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NEW RULES IN EFFECT FOR FOOD PROCESSING RESIDUALS
MDA has implemented new emergency regulations for the application and storage of food processing residuals (FPRs) on Maryland farms. These regulations are outlined in Title 20 of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR). You can find more information about the emergency regulations by clicking the box.
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COVER CROP SIGN-UP ENDS SOON
MDA's 2024-2025 Cover Crop Sign-Up ends July 17th. Don't miss this opportunity to apply for attractive grants to plant fall cover crops to improve your soil and protect the Chesapeake Bay. Soil conservation districts are standing by to help you complete your application. Ask about our Cover Crop Plus+ grants for enhanced soil health benefits.
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SOIL HEALTH MATTERS!
MDA has announced that 23 projects will receive grant funding totaling $993,000 through its Healthy Soils Competitive Fund. This pioneering grant program provides financial assistance to qualifying farms and organizations—both large and small—to adopt innovative conservation practices that benefit climate, soil, and water.
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Seawater intrusion into coastal communities is damaging land along the East Coast of the United States. This study, performed by University of Maryland scientist Dr. Kate Tully and partially funded by the Harry R. Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology, looks at ways we could mitigate saltwater intrusion brought on by sea-level rise and climate change.
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NURSERY/GREENHOUSE OPERATOR TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION
Are you interested in becoming certified to create a nutrient management plan for the nursery, greenhouse, or controlled environment that you manage? Join us on October 3rd for a two-day training and certification program. Additionally, certified nutrient management consultants can earn 6 hours of continuing education credits by participating in this workshop.
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NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATION EXAM IS AUGUST 2nd
The Maryland Nutrient Management Certification Examination will be offered on August 2nd at locations in Annapolis, Keedysville, and Easton. The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering a range of knowledge areas. It is for farmers and professional service providers who want to become certified to prepare nutrient management plans for other farmers.
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PROFESSIONAL FERTILIZER APPLICATOR EXAM AND TRAINING
Lawn care workers who want to become certified by MDA to apply fertilizer to lawns should register for the upcoming certification exam on August 13th in Salisbury. An optional training session is offered before the exam. In Maryland, lawn care professionals hired to apply fertilizer to lawns must be certified by MDA or work under the direct supervision of a certified pro.
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HELP YOUR LAWN BEAT THE HEAT
MDA reminds homeowners to allow established lawns to go dormant during the hot, dry summer months. Applying fertilizer to force a lawn to turn green during its dormancy period can harm the grass and impact the Chesapeake Bay. You can also help your lawn by mowing the grass high to help shade the soil and conserve moisture.
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MARYLAND HORSE FORUM SET FOR AUGUST 8th
The 2024 Maryland Horse Forum will be held on Thursday, August 8th, from 8 am to 4 pm at McDonogh School in Owings Mills. This free event serves as a day to hear from the entire Maryland Horse Industry. You are invited to share your thoughts and solutions to current industry concerns.
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Angelia Little has joined MDA's Conservation Grants Program, where she will provide administrative support to multiple program areas. Ms. Little brings over 17 years of exceptional experience and knowledge to the team. You can reach her at angelia.little@maryland.gov
WANT TO WORK FOR MDA?
Check out the latest job openings throughout the department on our website.
JULY IS NATIONAL ICE CREAM MONTH – Visit Maryland's Best Ice Cream Trail!
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Please contact your local soil conservation district for additional information on MDA conservation programs.
Photo credits: Edwin Remsberg, Harry R. Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology, and MDA.
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