For Immediate Release
Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board
123 Clay Drive, Queenstown, MD 21658
443-262-8491
Grain Fields and Phosphorus
Queenstown, Maryland (March 27, 2020) – As of January 2020, the Phosphorus Management Tool (PMT) has moved into the next transition phase across Maryland. The decision not to delay the next phase was voted on by the PMT Advisory Committee and upheld by Secretary Bartenfelder. 

Due to the Total Maximum Daily Load restrictions, reductions of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Sediment must be achieved. Maryland farmers have done well with reaching each milestone, particularly with phosphorus. Farmers follow their state mandated Nutrient Management Plan which is completed by a certified professional.
Manure is a slow-release, organic fertilizer that our grain farmers use to feed their crops. The Department of Agriculture has new funding and initiatives for farmers looking to utilize manure on their operation by helping to transport it to their farms. If you’re looking to buy or sell manure, you can call the Manure Matching Hotline at 410-841-5864. Please be patient with state employees during the COVID-19 outbreak. 
The Maryland Grain Producers shares this infographic with the public and our farmers to understand the current steps being taken. High risk fields are no longer allowed to receive phosphorus, with a few exceptions. For other fields, manure may be applied at the crop removal rate stated in the infographic.

According to the Department of Agriculture, through compiled soil phosphorus data of regulated farmland, data indicates that most farm fields are not at risk for phosphorus loss and may still benefit from manure as a crop fertilizer. 
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The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board was established in 1991 to administer the Maryland Grain Checkoff Program. Grain Producers in Maryland voted to institute this voluntary checkoff program, which is funded by participating growers donating 0.5% of each Maryland bushel sold. With this funding the board can fulfill its mission to increase the profitability of Maryland grain production and to improve public understanding of agriculture through promotion, education, and research. 

Press Release respectively submitted by Jenell Eck , Programs and Public Relations Director
Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board | 123 Clay Drive | Queenstown, MD 21658