MEDIA ADVISORY: MDA to Demonstrate Conservation Practices to Help Homeowners Comply with New Law

ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 11, 2012) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) invites members of the media and residents to visit the agency headquarters, 50 Harry Truman Parkway, Annapolis, on Monday, April 16, from 11 a.m. to noon , to learn about new requirements homeowners will be required to follow under the Fertilizer Use Act of 2011, beginning next year. In recognition of Earth Day, demonstrations will be conducted to showcase good conservation practices homeowners can undertake to help improve water quality.

The Fertilizer Use Act of 2011 limits the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus in lawn fertilizer products and implements new restrictions on how homeowners and professional applicators may use those products. Beginning in October 2013, homeowners will be required to abide by maximum application rates and be prohibited from applying lawn fertilizer on impervious surfaces, frozen ground or when heavy rain is predicted. Fertilizer will be prohibited for use between November 15 and March 1; within 15 feet of a waterway; or as a de-icer. Violators are subject to penalties of up to $2,000. Those attending the demonstration event will receive more comprehensive information about the changes.

Home and Garden Information Center Director Jon Traunfeld will demonstrate a number of easy yet important steps for homeowners to take including: how to take a soil test, how to read a soil lab report, how to read a fertilizer bag, water conservation, composting and how to grow a vegetable garden. Dennis Howard, chief of MDA’s Pesticide Regulation Section, will discuss backyard pest management techniques that mirror a farmer’s integrated pest management programs.  Other agricultural and gardening experts will also be on hand to answer questions.

What:     Demonstration of conservation measures that homeowners can take to comply with the Fertilizer Use Law, to incorporate good environmental stewardship at their homes and to recognize Earth Day.

When/Where: April 16, from 11 a.m. to noon at MDA, 50 Harry Truman Parkway, Annapolis (rain or shine)

Who: Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance will make remarks. UM Home and Garden Information Center Director Jon Traunfeld and MDA Chief of Pesticide Regulation Dennis Howard will conduct demonstrations. Other MDA staff will also be available.

NOTE: THE MEDIA AND PUBLIC ARE INVITED AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND.