MDA has $2.5 million for innovative manure management ideas

The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) has $2.5 million available to invest in these types of innovative manure management technologies during FY 2014. To do this, MDA has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for demonstration projects from vendors, businesses, and individuals offering technologies, equipment, infrastructure, or services that can improve the management and utilization of manure and other agricultural resources.

Maryland’s nutrient management regulations govern the amount, timing, and placement of crop nutrients—including manure and other organic nutrient sources—on agricultural land to prevent excess nutrients from impacting waterways. To help livestock producers comply with the regulations, Maryland has committed to supporting and investing in alternative uses for manure such as fertilizer manufacturing, composting and manure-to-energy projects that add value to the farm business model.

Vendors, businesses, and individuals are invited to respond to this RFP which may be downloaded from MDA’s website at www.mda.maryland.gov. Proposals should be sent to MDA by 4 p.m. Feb. 28 to: