February 5, 2026

Department Extends Deadline for Farmers to File Annual Implementation Reports (AIRs)

Department Extends Deadline for Farmers to File Annual Implementation Reports (AIRs)

ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 4, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture has extended the deadline for farmers to submit Annual Implementation Reports (AIRs) for 2025 nutrient applications to April 1, 2026. This extension also applies to Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs). 

Due to unforeseen printing issues, AIRs for several regions of the state will not be mailed until later this week. To accommodate the delayed delivery of these personalized paper reporting forms, MDA has extended the deadline by one month. Thank you to the farmers who reached out with their concerns; your feedback is greatly appreciated!

As a reminder, electronic reporting is available through Maryland OneStop. Those who are new to this electronic reporting option will need to register for an account. In addition, blank paper reporting forms are available for download on the department’s website. For more information, farmers should contact their regional nutrient management office. 

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Department Launches Outreach Campaign to Promote Stream Protection, Herd Health 

Department Launches Outreach Campaign to Promote Stream Protection, Herd Health 

Up to 87.5% Cost-Share Available for Most Practices

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 29, 2025) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture has launched a new public awareness campaign to educate farmers about the environmental and animal health benefits of fencing livestock out of streams and providing them with a clean, reliable water source. The campaign spotlights the department’s full range of incentive programs to install stream protection practices that benefit herd health and help farmers comply with Maryland’s livestock setback requirements for waterways. It will run throughout February and features a 30-second public service announcement airing on local news, cable, and broadcast networks, including Maryland Public Television. Social media messaging will also be shared across a range of digital platforms.

“Farmers who fence off their streams and install watering facilities in pastures report improved productivity and weight gain, fewer injuries, and cleaner waterways,” said Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “If you own farmland next to a stream, contact your local soil conservation district for free technical assistance to install stream protection practices that comply with state setback requirements and enhance both your farm and the environment,” he said. 

The department’s Conservation Grants Program offers financial incentives to support a range of practices that support healthy waterways and livestock. Free technical assistance to plan and install practices is provided by local soil conservation districts.

Eligible practices and programs include: 

• Livestock Watering Facilities—Up to 87.5% cost-share 
• Livestock Exclusion Fencing—Up to 87% cost-share 
• Stream Crossings—Up to 87.5% cost-share
• Stream Buffers—Up to 100% cost-share and $2 for each tree planted. ​
• Conservation Buffer Initiative—Pays up to $4,500 an acre to install a riparian forest buffer with pasture fencing; new riparian forest buffers also qualify for a one-time bonus payment of $1,000/acre. 
• Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)—This federal-state partnership program pays attractive land rental rates to remove environmentally sensitive agricultural land out of production for 10-15 years and install conservation practices to protect streams. New riparian forest buffers also qualify for a one-time BONUS PAYMENT of $1,000/acre.

​Farmers and agricultural landowners who want to learn more about the department’s stream protection practices should visit the website. Free technical help and application assistance for most projects is available through local soil conservation districts. 

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National Park Service Awards $100,000 to the State of Maryland for AgriTrails

National Park Service Awards $100,000 to the State of Maryland for AgriTrails

Maryland’s Best AgriTrails highlights Maryland food along with outdoor recreation

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 29, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources were recently awarded $100,000 of grant funding by the National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways to support AgriTrails, highlighting Maryland’s agricultural and natural resources. The initiative will connect Maryland agriculture and aquaculture businesses with outdoor recreation opportunities on public lands and State Parks to increase awareness, appreciation, and economic vitality across Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay Gateway communities. The collaboration will guide Marylanders and visitors on an adventure of “Maryland Grown Food and Fun.”

“Through the National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways grant, we have the opportunity to showcase Maryland’s agricultural resources, while also highlighting Maryland’s outdoor recreation,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “Sip & Shuck is an example of a marketing campaign that shines a light on Maryland’s rich agricultural products.”

The State of Maryland plays a vital role in protecting its natural resources, supporting local agriculture and aquaculture, and expanding equitable access to nature. With over half of the Chesapeake Bay located within Maryland’s borders, numerous working waterfronts and communities are dependent on Bay resources. Maryland has over 280 dairy farms, 475 commercial shellfish operations, 800 licensed oyster harvesters, and 500,000 acres of public land.

“In Maryland, oysters aren’t just food, they’re part of our culture, our economy, and our environment,” said Sandi Olek, Director of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Outdoor Recreation. Maryland’s outdoor experiences are just as distinctive as our local flavors. Sip & Shuck brings that story to life by pairing Maryland-grown food with outdoor adventures, helping people experience how the Chesapeake Bay, local farms, and our state’s beautiful recreation spaces are all connected.”

National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways (NPS Chesapeake Gateways) offers competitive grant opportunities to advance the Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act of 1998 within the full 41-million-acre Chesapeake Bay watershed. Chesapeake Gateways grants inspire and help people discover, experience, and connect with Chesapeake Places and Experiences across its rivers, landscapes, and communities to enhance stewardship, heritage, and outdoor tourism economies throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Through this grant, AgriTrails will link agricultural tourism with outdoor recreation to increase public engagement, support agribusinesses, encourage Bay-friendly consumer practices, and foster a greater understanding of Maryland’s natural, cultural, and agricultural heritage. The initiative will showcase Maryland’s outdoor landscapes while connecting residents and visitors with local farms and producers.

In 2026, the partnership will offer three Maryland AgriTrails to explore: Sip & Shuck (February-March), Maryland’s Best Ice Cream Trail (Memorial Day-Labor Day), and Bikes & Brews (September-November). Interested participants can use the online platform Bandwango, accessible through Maryland’s Best website, to learn more about the trails and check in at the designated locations for a chance to win prizes. The first trail to launch, Sip & Shuck, begins February 1 and pairs breweries, restaurants, and distilleries that use local Maryland oysters and ingredients with nearby outdoor recreation activities. 

For more details, head to marylandsbest.net/agritrails.

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About Maryland Department of Agriculture: The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is a unit of the Maryland State government formed in 1972 to represent agriculture’s growing importance and impact to the economy of the state. MDA programs are a combination of regulatory, consumer-facing, and educational or promotional in scope. All are intended to provide the maximum protection possible for the consumer, protect the environment, and promote the economic well-being of farmers, food and fiber processors, and businesses engaged in agricultural-related operations. For more information: mda.maryland.gov.

About Maryland Department of Natural Resources: The Maryland Department of Natural Resources leads the state toward a resilient future by using data, partnerships, and an innovative spirit to improve ecological, social, and economic outcomes for all communities. Learn more about the Maryland Department of Natural Resources at dnr.maryland.gov. 

About National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways: Established by Congress in 1998, Chesapeake Gateways is a partnership network and community assistance program coordinated by the National Park Service. Headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland, the program serves the full 41-million-acre Chesapeake Bay watershed, supporting and promoting authentic Chesapeake experiences for local communities and visitors. Visit us at www.nps.gov/Chesapaeake, on Facebook www.facebook.com/ChesapeakeNPS, and Instagram www.Instagram.com/ChesapeakeNPS. 

January 23, 2026

Department encourages farmers to file their Annual Implementation Reports (AIRs)

Department encourages farmers to file their Annual Implementation Reports (AIRs)

Electronic reporting is now available through Maryland OneStop

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 23, 2025) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture reminds farmers that the deadline to submit Annual Implementation Reports (AIRs) outlining nutrient applications made in calendar year 2025 is March 1, 2026. Electronic reporting is available through Maryland OneStop for those who want to save time and reduce errors. Farmers new to this electronic reporting option will need to register for an account. Returning farmers should log in to their existing accounts to use the e-file option. 

Approximately 5,500 Maryland farmers are regulated by the department’s Nutrient Management Program. These farmers are required to follow nutrient management plans when fertilizing crops and managing animal manure and submit annual reports summarizing nutrient applications for the previous year. Confined Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) operating under a permit from the Maryland Department of the Environment submit one combined Reporting Form and a manure analysis to Maryland’s Nutrient Management Program. 

Farmers have found that electronic filing is the fastest and most convenient way to submit their AIRs due to its convenience, accuracy, and speed. Users are guided through the application process and receive a delivery confirmation when the report is submitted and status updates as data is verified. 

A mail-in option remains available this year for farmers who want to continue to use paper reports. Paper forms will be mailed to all regulated farmers by the end of January and are available for download on the department’s website. For more information, farmers should contact their regional nutrient management office.

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January 22, 2026

NourishMD Grant Program Creates New Opportunities for Farmers Markets, Farm Stands, and Local Food Retailers to Strengthen Maryland’s Food System

NourishMD Grant Program Creates New Opportunities for Farmers Markets, Farm Stands, and Local Food Retailers to Strengthen Maryland’s Food System

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 22, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, has launched the NourishMD Grant Program to expand access to healthy, fresh food in communities experiencing food insecurity. Eligible farmers markets, farm stands, and other food retailers can apply for grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000 to support equipment, infrastructure, and SNAP/EBT technology that strengthens local food systems and farm viability. Applications are open through February 20, 2026, with awards expected in May 2026.

 Through this initiative, eligible retailers, including farmers markets, on-farm markets, and farm stands, may apply for grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, with up to $2 million in total funding available statewide. Funds are intended to strengthen local food infrastructure, support farmers, and improve food access for Maryland residents by investing in equipment, facilities, inventory expansion, and technology, particularly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/EBT) infrastructure and systems.

The NourishMD Grant Program presents a unique opportunity for both existing Maryland Market Money (MMM) access points and new, prospective retailers to build capacity, modernize operations, and better serve communities with high fresh food gaps. For farmers’ markets and farm-based retailers, the program can support critical upgrades such as refrigeration, point-of-sale technology, storage, and market infrastructure, helping farmers accept nutrition benefits, reduce administrative barriers, and reach more customers.

“Maryland’s farmers markets and farm-based retailers play a critical role in connecting communities to fresh, local food,” said Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks. “Through the NourishMD Grant Program, we are investing directly in the infrastructure and technology that farmers and market operators need to grow their businesses, accept nutrition benefits like SNAP and Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP), and ensure more Marylanders can access healthy, locally grown food.”

Eligible applicants include for-profit and nonprofit food retailers that serve communities with a Maryland Community Business Compass (MCBC) Fresh Food Gap Score of 60% or higher. To support direct-marketing farmers and consistent community food access, farmers markets and on-farm markets are exempt from the five-day-per-week requirement, provided they operate weekly throughout the year.

The program also supports Maryland Market Money’s broader mission to remove economic barriers to local food access while strengthening farm viability. By pairing NourishMD investments with nutrition incentive programs like MMM, farmers and market operators can expand both the physical and digital infrastructure needed to serve more customers and increase farm sales.

Marylanders’ access to healthy food should never depend on their ZIP code or neighborhood. Food deserts are a result of long-standing inequity and disinvestment that limits opportunity and dignity for too many Marylanders,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “This exciting partnership between DHCD and MDA has equity at its core — it will support small businesses, strengthen local economies, and ensure more families can access the healthy food they deserve.

The NourishMD Grant Program application portal opened January 20, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. EST, and will close February 20, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. EST. Award notifications are expected in May 2026, with funding disbursed following Board of Public Works approval.

Farmers markets, farm stands, and other interested food retailers are encouraged to learn more, explore eligibility, and apply by visiting: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Business/Pages/NourishMD-Grant-Program.aspx

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Registration Now Open for Maryland’s Farmers Market Conference

Registration Now Open for Maryland’s Farmers Market Conference

Annual Event Scheduled for March 10, 2026

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 20, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture today announced that registration is now open for the 2026 Maryland Farmers Market Conference. 

The annual conference brings together local farmers’ markets and farmers to share topics that will support and promote the success of farmers’ markets across the state. The conference will be held on Tuesday, March 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Maryland Department of Agriculture in Annapolis. Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks will be the keynote speaker and will be on hand for a meet and greet with participants. 

“Our farmers’ markets are the heart of Maryland’s communities, providing a direct link between farmers and the families they feed,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “I’m looking forward to serving as this year’s keynote speaker and sitting down with our market managers and producers. This conference is about giving our agricultural partners the practical tools they need to ensure 2026 is their most successful season yet.”

Direct marketing farmers, farmers market managers, agricultural professionals, and local food supporters are invited to hear from leaders working in food access programs, current issues facing farmers markets, such as conflict resolution, value-added food regulations, and immigration and enforcement trends. The event will also feature a marketing panel where we’ll hear about different strategies to promote your small farm or organization. Breakout sessions will allow participants to dive deeper into marketing, conflict resolution, and nutrient management plans.

