Source: Maryland Department of Agriculture Office of Resource Conservation
GET A FREE CONSERVATION PLAN
Did you know that there is a simple way to address all natural resource concerns for your operation instead of tackling problems one by one? Consider getting a Soil Conservation and Water Quality Plan.
These plans identify and prioritize environmental concerns for your entire operation. They are developed free of charge by technical experts in your local soil conservation district and will provide you with a blueprint for making environmental improvements as time, need, and money allow.
A typical Soil Conservation and Water Quality Plan includes:
• Farm map;
• Soil information;
• Inventory of natural resources;
• Engineering notes;
• Recommended best management practices, including weed and pest management.
Getting a conservation plan is a voluntary decision that is based on the needs and objectives of you, the landowner or operator. Best management practices proposed in these plans are also based on your input and needs.
Conservation plans are “flexible” and may be altered as your operation or objectives change.
Contact your local soil conservation district for free assistance in developing a Soil Conservation and Water Quality Plan for your operation.
GET THE RECOGNITION YOU DESERVE
Let others know that you are hard at work protecting natural resources on your farm and the Chesapeake Bay. Sign up for the Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts’ Farm Stewardship Certification and
Assessment Program (FSCAP). This environmental recognition program certifies operators who go the extra mile by addressing all resource concerns on their farms and complying with Maryland’s nutrient management regulations.
To date, over 30 horse farms have been certified. FSCAP partners include the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Maryland Farm Bureau, Maryland Department of Agriculture, and USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service.
To learn more, go to mascd.net or contact the Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts at 302-353-9733.
NUMBERS TO KNOW
For more information or free assistance in planning or implementing best management practices, please visit mda.maryland.gov/HOW for quick access to various links on how to keep your farm healthy and thriving. Additional information can be found at the numbers below.
Maryland Department of Agriculture
• Nutrient Management Program 410-841-5959
• Plant Protection And Weed Management 410-841-5920
• Pesticide Regulation 410-841-5710
• Maryland Horse Industry Board 410-841-5798
Maryland’s Soil Conservation Districts
Allegany…………………. 301-777-1747, ext. 3
Anne Arundel………….410-571-6757
Baltimore County……. 410-527-5920, ext. 3
Calvert……………………. 410-535-1521, ext. 3
Caroline………………….. 410-479-1202, ext. 3
Carroll……………………. 410-848-8200, ext. 3
Catoctin………………….. 301-695-2803, ext. 3
Cecil……………………….. 410-398-4411, ext. 3
Charles……………………301-638-3028
Dorchester……………… 410-228-5640, ext. 3
Frederick………………… 301-695-2803, ext. 3
Garrett…………………… 301-501-5856, ext. 3
Harford………………….. 410-638-4828
Howard…………………..410-313-0680
Kent……………………….. 410-778-5150, ext. 3
Montgomery……………301-590-2855
Prince George’s……….. 301-574-5162, ext. 3
Queen Anne’s…………. 410-758-3136, ext. 3
St. Mary’s………………… 301-475-8402, ext. 3
Somerset…………………410-621-9310
Talbot…………………….. 410-822-1577, ext. 5
Washington County… 301-797-6821, ext. 3
Wicomico……………….. 410-546-4777, ext. 3
Worcester……………….. 410-632-5439, ext. 3
