Cost-Share Grants for Spring Manure Transport and Injection Available

Cost-Share Grants for Spring Manure Transport and Injection Available

ANNAPOLIS, MD (March 3, 2026) –The Maryland Department of Agriculture reminds farmers that they can apply for cost-share funding to help cover the cost of transporting certain types of manure to crop fields with acceptable soil phosphorus levels. Additionally, grants are available to offset the cost of injecting liquid manure into the soil to prevent nutrient runoff and reduce odors. 

If you plan to transport manure this spring and summer, please be aware that all projects must be completed by September 9, 2026.  Claims for payment should be submitted to the department’s Conservation Grants Office by October 9, 2026. 

When transporting poultry manure, please visit our website to check for important Control Orders from the Maryland Secretary of Agriculture regarding safe handling, storage, and transport practices to mitigate the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

Here are the program highlights: 

• If you plan to transport poultry manure to qualifying fields with acceptable soil phosphorus levels or alternative use projects that can safely utilize the product, you can receive up to $28/ton. 

• If you plan to transport dairy and livestock manure to qualifying fields, cost-share funding of up to 87.5% of eligible costs is offered.  

• FastTrack and standard transport options are available for both poultry and dairy/livestock manure. 

• Farmers can receive up to $45/acre for costs associated with injecting liquid manure into the soil. (Please note that poultry manure is not eligible for this option due to its low moisture content.)
  

If you want to apply for FastTrack (haul now, apply later) applications for poultry and dairy/livestock manure, you can download the application from the website. If you don’t qualify for FastTrack, you can contact your local soil conservation district to apply for our standard grants. These grants require pre-approval before manure is transported or injected. 

The Department’s Conservation Grants Program offers manure transport and injection grants. To apply for these grants, you must be in good standing with the program and in compliance with Maryland’s nutrient management regulations. Need help finding poultry manure? You can contact a poultry manure broker or a spreading service for assistance.  For more information, please contact the Manure Management Program at 410-841-5864.

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