Farmers Market Nutrition Program training and reauthorization will be available for all new and returning farmers participating in the program. This is an opportunity to complete required program authorization, ask questions, and ensure you are ready for the upcoming season.

Throughout the day, participating organizations will be available between sessions and during lunch to share resources and provide technical assistance. Maryland Market Money, now a program of MDA, will also be on site to share information. In addition, farmers are also encouraged to bring their scales to be certified with the MDA Weights and Measures office on-site.

Tickets to the conference are $35. Space is limited to the first 90 guests who reserve their ticket and send payment. Locally sourced breakfast pastries and lunch will be provided. Register for the conference here.

For questions, please reach out to Sara Servin at [email protected]

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January 21, 2026

Maryland’s Best Seafood Showcases at Seafood Expo North America/Seafood Processing North America

Maryland’s Best Seafood Showcases at Seafood Expo North America/Seafood Processing North America

Stop by booth 1004 to sample Maryland’s Seafood bounty

ANNAPOLIS, MD, (January 21, 2026) – Maryland’s Best, Maryland’s state-wide marketing program connecting consumers to farmers and watermen, will be showcasing wild-caught Chesapeake Bay Blue Catfish, fresh Maryland oysters, Bay scallops, and more delectable seafood from the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean at North America’s largest seafood event, Seafood Expo North America/Seafood Processing North America. The Expo will take place from March 15-17, 2026, in Boston, MA, at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. 

“Maryland has showcased at the Seafood Expo North America for years, highlighting Maryland businesses that catch and process the Chesapeake and Atlantic Ocean’s bounty,” said Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks. “As demonstrated in the Maryland booth at the 2026 show, attendees will be able to see how diverse Maryland’s seafood offerings are, ranging from bay scallops to wild-caught Chesapeake blue catfish.”

Maryland’s Best, located in booth #1004, will be showcasing Maryland products from five Maryland-based seafood companies, including Black Pearl Spice Company, Hollywood Oyster Company, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood/Culinary Craft Packaging, Fallen Pine Oyster, Baywater Seafood, and Blue Cat Fisheries. Stop by the booth to sample Maryland seafood products, an all-in-one mix for crab cakes, oyster salsa, Maryland blue crabs, oysters, and more. Maryland is known for its seafood, and we invite you to come see why for yourself at the Seafood Expo North America. 

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January 20, 2026

Secretary Atticks Appoints Elizabeth Hoffman as Program Manager for Leaders in Environmentally Engaged Farming Initiative

Secretary Atticks Appoints Elizabeth Hoffman as Program Manager for Leaders in Environmentally Engaged Farming Initiative

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 20, 2026)- The Maryland Department of Agriculture has named Elizabeth Hoffman as Program Manager for the state’s new Leaders in Environmentally Engaged Farming (LEEF) Program. This statewide program will recognize and reward conservation efforts, promote effective implementation, and honor Maryland farmers who adopt practices that benefit both the community and the agricultural industry.

“Elizabeth brings experience and enthusiasm to her new position with LEEF,” said Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “Her experience with Chesapeake Bay restoration strategies, understanding of conservation programming and partnerships across the watershed, and the need to support and include our state’s diverse farming operations as part of that work, make her a great fit for this role,” he said. 

Hoffman steps into her new role after serving as the Watershed Strategies Administrator for the Office of Resource Conservation since 2018. Over the past year, she has worked with MDA staff and stakeholders to develop the LEEF program’s framework, establish key partnerships, and facilitate farmer feedback. 

LEEF is a tiered recognition system that rewards farmers for a high level of commitment to conservation practices and community engagement. Established by the 2025 Chesapeake Bay Legacy Act, LEEF certification rewards farmers for their soil and water conservation efforts through the use of best management practices. The program also recognizes community-focused practices such as land preservation, supporting local food system resilience, advancing industry research, mentoring new and beginning farmers, and more, as part of a farm’s well-rounded portfolio of stewardship. 

In addition to amplifying the suite of programming and assistance available through MDA’s Office of Resource Conservation, LEEF aims to strengthen connections between the agricultural community, conservation partners, research institutions, and industry, while linking conservation outcomes to markets and economic returns. LEEF will coordinate closely with the department’s newly expanded Marketing and Agricultural Development Program.

