Agricultural Update
University of Maryland Extension - Allegany County
Do you have waterways, streambanks, or floodplain areas that suffer from erosion, or could use a little upkeep? Come see us to talk more about the 2025-2026 Conservation Buffer Initiative Program! Learn more here: https://mda.maryland.gov/.../conservation-buffer...
The Maryland Department of Agriculture is reminding farmers that the winter ban on spreading manure, food processing residuals (FPRs), and other nutrient sources on cropland begins on December 16, 2025. Farmers can resume spreading these materials on March 1, 2026, as long as they follow their nutrient management plan recommendations and ensure that fields are not saturated, snow-covered, or hard-frozen. Click the photo or title for the full press release from MDA.
Private Applicator Pesticide RECERTIFICATION Available In Person and Online
In Person Class: A class will be held on December 15 at the Garrett County Extension Office in Oakland from 6-8 p.m. You can register by calling the office at 301-334-6960.
Online Self-Paced Pesticide Private Applicator Recertification can be found at this web address: https://umeagfs.teachable.com/p/private-pesticide-applicator-recertification and you can find other locations offering training/testing at this web address: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/pesticide-certifications/#Training. Please reach out to your local extension office if you need assistance.
Private Applicator Pesticide EXAM Review/Test Prep:
The Garrett Office of University of Maryland Extension will be hold a private applicator test review on January 26th from 6-9pm at the Oakland office. The review will cover the information that is on the MDA Private Applicator Exam. Individuals that wish to have a private applicator license will also need to take the exam with MDA. The exam can be taken in person or online. A date will be set later in the winter for the exam to be taken live in Garrett County and information will be provided on how to take the exam on-line. The private applicator license is required for farmers who apply restricted-use pesticides on property that they farm. The license does not cover spraying for hire for other farmers or businesses. The training session is free. Materials are available in print (for a fee) and online. Register by calling 301-334-6960.
You can find a list of more exam prep, exams, and recertification classes here: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/pesticide-certifications/#Training
Annie was a woman who grew up in a small town in Northern Illinois. Her goal was to marry a farmer and she did. Annie spent her lifetime learning how to be an involved business partner with her farm husband. Together they did great things, but it wasn’t easy. This is Annie’s Project – to take her experiences and share it with women involved in agriculture.
Objectives
Annie’s project is designed to empower women in agriculture to manage information and learn about agriculture in a relaxed local network. The target audience is women with a passion for agriculture. Annie's Project is a six-week online experience designed especially for women to help them develop their management and decision-making skills. Annie’s Project will help develop an understanding, interpretation, and opportunities in agriculture
In-Person Option: Mid-Shore Maryland
UME-Queen Anne's County, 505 Railroad Avenue, Suite 4, Centreville, MD 21617
Wednesdays, February 18 - March , 2026 (NO CLASS Feb 25), from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Virtual Option: Location: Online (through Zoom)
Wednesdays, February 18 - March , 2026 (NO CLASS Feb 25), from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
To register, visit https://2026anniesproject.eventbrite.com. For more information on the curriculum and program logistics, please contact Shannon Dill at sdill@umd.edu or Jenny Rhodes jrhodes@umd.edu or visit the website at https://go.umd.edu/anniesproject
New Year, New NM Plan:
Do you have a plan that has expired or will expire soon? Are you new to farming and unsure whether you need one? We’re here to help make the process simple, supportive, and stress-free.
Who Needs a Nutrient Management Plan?
Maryland farmers who gross $2,500 or more annually, or who have 8,000 lbs. or more of livestock, are required to maintain a current nutrient management plan. A current plan must be in place before any fertilizer or organic nutrients are applied to your fields.
How do I request a plan?
If you need a nutrient management plan or an update, contact the AC Extension Office at (301) 724-3320 or emailing blemay@umd.edu. Plans for 2026 are now being written across the county and state, so this is a great time to get started.
Important Reminders:
- The winter ban on spreading manure, FPRs, and other nutrients begins 12/16 and is in effect until March 1, 2026.
- Plans are prepared once all required information and lab results are received, so providing everything promptly helps us serve you efficiently.
UME newsletters offer informative, research-based information that the reader can put into practice. Informative articles include crop production, disease information, animal science, and upcoming programs. Take a closer look at the newsletters listed below.
The Agronomy News is a statewide newsletter for farmers, consultants, researchers, and educators interested in grain and row crop forage production systems. This newsletter is published once a month during the growing season and will include topics pertinent to agronomic crop production. Subscribers will receive an email with the latest edition. Agronomy News
The Fruit & Vegetable News is a timely publication for the commercial vegetable and fruit industry that is available electronically from April through October. Published by the University of Maryland Extension Agriculture and Food Systems team. Fruit & Vegetable News
The University of Maryland Forage Extension Program offers a wealth of resources and educational opportunities designed to support those involved in forage production and management. By signing up for monthly updates, you can stay informed about upcoming programming, workshops, and events that can enhance your knowledge and skills in this field. Additionally, you'll gain access to a variety of useful resources, including research findings, best practices, and expert advice tailored to the needs of forage producers. To ensure you don't miss out on these valuable insights and opportunities, visit the provided link to subscribe and receive the latest information directly in your inbox. Sign up at this link to start receiving these resources.