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READY, SET, ENROLL!
This year’s cover crop sign-up runs July 1 through July 16, 2021. Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity to apply for grants to help offset seed, labor, and equipment costs to plant cover crops in your fields this fall to protect water quality and help build your soil’s health. Applications will be posted on MDA's website beginning July 1. Learn more. |
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As it turns out, cover crops have earned their bragging rights as a top conservation practice. Watch Evan Miles, owner and operator of Bluestem Farm in Chestertown, describe how planting fall cover crops benefits his grain operation, his soil’s health and local waterways.
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THIS JUST IN...
A new US Geological Survey (USGS) fact sheet showcases how MDA uses LANDSAT satellite imagery to help improve its cover crop program and protect the Chesapeake Bay. The NASA/USGS LANDSAT series of Earth-observing satellites has monitored our planet's surface for nearly 50 years and is the go-to tool for mapping everything from deforestation to rising sea levels. Check out the fact sheet. |
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MDA JOINS DECADE OF AG
MDA has become the first state agency to join the Decade of Ag sustainability movement sponsored by US Farmers and Ranchers in Action. This is the first industry-wide movement to support a shared vision for the next decade that focuses on climate-smart agricultural food systems. Read more. |
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MEET HOWARD COUNTY’S SOIL HEALTH CHAMP
Keith Ohlinger, a Howard County livestock farmer who raises multiple heritage breeds, is one of five Maryland farmers that have been recognized as Soil Health Champions by the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD). Keith uses many innovative techniques to improve his soil’s health. Read Keith’s story here. |
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Montgomery County Team is the Winner!
A team of students from Richard Montgomery High School in Montgomery County is the winner of the 30th annual Maryland Envirothon natural resources competition. More than 50 teams from 13 counties across Maryland took part in this year’s virtual competition. Read more. |
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Poultry growers are invited to see for themselves how vegetative buffers can enhance their operations at the Demo Days event on June 3 or June 9. Lunch will be provided and nutrient management continuing education credits are available. Learn more here.
Got a hankering for some fresh local produce and products? Download MDA's 2021 Farmers Market Directory.
The Charles Soil Conservation District is seeking nominations for a district supervisor position.
The St. Mary's Soil Conservation District has published its 2020 Annual Report. Read the report here.
Looking to get some fill dirt? Not so fast! The rules are trickier than you might think for agricultural operations. The Baltimore County Soil Conservation District has published a handy guide on fill dirt requirements for farmers. Read the guide.
MDA reminds homeowners to mow the grass high to shade out weeds and retain moisture during periods of hot, dry weather. For more tips and information on Maryland’s Lawn Fertilizer Law, visit the website.
The Talbot Soil Conservation District has announced the winners of the 2021 Land Stewardship Poster Contest themed, Healthy Forests, Healthy Communities. Check out a few of the amazing winning entries on the website.
Want to work for MDA? Check out the latest job openings on our website.
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COVID-19 UPDATE
Most soil conservation districts and nutrient management field offices are open with some restrictions. Please call before you visit. You can find the latest information and updates on COVID-19 by visiting Maryland's covidLINK website.
Pictured: The Prince George's Soil Conservation District
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Photo credits: Edwin Remsberg, MDA, the Maryland Envirothon, and the Prince George's Soil Conservation District. |
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