The University of Maryland Extension (UME) Agricultural Nutrient Management Program (ANMP) has released its 2023-2024 Annual Report, highlighting a year of renewed focus, improved processes, and substantial impact across Maryland’s agricultural community. Following the program’s reinstatement on September 30, 2023, UME has made strides in supporting farming practices and compliance with state regulations.
Under the leadership of Dr. Darren Jarboe, Assistant Director and Program Leader of the Agriculture and Food Systems Program, the ANMP provided critical support to Maryland farmers, offering nutrient management planning and training designed to promote environmentally responsible practices. In the past year, UME worked with 1,132 farmers, developing nutrient management plans for over 245,000 acres across 5,456 farm tracts. These plans help farmers optimize nutrient use and minimize nonpoint source pollution, ensuring the sustainable use of Maryland's natural resources.
Program Highlights:
- Enhanced Support for Farmers: Through extensive workshops and consultations, UME helped farmers comply with Maryland’s nutrient management regulations. Plans included phosphorus management evaluations for 6,679 acres, manure recommendations for 3,349 fields, and specialized guidance for 146 management units in grape, tree, and small fruit production.
- Expansion in Staffing and Expertise: ANMP hired eight new nutrient management advisors in 2024, bringing the team to 15 full-time and four part-time advisors. This expanded team, including new hires in Baltimore, Montgomery, and Frederick Counties, has strengthened local outreach and technical support. Ongoing searches aim to fill additional roles in Anne Arundel, Carroll, Charles, and Washington Counties.
- Congratulations: Long-time Nutrient Management Advisors Francis Warring and Craig Yohn are recognized for their years of dedicated service and commitment to the program!
- Farmer Training and Certification (FTC): The FTC program certified 46 farmers to develop nutrient management plans for their operations. This program combines hands-on software training with certification exams administered by the Maryland Department of Agriculture.
- Voucher Training for Nutrient Applicators: UME conducted 30 training sessions statewide, delivering nutrient management voucher training to 851 applicators to ensure best practices in nutrient application.
UME conducted a survey during its winter meetings, receiving feedback from 462 participants. Findings showed that 88% of respondents believed nutrient management education improved efficiency on their farms. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction, with 92% agreeing that the program helped maintain or improve soil health and 90% acknowledging its role in improving manure management practices.
“Thanks to the dedication of our partners, the agricultural community, and the ANMP team, the program has made significant strides this year,” said Dr. Jarboe. “These achievements reflect our commitment to enhancing nutrient management practices, supporting Maryland’s farmers, and protecting our environment.”
Click here to learn more about the Agricultural Nutrient Management Program, and find the full 2023-2024 Annual Report.