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Nutrient Management
Pesticide Disposal Program
The Maryland Department of Agriculture, in cooperation with University of Maryland Extension, is offering growers an opportunity to dispose of unusable pesticides at no cost. There are no registration or disposal fees associated with the disposal program. This program offers an opportunity for agricultural producers to safely and legally dispose of old unwanted, banned or unusable pesticides. To take part in this program, select the forms below.
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Private Pesticide Applicator Training
Private pesticide training and certification exams are given yearly. Those individuals desiring to acquire a private pesticide applicator license must attend a pesticide certification training and exam. The next class will be on March 6, 2012 with the exam being administered on March 13, 2012.
Click here for upcoming training classes.
The objective of this program is to educate farmers and those who use pesticides in the proper use, handling and safety of pesticides and prepare them to take the private pesticide applicator exam given by the Maryland Department of Agriculture. To learn more click Pesticide Regulation Section.
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Nutrient Management Advisor
Maegan Perdue is the Nutrient Management Advisor serving Somerset County. She works with producers to develop nutrient management plans that balance nutrient application rates with plant nutrient requirements. The purpose of a nutrient management plan is to help producers manage crop nutrients more efficiently (mainly nitrogen and phosphorus) that pose a threat to the Chesapeake Bay. The Nutrient Management Program, a cooperative effort with the Maryland Department of Agriculture, includes soil and manure testing, developing realistic yield goals, corn pre-sidedress nitrate tests (PSNT) and equipment calibration.
Producers must have nutrient management plans for their operations keeps in compliance with the 1998 Water Quality Improvement Act. The efforts aid in protecting water quality and enhancing farm profitability for producers. All producers with an annual income of at least $2500 or have more than 8000 pounds of live animal weight included in the operation are required to have a nutrient management plan.
Remember, it is the producer's responsibility to insure that a nutrient management plan is up to date and accurate. For example, if 50 more acres of soybeans are planted than originally planned, it must be reflected within the nutrient management plan.
A new soil test is a good place to start when updating a plan. If assistance is needed to take soil samples, please stop by the office or call 410-651-1350.
ShareThisFor more information, contact Maegan Perdue, Nutrient Management Advisor; 410-651-1350
Last updated: 02/29/2012