Nutrient Management

The Maryland Animal Waste Assessment and Strategy Plan was created to guide future Animal Waste Technology Fund (AWTF) awards administered by the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA). The stated goal of the AWTF is “to encourage the development and implementation of economically feasible technologies that help protect public health and the environment by reducing the amount of nutrients from animal waste to enable farmers to meet nutrient management requirements and provide alternative animal waste management strategies to farmers.” This Assessment and Strategy Plan researched and evaluated animal waste and nutrients in animal waste generated in Maryland (by county). The feasibility of animal waste technologies used in Maryland were evaluated, including anaerobic digestion, gasification, pyrolysis, composting, and manure injection. Policy implications, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and economic analyses were documented for animal waste technologies. Interviews, surveys, and focus groups were conducted to gauge understanding and acceptance of the technologies, expected future changes in manure management, and the effect of waste management technologies on surrounding communities through an environmental justice perspective. 

Nutrient Management Annual Implementation Report (AIR) for CAFO and MAFO Operations documenting nutrient applications for calendar year 2023 are due to the Nutrient Management Program by March 1, 2024

One of these winter activities will be reviewing and updating your nutrient management plan.

A resource page for farmers to find quick links for nutrient management assistance.

Commercial Poultry Newsletter - Jan. 2021: Farm Manager is Not a Joint Employee of Poultry Farm; Extension Resources; DCA's New App 'Littr.' to Connect Litter Customers/Suppliers; CAFO Update; 7 Fundamentals for Antibiotic-Free Poultry Growing

Quick links to resources for certified Nutrient Management Consultants

When everyone sent in their NOI (notice of intent) and your CAFO Fee, you also submitted your CNMP (Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan) and your NMP (nutrient management plan). We (growers) were advised that if nothing changed in your operation, then your CNMP would stay the same. Your NMP, how much litter you will generate over the next 3 years should be updated, and additional information requested such as water shed etc. was filled out and submitted.

History of Nutrient Management Planning in Maryland