|
|
REVISED CHESAPEAKE BAY AGREEMENT APPROVED
Governor Wes Moore announced that the Chesapeake Bay Program Executive Council has approved a revised Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement. This new agreement aims to protect jobs, the environment, and coastal communities. Importantly, it commits states to reducing nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment pollution in the Bay by the year 2040.
|
|
|
WINTER BAN ON SPREADING MANURE BEGINS DECEMBER 16
MDA reminds farmers that the winter ban on spreading manure, food processing residuals (FPRs), and other nutrient sources on cropland begins on December 16, 2025. Farmers can resume spreading these materials on March 1, 2026, as long as they follow their nutrient management plan recommendations and ensure that fields are not saturated, snow-covered, or hard-frozen.
|
|
|
GET CERTIFIED TO WRITE NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PLANS THIS WINTER
Farmers and consultants who want to become certified to write state-approved nutrient management plans should register for the upcoming Maryland Nutrient Management Certification Exam on February 6, 2026 at MDA headquarters in Annapolis. Those who make nutrient recommendations for lawn-care companies, nurseries, and public grounds are also encouraged to take the exam.
|
|
Follow along as MDA’s Soil Health team visits a local farm to conduct an initial soil study, kickstarting a three-year soil health partnership. This farm is one of 14 that received funding through the 2025 Healthy Soils Competitive Fund to support innovative conservation practices that benefit climate, soil, and water. Applications for the 2026 grant cycle are open through January 9, 2026. Do you have an innovative idea to improve soil health? Click here to learn more.
|
|
|
WINTER CROP PRODUCTION MEETINGS IN FULL SWING
Farmers: Get the latest research and data to make informed 2026 growing decisions. Crop meetings focusing on agronomy, urban farming, forage, fruit, and vegetable production are now underway. Attendance is free, and meetings will be held in person and virtually. Don't miss the opportunity to earn pesticide recertification and nutrient management credits at these meetings.
|
|
|
NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT VOUCHER TRAINING
Farmers: Are you up to date on your nutrient voucher training? If you apply nutrients to 10 acres or more, you'll need to complete a 2-hour training course every three years to comply with Maryland's nutrient management requirements. University of Maryland Extension (UME) and MDA offer both in-person and online sessions to make it easy for you.
|
|
|
2026 PROFESSIONAL FERTILIZER APPLICATOR EXAM DATES ANNOUNCED
Lawn care workers can register for one of four certification exams held at locations throughout the state in 2026. An optional training session is available before the exam. In Maryland, lawn care professionals who apply fertilizer to lawns must be certified by MDA or work under the direct supervision of a certified professional. The first certification exam will be held on February 9, 2026 in Annapolis.
|
|
|
GET READY FOR A TASTE OF MARYLAND AGRICULTURE
The 56th annual Taste of Maryland Agriculture returns to the Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland at Arundel Mills on Thursday, February 5, 2026. Sponsored by the Maryland Agriculture Council Inc., more than 900 guests are expected to attend the event, where agriculture education grants will be awarded, and Governor Wes Moore is expected to introduce the state’s Agricultural Hall of Fame honoree.
|
|
|
NEED HELP WITH A CONSERVATION PROJECT?
Please contact your local soil conservation district for additional information on MDA conservation programs, grants, and services.
STATE OF MARYLAND JOB OPENINGS
Check out the latest job openings on our website.
|
|
|
|
