The University of Maryland Extension's Bay-Wise Program educates residents about landscape practices that protect the Chesapeake Bay and our local waterways. We offer the following programs to Howard County residents. Together, by changing a few simple practices, we can help keep our Maryland water clean and healthy.
Bay-Wise Certification
Have you already adopted ecologically sound landscaping methods in caring for your property? Test
yourself with the Maryland Living Landscapes Metric. Download the file and use the fillable form to rate your landscaping practices. Each action is worth 3 points, and if you have a total of 80-100 points, you may be well on your way to being recognized for your gardening care. Save a copy of your completed PDF and email it to howardbaywise@gmail.com. We will contact you to schedule a visit to evaluate your landscape. Homeowners who demonstrate good Bay-Wise practices are awarded a Bay-Wise certificate and may optionally have a small sign installed on their property to recognize their Bay-Wise status.
Homeowner Consultations
Not ready for certification? Homeowners may request an on-site evaluation of their property by a team of Howard County Master Gardeners and receive advice on dealing with concerns such as stormwater management, erosion, lawn care, Integrated Pest Management, composting, creating wildlife habitat, and including native plants in the landscape. Consultations are offered at no charge and can be initiated by completing a Homeowner Consultation Request Form.
Community Education
Look for Bay-Wise exhibits at community events and in Howard County libraries. Team members are also available for presentations to community groups on topics including Bay-Wise Landscaping, Storm Water Management, Trees, Rain Gardens, Green Roofs, and Landscaping without Lawns.
Demonstration Garden
With support from Howard County, the Bay-Wise Master Gardeners converted the garden at the entrance to the Alpha Ridge landfill into a trial site to test whether various perennials can survive under heavy deer pressure. Small plants with varying site requirements are evaluated annually for their response to deer browse. Stop by and check it out.
More Questions?
For additional questions about the Howard County Bay-Wise Program, please get in touch with howardbaywise@gmail.com. If you are seeking information about the State-Wide Program, including contact information for the State-Wide Bay-Wise Coordinator, please visit the UME Bay-Wise Program page.
Useful Links
- Stormwater Management
- Howard County Stormwater programs for residents
- Sustainable Lawn Care
- Home Composting
- Native Plants for Wildlife Habitat and Conservation Landscaping
- Pollinator Gardens
- Deer-Resistant Plants
- Identifying Invasive Plants
