Nutrient Management

Farm profitability requires careful balancing of inputs to production outputs. Nutrient management plans have been developed for most crop, poultry and livestock operations in Talbot County. Manure is applied to crop fields according to tested levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. Crops use these nutrients greatly reducing nutrient leaching and run-off to surface and ground water. Management plans have reduced or eliminated prepared fertilizer inputs and helped farmers use manure efficiently. With the passage of the Maryland Clean Water Improvement Act nutrient management plans have become mandatory for agriculture operations.

There are 60 agricultural producers in Talbot County who farm 24,684 acres that have had plans done at a minimal cost to them. Farmers following nutrient management plans generally save money by using manure and fertilizer efficiently. Good nutrient planning not only adds up to more profits for farmers, but provides cleaner water in the Miles, Tred Avon, and Choptank Rivers.

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For more information, contact Sherman Councell

Last updated: 12/15/2011