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COVER CROP SIGN-UP IS NOW OPEN
Soil conservation districts are now accepting grant applications from farmers who want to plant cover crops this fall to protect local water quality and build their soil's health. Reimbursement rates range from $55/acre to $95/acre, depending on the selected planting method and incentive options. New this year, our Cover Crop Plus+ grants offer higher incentive payments for farmers who sign a 3-year cover crop commitment to improve soil health. The deadline to apply is July 18.
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You’ve probably heard about the water quality and soil health benefits of planting cover crops. But did you know that cover crops can provide a stable source of nitrogen for spring crops? Meet a pair of Queen Anne's County farmers who have taken cover cropping to the next level.
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THIS JUST IN...
For a second year, a team of high school students from Montgomery County has won the Maryland Envirothon competition. The team from Richard Montgomery High School beat out teams from 13 counties with a winning score of 423 points out of 500 points. Teams from Anne Arundel County (388 points) and Harford County (386) placed second and third.
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SOIL SCIENCE AND FERTILITY WEBINAR
Dr. David Ruppert of the University of Maryland will present a 2-hour webinar on the Fundamentals of Soil Science and Soil Fertility for Nutrient Management on July 20th from noon to 2 pm. Participants receive two continuing education credits from the Nutrient Management Program.
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MDA AWARDS ANIMAL WASTE RESERACH GRANT
MDA has awarded a $714,000 grant to the University of Maryland to evaluate its Animal Waste Technology Fund (AWTF). The project will provide the department with updated data on animal waste generated in Maryland, along with recommendations for the types of projects that the AWTF should support in the future.
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LEARN HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR LAWN AND THE BAY
Be wise, don't over-fertilize. Check out the Home and Garden Information Center’s seasonal checklist of things to do—and not to do—for an attractive lawn and a healthy Chesapeake Bay.
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For additional information on MDA conservation programs, please contact your local soil conservation district.
PHOTO CREDITS:
Edwin Remsberg, MDA, the Maryland Envirothon, and Shutterstock.
Pictured: No-till farming in Queen Anne's County.
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