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EMERGENCY REGULATIONS TAKE EFFECT FOR FPRs
On October 18, MDA announced that the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review (AELR) approved emergency regulations to create a new permit program for food processing residuals (FPRs). This move also includes amendments to the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual.
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LAST CHANCE FOR COVER CROPS!
Farmers who signed up for our cover crop grants have one last chance to plant their fields and receive reimbursement from MDA. Late-planted cover crops of wheat, rye, and triticale incorporated into fields between November 6 and November 15 qualify for a $40/acre flat rate. These cover crops may not be terminated before May 1, 2025. Questions? Contact your local soil conservation district.
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NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT UPDATE TRAINING SET FOR DECEMBER 5
Don't miss this opportunity to get the latest information on nutrient management research, new permit requirements for Food Processing Residuals, and updates from the University of MD Extension Plan Writing Program and the Nutrient Management Oversight Committee. This conference awards 6.0 CEUs in all agricultural nutrient management categories.
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Check out this short USDA video showcasing fellow farmers in Kentucky who have improved their soil using no-till and other soil health practices. Get inspired, share, and remember—keep the stubble!
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NEW TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES FOR LAWN CARE PROS
Two new training opportunities are now available for certified Professional Fertilizer Applicators (PFAs) needing continuing education credits (CEUs). On December 10, PFAs can earn 3 CEUs by attending the Maryland Turfgrass Conference in Ellicott City. The 2024 Pest Management Conference slated for December 19 in Westminster also offers 3 CEUs.
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LAWN FERTILIZER BLACKOUT DATES TAKE EFFECT NOVEMBER 16
Lawn fertilizer blackout dates authorized by Maryland's Lawn Fertilizer Law take effect November 16 and end March 1, 2024. The blackout dates protect local streams and the Chesapeake Bay from nutrient runoff during late fall and winter, when grass typically goes dormant and cannot benefit from additional nutrients.
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CHESAPEAKE BAY SEES SLIGHT IMPROVEMENT IN WATER QUALITY
The Chesapeake Bay Program has published a new report indicating a slight improvement in key water quality indicators for the Bay. During the 2020-2022 assessment period, the Bay showed progress in water clarity, dissolved oxygen levels, and chlorophyll concentrations.
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FARMERS URGED TO BE VIGILANT OF DRY CONDITIONS DURING HARVEST
MDA and Maryland Farm Bureau encourage farmers to follow fire prevention safety measures in light of an increase in field and equipment fires during this dryer-than-usual fall harvest season.
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CALVERT HAS A NEW LOOK...
The Calvert Soil Conservation District has a new logo that modernizes its look while preserving elements of Calvert County's agricultural heritage, like the tobacco barn and row crop fields. It also highlights the District's oyster recovery efforts with water and a beach. Looking good, Calvert!
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WANT TO WORK FOR MDA?
The Office of Resource Conservation is now hiring field staff in multiple locations throughout Maryland. Check out the latest job openings on our website.
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EAT LIKE A MARYLANDER THIS THANKSGIVING
Maryland’s Best encourages you to buy local and enjoy the best Maryland has to offer during this holiday season!
NEED HELP WITH A CONSERVTION PROJECT?
Please contact your local soil conservation district for additional information on MDA conservation programs, grants, and services.
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