MDA Revitalizes Manure Matching Service; Program Seen as Essential in Helping Farmers Comply with New Phosphorus Management Tool

ANNAPOLIS, MD  – The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) today announced that it has revitalized its Manure Matching Service, a mutually beneficial program that connects  livestock producers who have excess animal manure with other farmers or alternative use projects that can use the product as a valuable resource. Livestock farmers with high soil phosphorus levels or too little land to use all the manure produced on their farms are encouraged to call the Matching Service’s new toll free number at 1-855-6MANURE (626873) to begin the process.

“Manure has been recognized as a valuable nutrient resource and soil amendment for hundreds of years,” said Maryland Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance.  “Fertilizer costs have increased in recent years and manure provides a more cost effective nutrient source. We encourage farmers with excess animal manure and those who can utilize the valuable resource to take advantage of our matching service program.”

MDA’s Manure Matching Service provides the vital link between manure suppliers and users. It is important to farmers and the health of the Chesapeake Bay because it can be used by animal producers to manage manure resources, comply with nutrient regulations and protect water quality in local streams and rivers. The Service is available to all types of animal producers with excess manure, including poultry, dairy, beef, hog and horse operations.

Producers register with the Service by completing a sending farm application that includes information about the type of manure available, nutrient value, condition and price. MDA provides this information to potential recipients who supply information about their location, nutrient and timing needs. This helps ensure a match that meets the needs of both sending and receiving farms.

A nutrient management plan is used to determine the amount of manure that can benefit a receiving farm’s crop management system. Additionally, a manure analysis is performed to determine the nutrient content of the manure and help participants negotiate a fair price.  MDA serves strictly as an information exchange and does not participate in financial negotiations.

The newly revitalized Manure Matching Service precedes the adoption of new regulations governing the Phosphorus Management Tool, the farm management tool that helps farmers determine how much phosphorus they can apply to fields. The Matching Service helps farmers with high soil phosphorus levels comply with new requirements being implemented as part of Maryland’s commitment to clean up the Chesapeake Bay. The Service also helps farm operations seeking manure resources to improve soil health and fertility.

Maryland’s Manure Matching Service is voluntary, free and available to both sending and receiving farms. The Matching Service complements MDA’s recently expanded Manure Transport Program, which helps poultry, dairy, beef and other livestock producers cover the costs of transporting excess manure off their farms. For more information on both programs, farmers should contact their local soil conservation district or MDA at 1-855-6MANURE (626873). Information also is available online at www.mda.maryland.gov.

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