Farms seeking LEEF certification will work directly with the department. Since the program is still being finalized, applications are not yet open at this time. More information will be shared this spring after the advisory committee convenes. Interested farmers should visit the website for more details or contact the LEEF program at [email protected].

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January 14, 2026

Maryland Spay and Neuter Grants Program Request for Proposals, FY27 Grant Cycle

Maryland Spay and Neuter Grants Program Request for Proposals, FY27 Grant Cycle

The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is announcing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for projects to be funded under the Spay and Neuter Grants Program (the Program). The Program funds projects with the goal of increasing spaying and neutering of dogs and cats in Maryland, thus reducing animal shelter overpopulation and cat and dog euthanasia rates.

A grant proposal (quoting Agriculture Article, §2-1602, Annotated Code of Maryland):

1. Shall target low–income communities and populations to the maximum extent possible and detail how that goal is to be accomplished; 
2. May target feral cat populations if the department determines that this targeting does not violate local law; 
3. Shall efficiently and effectively facilitate and promote the provision of spay and neuter services for cats and dogs; and
   
4. May include public education and outreach components. 

Eligible Applicants: The Program is open to government animal care and control and animal welfare organizations with 501(c)(3) status, in good standing with the IRS, State of Maryland, and local animal control agencies.

RFP Posting Date: January 16, 2026

Estimated Total Program Funding Available for this Funding Cycle: ~$850,000

Award Ceiling: Applicants may not request more than 25% of their organization/program annual operating budget, with a maximum grant allowance of $75,000. Organizations with a budget less than $20,000 may request a maximum of $5,000.

Award Floor: $5,000

Opportunity Category: Competitive Grants

Cost Share or Matching Requirements: None, but highly encouraged.

Selection Criteria: Eligible applications that are received prior to the deadline will be evaluated on a competitive basis. The Spay and Neuter Advisory Board (SNAB) will review, rank, and make funding recommendations to the MDA Secretary based on their evaluation of the following project components, as outlined in the Spay and Neuter Grants Program Regulations 15.01.10.05.

(1) The SNAB will rank eligible applications and select for funding those that most effectively and efficiently achieve the purpose of the Fund.

(2) In determining which projects to fund, the SNAB will consider:

(a) How low-income communities and populations are targeted and how the goal of reaching those communities and populations will be accomplished;

(b) How well the project proposal identifies and assesses the need for additional spay and neuter services in the targeted community or population, and how effectively and efficiently the project will meet that need;

(c) Whether or not the project violates local laws, including but not limited to local laws regarding feral cat populations;

(d) How the project proposal identifies and meets the need to promote spay/neuter services to the targeted population or community through education and outreach;

(e) The extent to which the project increases the number of spay/neuter procedures, and impacts cat and dog intake and euthanasia rates in Maryland animal shelters;

(f)  The expected project results relative to the amount of funds requested; and

(g) The qualifications and experience of the applicant and the individuals who will be responsible for implementing the project.

Final funding decisions will be made by the MDA Secretary. The Point of Contact listed on the application will be notified by email soon after funding decisions have been made.

Timeline

Application Window Opens: 12:00 PM EST, Friday, January 16, 2026

Application Window Closes: 5:01 PM EST, Friday, April 17, 2026

Proposal Due Diligence/Review Period: April through August 2026

Approved by MDA Secretary: Usually within 30 days after recommendations are submitted to the Secretary.

Notifications of Funding Decisions: Within 30 days after approval by the Secretary.

Grant Agreement/Signatures: Within 30 days after notifications.

Application Process: Applications will be posted on the MDA Spay and Neuter Grants Program webpage on the MDA website. There will be two applications: Pet-Focused and Feral Cat-Focused.

Detailed application-specific instructions are posted and downloadable from the Program’s webpage. The application(s) must be received by MDA before 5:01 PM EST on the due date listed above. Late submissions will not be accepted. 

For more information on the application process, what projects qualify for funding, allowable budget items, requirements from grantees, and penalties, see the Program’s instructions, available on the program webpage.

