Nutrient Management Farmer Training & Certification
Maryland’s nutrient management requirements
The Water Quality Improvement Act of 1998 (WQIA) requires all farmers grossing $2,500 a year or more or livestock producers with 8,000 pounds or more of live animal weight to run their operations using a nutrient management plan that addresses nitrogen and phosphorus inputs. The rules apply to all agricultural land that produces plants, food, feed, fiber, animals, or other agricultural products.
Farmers are required to submit copies of their initial nutrient management plans to the Nutrient Management Program, update plans before they expire, take new soil samples a minimum of once every three years, obtain manure analyses (if using manure) at least every other year, and submit Annual Implementation Reports (AIRs) by March 1 documenting how they implemented their plans during the previous year.
Farmer certification and training
Farmers understand their own operations and needs better than anyone. As a farmer or producer, it makes sense for you to become certified by the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) to write your own nutrient management plan—a process that takes just two days. MDA, in partnership with University of Maryland Extension (UME), has developed a series of specialized Farmer Training and Certification (FTC) workshops for farmers and producers who want to become certified to develop their own nutrient management plans and get the most from this important management tool.
There are many benefits to becoming certified. The FTC Program makes it easier to comply with Maryland’s nutrient management requirements. As an added bonus, the training provides valuable insight into the latest research findings and management techniques to help you improve production, increase yields, and maximize nutrient efficiency.
How it works
Farmers attend a two-day workshop. On the first day, you will learn the fundamentals of nutrient management and work through a model plan. Take-home study materials and reference guides help prepare you for the nutrient management certification exam.
On the second day—usually scheduled within four weeks of the initial training session—you will take an open book certification exam. After passing the exam, you will work with an MDA nutrient management specialist or Extension advisor to develop a nutrient management plan for your operation.
Once you pass the exam and complete your nutrient management plan, MDA will certify you. To remain eligible to update and revise your plan, you must attend six hours of continuing education classes once every three years. Importantly, certified farmers are not required to attend nutrient applicator voucher training that’s required for farmers who apply nutrients to 10 or more acres of cropland.
Getting started
Training classes are listed on MDA’s website at bit.ly/NMP_Training. Register for the class that most closely describes your operation. To develop a nutrient management plan for your operation, bring the following information to the workshop:
- Farm map or sketch of the operation
- Soil test results that are less than two years old
- Recent manure analysis (if manure is applied to the land)
Certification fee
A $20 fee is required to take the exam. There is an additional charge for course/study materials. However, you will not be charged to retake the exam or renew your certification. Directions and an agenda will be sent with confirmation letters to all registrants.
Choose the workshop that’s right for you
Farmer Training and Certification classes geared toward specific types of operations are offered regionally throughout the state. These include:
- Pasture-Based Operations
- Crop Operations Using Fertilizer and Manure
- Crop Operations Using Commercial Fertilizer Only
- Poultry Operations with Cropland
- Poultry Operations with No Cropland
- Nursery and Greenhouse Operations