Publications

Authors: Satana (Mays) Sparks - Karen Wood - Jessica Mellon - Torrey Silliman - Vernelle Mitchell Hawkins

Growing Impact: Multiplying Efforts in 4-H Programs" illustrates how to design initiatives that amplify your efforts and enhance the outcomes of your 4-H program. By developing capacity within 4-H, providing resources, and training educators and leaders, 4-H programs can generate ripple effects that broaden their reach over time. This publication shares four methods for multiplying efforts: delegating, collaborating internally and externally, and communicating through publishing. As these strategies are embraced, it will help improve 4-H Educator resiliency and strengthen programs to better the outcomes. The potential for positive change will grow, leaving a lasting impact on youth and communities served by 4-H. Authors: Santana Sparks (Mays), Karen Wood, Jessica Mellon, Torrey Silliman, and Vernelle Mitchell-Hawkins Title: Growing Impact: Multiplying Efforts in 4-H Programs (FS-2024-0746).

Authors: Troy Anthony Anderson

This factsheet examines the relationship between cognitive dissonance and the clarification of financial values, emphasizing its pivotal role in advancing financial literacy. Cognitive dissonance, characterized by the mental discomfort that arises from conflicting beliefs and actions, can significantly influence financial decision-making processes. To achieve clarity in financial values, it is crucial to identify and harmonize financial objectives with personal values, thereby mitigating potential dissonance. The author explores the ways in which internal conflicts can impede financial success, drawing attention to psychological repercussions such as stress, anxiety, and decreased satisfaction. By acknowledging and aligning key values with financial goals, individuals can alleviate cognitive dissonance, thereby facilitating decisions that foster financial well-being. The article further examines the psychological effects of financial dissonance and suggests pragmatic strategies for alignment, underscoring the significance of personal values in the realm of financial decision-making. Ultimately, this article advocates for comprehensive financial education aimed at developing a mindset resilient to external pressures. Such education empowers individuals to make consistent, fulfilling financial decisions, thereby securing a stable and prosperous future. Author: Troy Anthony Anderson, Ed.D.; Title: The Influence of Cognitive Dissonance on Financial Value Clarification (FS-2025-0770).

Authors: Kaustubh Shah - Cara Peterson - Hemendra Kumar, Ph.D.

This publication explains evapotranspiration (ET) concepts and estimation methods, crop coefficients for major crops, and step-by-step irrigation depth calculations, showing how ET-based scheduling improves precision irrigation, crop water demands, and avoids excess water application. Authors: Kaustubh Shah, Cara Peterson, Ph.D., and Hemendra Kumar, Ph.D.; Title: Evapotranspiration and Its Importance in Precision Irrigation Water Management (FS-2025-0792).

Authors: Navonne Owen

Anxiety in certain situations is normal. This is true with public speaking. Incorporating these 10 simple techniques into the preparation and presentation of your speech can make you a more confident speaker. Author: Navonne Owen; Title: Ten Ways to Increase Your Public Speaking Confidence (FS-2024-0713).

Authors: Serena Taylor Newton

This publication provides step-by-step instructions for Adopt-A-Lot participants, property owners, and renters on how to access municipal water in Baltimore City, Maryland. Author: Serena Newton; Title: Municipal Water Access for Adopt-A-Lot Program Participants & Establishing an Irrigation Account for Property Owners & Renters (EB-2024-0722).

Authors: Serena Taylor Newton - Paul Goeringer

General liability insurance helps farmers manage legal risk by covering accidents, negligence claims, and defense costs, while noting key exclusions. Authors: Serena Newton and Paul Goeringer; Title: Understanding Agricultural Liability: General Liability Insurance (FS-2025-0764).

Authors: Hayden Schug - Dr. Galen P. Dively II

A practical identification and management guide for common soybean pests in Maryland. Including pest biology, seasonal scouting guidance, and current IPM recommendations to help reduce yield loss. Authors: Hayden Schug and Dr. Galen Dively; Title: Common Soybean Pests in Maryland" (FS-2025-0759).

Authors: Troy Anthony Anderson - Jesse Ketterman

Credit plays a pivotal role in modern financial planning, enabling individuals to manage cash flow, make major purchases, and secure future financial stability through strategic borrowing. While installment, revolving, and open credit accounts offer flexibility, responsible repayment is critical to avoid financial pitfalls. Budgeting is also essential to manage expenditures and prevent debt cycles. Securing credit depends on factors like payment history, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio, impacting loan terms and interest rates. Mismanagement can lead to financial distress, while effective credit use can enhance economic well-being. Authors: Troy Anthony Anderson, Ed.D., and Jesse Ketterman, Ph.D.; Title: Consumer Credit: Balancing Access and Risks to Achieve Financial Stability (FS-2025-0755).

Authors: Qianwen Lu - Neith Little - Kayla Griffith - Maxine Da-Som Yoon - Xuan Wei

Learn how to stay compliant with Maryland’s Nutrient Management Plan requirements by understanding recordkeeping rules, key deadlines, practical suggestions, and best practices to protect soil, crops, and Chesapeake Bay water quality. Authors: Qianwen Lu, UME Urban Ag Production Specialist, Neith Little, UME Urban Ag Educator, Kayla Griffith, UME Nutrient Management Faculty Specialist, Maxine Da-Som Yoon, Home Horticulture Educator and Master Gardener Coordinator, and Xuan Wei, UME Urban Agribusiness Specialist; Title: Keep up with Nutrient Management Plan Requirements in Maryland (FS-2024-0739).

Authors: Anna Glenn

This factsheet provides guidance for 4-H coaches to create successful competitive programs, focusing on judging contests, Skillathons, and quiz bowls. It emphasizes the importance of the 4-H Thriving Model, which fosters youth development by creating a supportive environment that encourages social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Key elements include igniting interest, fostering belonging, building supportive relationships, and encouraging meaningful engagement, leading to positive long-term outcomes for youth participants. Author: Anna Glenn; Title: Tips for 4-H Competitive Event Coaches: How to Create Thriving Programs (FS-2025-0760).