Services We Provide

The Agricultural Nutrient Management Program, funded by the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA), offers a variety of services to help farmers manage nutrients effectively and protect the environment. Here’s what we do:

  1. Nutrient Management Plans
    We help Maryland farmers create customized nutrient management plans through a network of advisors located in all 23 county Extension offices.
  2. Education and Support
    We provide ongoing training and technical assistance to certified nutrient management consultants and farm operators. Our specialists, based at the University of Maryland College Park (UMCP), are here to help you stay up-to-date and compliant.
  3. Soil Testing
    Our advisors can assist with soil analysis for the following tests:
    1. Pre-Sidedress Nitrate Test (PSNT)
    2. Fall Soil Nitrate Test (FSNT)
  4. Manure Spreader Calibration and Yield Checks
    We offer hands-on instruction and support to help you calibrate manure spreaders and set realistic yield goals.

Our Priorities for the Year

To ensure we serve farmers effectively, we focus on the following priorities:

  1. Farmers with Pollution Issues
    We prioritize farmers identified by the MDA as having pollution concerns.
  2. Existing Clients with Animal Operations
    Farmers with livestock operations who need updates to their nutrient management plans.
  3. Small, Urban, and Underserved Farms
    We provide extra support to small-scale, urban, and underserved farming operations.
  4. First-Come, First-Served
    All other farmers who need to comply with the Water Quality Improvement Act and have provided complete information are served on a first-come, first-served basis.

We strive to deliver plans quickly and efficiently. If needed, we’ll assign planners from other counties to ensure timely service.

Additional Information

  • Farmers Using Commercial Fertilizer
    If you only use commercial fertilizer, we encourage you to work with your fertilizer dealer’s certified nutrient management consultant.
  • Certified Farm Operators
    If you’re a certified farm operator, we strongly encourage you to write your own nutrient management plans. Our UMD specialists are available to assist you.
  • Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs)
    All nutrient management plans for CAFOs without land will be prepared by MDA regional staff.

How We Can Help You

Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting out, our team is here to support you with:

  • Customized nutrient management plans
  • Training and technical assistance
  • Compliance with state regulations

Let us help you protect the environment while optimizing your farm’s productivity!