Maryland Agricultural Highlights — February 2020

Continuing Education Webinar for Nutrient Management Consultants

The Maryland Department of Agriculture and the University of Maryland Extension will host a live webinar on Thursday, February 13 from 2-3:30 p.m. on how to complete the 2019 Annual Implementation Report. The report summarizes nutrient applications made in calendar year 2019 and is due to the department’s Nutrient Management Program by March 1. To register, click here or contact Emileigh Lucas at erosso@umd.edu.

March 1 Filing Deadline for Nutrient Management Reports Fast Approaching

The Maryland Department of Agriculture reminds farmers that March 1 is the deadline for submitting Annual Implementation Reports summarizing nutrient applications made during calendar year 2019. Reporting forms and instructions were mailed in January to approximately 5,500 farmers who are regulated under Maryland’s Nutrient Management Program. Additional copies may be picked up at regional nutrient management and University of Maryland Extension offices or downloaded here. For more information, call 410-841-5959.

Nutrient Management Voucher Training and Recertification Training

The Maryland Department of Agriculture and the University of Maryland Extension offer free voucher training and renewal courses for farm operators who apply nutrients to 10 or more acres of cropland. The two-hour course is required once every three years. Register for the voucher training at local Extension offices. For a list of dates and locations, visit the department’s website.

Farm Bill Workshops Scheduled for February 2020

The Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics (AREC) in partnership with the University of Maryland Extension and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency, will host a series of regional workshops aimed at educating Maryland producers on changes associated with the 2018 Farm Bill. For a list of dates and locations, visit extension’s website.

‘How to Calculate the Phosphorus Management Tool’ Workshop Set for February 26

The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Nutrient Management Program in partnership with the University of Maryland Extension will offer a workshop for certified nutrient management consultants on how to use the Phosphorus Management Tool. The workshop will be held February 26 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the department’s headquarters building in Annapolis. Participants receive six continuing education credits upon completion. For a registration form, click here.

Nutrient Management Certification Class for Nursery/Greenhouse Operators Set for March 4

The Maryland Department of Agriculture and the University of Maryland Extension will offer a training and certification program for operators of nurseries, greenhouses, and controlled environments who want to become certified by the department to write and update their own nutrient management plans. The training will take place Wednesday, March 4 from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the University of Maryland’s Central Maryland Research and Education Center in Ellicott City. The cost is $35 and includes lunch and the exam fee. Register by February 28. For registration information, visit the department’s website or contact Andrew Ristvey at 410-827-8056 ext. 113 or aristvey@umd.edu.

Southern Maryland Horse Summit Set for March 8

The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC) in partnership with Equine Studies at the University of Maryland and the Maryland Horse Industry Board, is hosting the first Southern Maryland Horse Summit on Sunday, March 8 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Annapolis. The one-day event aims to inform and inspire horse owners, riders, and equine businesses from around the region. The summit offers three simultaneous seminar tracks with topics that are broadly applicable to all riding disciplines, from beginner to advanced youth and adult riders, as well as to barn owners, equine-related businesses, and horse enthusiasts. Tickets range from $30-$45. For registration information, click here.

2019 Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share Program Annual Report Published

The Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share (MACS) Program has published its 2019 annual report highlighting progress in helping farmers finance the installation of best management practices on their farms to protect natural resources and help Maryland meet its Chesapeake Bay cleanup goals. The report is available on the website.

Maryland Census 2020

The U.S. Census Bureau conducts a count of every person living in the United States every 10 years. The data collected by the census determines Maryland’s representation in Congress, impacts local legislative districts, and is also used to distribute billions in federal funds to local communities. Completing your census form ensures Maryland families, neighbors, and communities receive the support they need. Census forms can be completed online, over the phone, or by mail. Mark your calendars for Census Day on April 1, 2020 and be sure to participate. More information can be found on the Maryland Census 2020 website.

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Maryland’s Conservation Partnership is a coalition of federal, state, and local agriculture agencies dedicated to protecting and conserving natural resources and promoting Maryland agriculture. Members include the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts, the State Soil Conservation Committee, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Farm Service Agency and University of Maryland Extension.