Publications

Authors: Joshua M. McGrath

Our objective was to develop a phosphorus site index (PSI) that uses readily available information to evaluate the relative risk of P transport from agricultural fields, including vegetable and row crop production and pasture based systems where P may be applied either as inorganic or organic fertilizer. Furthermore, the PSI should be applicable within all physiographic provinces present in Maryland. Phosphorus transport is controlled by site characteristics (e.g. hydrology and slope), climate, and P sources (e.g. manure, inorganic fertilizer, and soil P). The revised PSI, or the University of Maryland – Phosphorus Management Tool (UM-PMT), seeks to include new science relative to site and source factors and highlight management decisions so that the learning opportunities associated with performing a P index are more pronounced. The overall objective is to identify critical areas where there is a high P loss potential due to both a high transport potential and a large source of P, and also to encourage the use of management practices in those critical source areas that protect water quality.

Authors: Dr. Nathaniel Tablante - Jonathan Moyle

Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT) is an acute respiratory disease of chickens and occasionally, pheasants and peafowl, which often leads to severe losses in the poultry industry as well as backyard flocks.

Authors: James C. Hanson - Kevin McNew

The local basis, defined as the cash price minus futures price, reflects important information about regional supply and demand for a commodity. Corn basis estimates can be used by farmers, grain marketing firms, processors and feed buyers to forecast regional prices, make production or storage decisions, or assess different grain purchasing alternatives. This fact sheet gives monthly average estimates of corn basis and cash prices for five regions in Maryland.

Authors: James C. Hanson - Kevin McNew

The local basis, defined as the cash price minus futures price, reflects important information about regional supply and demand for a commodity. Wheat basis estimates can be used by farmers, grain marketing firms, processors and feed buyers to forecast regional prices, make production or storage decisions, or assess different grain purchasing alternatives. This fact sheet gives monthly average estimates of wheat basis and cash prices for three regions in Maryland.

Authors: Jonathan Moyle - Jennifer L. Rhodes - Dale Johnson

The home chicken flock can be an excellent source of low-cost, high-quality poultry products. This publication provides the basic tools to start a successful flock.

Authors: Paul Goeringer

As we approach the end of the year, many farmers and their landlords will be making decisions on renewing land leases. Should the rent be increased? Should additional terms be included? As you begin these discussions, farmers and landlords should consider reviewing Agricultural Leasing in Maryland. The booklet is full of helpful tips and things both parties should consider when leasing land. The booklet also contains form leases that can be used for both parties to begin to develop their own leases. Think your current rental rate is too low or too high? Need help in coming up with a fair rental rate? Then check out Aglease101.org (http://aglease101.org/), a product of the North Central Farm Management Extension Committee. This site provides worksheets and other helpful documents to help landlords and farmers develop rental rates that work for them. Think your current rental rate is too low or too high? Need help in coming up with a fair rental rate? Then check out Aglease101.org (http://aglease101.org/), a product of the North Central Farm Management Extension Committee. This site provides worksheets and other helpful documents to help landlords and farmers develop rental rates that work for them. Author: Paul Goeringer; Title: Agricultural Leasing in Maryland (FS-971)

Authors: Robert Kratochvil - Patricia Steinhilber

Recent research has demonstrated that winter wheat and barley grain yields and economic return to fertilizer applications are not reliably improved by a fall nitrogen application when an adequate amount of nitrate already exists in the soil. Regulations effective October 2012 require that farmers who plant wheat and barley for grain production must test for soil nitrate concentration before they may apply nitrogen in fall.

Authors: Bryan Butler - Lisa Bauer

This publication summarizes a project that took place in the Mid-Atlantic region, but high tunnels can be successfully used in a wide variety of climates and locations. They are especially profitable when located close to good markets, such as urban and peri-urban areas.

Authors: Paul Goeringer - Lori Lynch - Sudeep A. Mathew

The Risk Management Agency (RMA) under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) promotes, supports, and regulates risk management solutions for America’s agricultural producers by providing federal crop insurance programs. In addition, the agency provides education and outreach programs in risk management. The RMA develops the premium rate, administer premium and expense subsidy, approve and support products, and reinsure private sector companies via Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC).

Authors: Jessica Renshaw - J. Richard Nottingham

From choosing the right trailer and towing vehicle to proper preparations prior to traveling, this publication outlines the important factors to consider before transporting your horse. The most important decision in selecting a trailer is the comfort and safety of the animal. Choose a towing vehicle with an adequate tow rating for your trailer. Use the pre-trip safety checklist included in this fact sheet to go over the trailer, towing vehicle and equipment needed before trailering and in case of emergencies. Proper preparation and practice for trailering your horse will avoid many problems while traveling.