Nutrient Management Program

  Nutrient Management plans are science-based documents that help farmers manage fertilizers, animal waste, and other nutrient sources more efficiently to meet crop needs while protecting water quality in streams, rivers and the Chesapeake Bay.  All farmers grossing $2,500 a year or more or livestock producers with 8,000 pounds or more of live animal weight are required by law to run their operations using a nutrient management plan that addresses both nitrogen and phosphorus inputs.  The requirement applies to all agricultural land used to produce plants, food, feed, fiber, animals or other agricultural products.