Contact Information: 

Jen Swanson

Spay and Neuter Grants Program Coordinator

[email protected]

410-841-5766

Additional Program information: MDA Spay and Neuter Grants Program Webpage

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Department’s Spay and Neuter Grants Program FY27 Grant Application Window Opens January 16 and Closes April 17

Department’s Spay and Neuter Grants Program FY27 Grant Application Window 

Opens January 16 and Closes April 17

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 14, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Spay and Neuter Grants Program seeks applications for competitive grant projects that will help reduce intake and euthanasia in Maryland animal shelters. Applications may be for pet-focused projects and/or feral cat-focused projects.

The FY27 grant cycle will award approximately $850,000 in funds to eligible projects that efficiently and effectively facilitate, promote, and increase spay and neuter services for cats and dogs in Maryland. 

Applicants may not request more than 25% of their organization/program’s annual operating budget, with a maximum grant allowance of $75,000. Organizations with a budget of less than $20,000 may request a maximum of $5,000. The minimum request allowable is $5,000 for all applicants.

Application forms, instructions, and other materials have been updated for FY27 and will be available on the Spay and Neuter Program’s webpage on January 16, 2026, at 12:00 PM. The FY27 application window closes on April 17, 2026, at 5:01 PM, and late submissions will not be considered. Instructions from the previous grant cycle are available on the site now for review and guidance. 

Eligible organizations include municipal or county governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal welfare organizations. Applicants must be in Good Standing with the IRS, State of Maryland, and local Animal Control Authorities. See the program’s RFP document for more information on eligibility and the application process. 

This program is funded through fees paid by the pet food industry for each product they register to sell within the state. To date, the program has awarded $9,827,838 in funds, totaling 355 grant projects that collectively have completed over 143,232 spay and neuter procedures.

The Spay and Neuter Grants Program was established by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2013 Legislative Session. A seven-member advisory board, appointed by the Maryland Secretary of Agriculture, reviews all grant applications and provides recommendations to the Secretary on how grants should be administered. 

More information about the Spay and Neuter Grants Program is available on the department’s website. For questions about the program, contact the Spay and Neuter Grants Program Coordinator, Jen Swanson, at (410) 841-5766 or [email protected]. 

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Follow Maryland Department of Agriculture on Facebook @MdAgDept 

January 7, 2026

Queen Anne’s County Control Area Released

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                                                                CONTACT:  Lauren Moses, 410-841-5889

Queen Anne’s County Control Area Released

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 7, 2026)– The Maryland Department of Agriculture has announced the release of the control area within Queen Anne’s County, MD. The previously infected premise remains under quarantine, but all other farms in the former control area, provided they are not located within another active control area, are no longer subject to movement or placement restrictions and are no longer required to conduct enhanced surveillance testing specific to the control area.

Routine HPAI surveillance continues statewide. Farms that placed birds prior to the release of the control area are still required to complete biosecurity audits if those audits have not already been completed.

Currently, there are no active control areas on Delmarva; however, this does not mean the threat of HPAI is not present, especially with the migratory season still upon us. Maintaining strong, consistent biosecurity practices remains essential.

What Does it Take to Release a Control Area?  

The following conditions must be met to release a Control Area:

• The infected flock has been depopulated, and the compost piles must be capped. 
• Initial virus elimination must be completed for the infected premises. 
• Required surveillance testing for commercial and backyard flocks must be completed. Routine surveillance will continue throughout the state. Even though these control areas have been released, any farm in a control area that did not complete a biosecurity audit and had chicks placed before the control area was closed will still need to do so. 

Avian influenza is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus that spreads quickly among birds through nasal and eye secretions and manure. The virus can be spread from flock to flock, including flocks of wild birds, through contact with infected poultry, equipment, and the clothing and shoes of caretakers. This virus affects poultry, like chickens, ducks, and turkeys, and some wild bird species, such as ducks, geese, shorebirds, and raptors.  

If You Have Sick Poultry Or Experience Increased Mortality 

• Commercial poultry producers should notify the company they grow for when they notice signs of disease.
• Backyard flock owners who notice any signs of HPAI in their flock should not take dead or sick birds to a lab to be tested or move them off-site. To report any unusual or sudden increases to MDA Animal Health Program at 410-841-5810.

For more information on High Path Avian Influenza in Maryland, please visit: https://mda.maryland.gov/Pages/AvianFlu.aspx. 

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