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JULY 2021

$2.9 MILLION AWARDED FOR TWO INNOVATIVE MANURE MANAGEMENT PROJECTS 
On Maryland's Eastern Shore, a new technology will be tested that converts chicken manure into a soil amendment that could store carbon in the soil. In Western Maryland, dairy farmers will soon find out if manure injection technology makes a difference for local air and water quality. Read about our 2021 Animal Waste Technology Grant recipients here.  

COVER CROP SIGN-UP UNDERWAY
MDA is now accepting grant applications from farmers who want to plant small grains and other qualifying cover crops in their fields this fall to prevent runoff, curb erosion and build their soil's health. Reimbursement rates range from $45/acre to $80/acre depending on the planting method and incentive options selected. Applications must be postmarked by July 16. Visit the website to download an application.

HOW DO THEY DO THAT? AERIAL SEEDING OF COVER CROPS INTO STANDING CORN

This Maryland Farm and Harvest clip explains the ups and downs and ins and outs of using an airplane to drop cover crop seeds into fields of standing corn. Click here to watch.

PMT TAKES FULL EFFECT JULY 1
Maryland's Phosphorus Management Tool Regulations (PMT) are now in full effect. All farmers with Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Values of 150 or greater are now required to follow PMT guidelines in their nutrient management planning and applications. For more information, click here.

THIS SOIL HEALTH CHAMP DIGS DEEPER
Michael Heller has farmed the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s 285-acre livestock and vegetable farm in Prince George’s County for more than 30 years. One of five Maryland farmers recognized as Soil Health Champions by the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD), Michael has learned a thing or two about soil health. Read his story here. 

HELP STOP THE SPOT
The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), is a beautiful but dangerous threat to Maryland’s forests and food crops. It feeds on more than 70 different types of trees and plants and has no natural enemies. To help prevent the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly, a quarantine is in place in Cecil and Harford counties. People who work in these counties are required to take free training on how to prevent the spread of this invasive pest. You can learn more about the Spotted Lanternfly and sign up for the free training on MDA’s website.

WELCOME TO YOUR WATERSHED INTERACTIVE VIDEO GAME
Want to give your kids a boost in science class this fall? Our interactive video game helps kids understand the importance of conservation—not just on the farm, but at home, school and in their neighborhoods. Welcome to Your Watershed is aimed at 7-10 year olds, but you’re never too old to learn something new. Hit the Start Game button and see for yourself.

DATES TO REMEMBER

July 14 – Professional Fertilizer Applicator (Urban) Exam

July 16 – Last day to apply for MDA's Cover Crop Grants 

August 6 – Maryland Nutrient Management Exam 

Available Anytime – Nutrient Management Learn and Earn CEUs

NEWS AND NOTES

MDA reminds homeowners to allow established lawns to go dormant during the hot, dry weather. Dormant lawns will green up when cooler temperatures arrive and rainfall increases.  For more tips and information on Maryland’s Lawn Fertilizer Law, visit the website.

MDA has updated its Poultry Operator's Handbook and Guide. This guide is designed to help all types of poultry operations – large and small – comply with state record-keeping and management requirements. Call 410-677-0802 ext. 6 for a copy. You can also download a copy of the handbook from the website.

Save the Date! The Harford Soil Conservation District will host its Annual Cooperator’s Dinner Saturday, October 9, 2021 at the Havre de Grace Community Center. For more information, call the district at 410-838-6181.

New Location! The Maryland Agriculture Council will hold its annual Taste of Maryland dinner and awards ceremony at the Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland at Arundel Mills on February 3, 2022. For more information, visit the website or call 240-446-3601.

Michael Harrison, Jr. of Woodbine has been elected president of the Maryland Agriculture Council. Read the news release to learn more.

The Cecil Soil Conservation District has published a series of educational videos on its website covering everything from cover crops to waste storage structures. Check out the videos here.

Want to work for MDA? Check out the latest job openings on our website. 

COVID-19 UPDATE
Soil conservation districts and nutrient management field offices are open. You can find the latest information on COVID-19 at covidLINK. 

Pictured: The Caroline Soil Conservation District