval from the director of environmental management for projects that may affect freshwater wetlands, buffers, or floodplains, including requirements for public notification and potential public hearings.

Normal farming and ranching activities are designated as insignificant alterations, exempting them from specific provisions as long as they follow best management practices to mitigate environmental impacts. The bill removes previous definitions and requirements related to the classification of farmers, streamlining the criteria for agricultural operations.

The changes are set to take effect immediately upon passage, ensuring prompt implementation of the updated definitions and procedures.