Agriculture for St. Mary's Soil Conservation District

Cost Share

There are many different State and Federal cost share assistance programs available to help farmers install best management practices (BMPs) to improve water quality on their farms. All of these cost share programs will require District assistance to determine eligibility, complete and submit applications, and to provide the technical assistance to install the BMPs and certify completion. Below is a partial list of eligible cost share programs available in St. Mary’s County. For more information please contact a District representative.

State Cost Share

MACS - Maryland Agricultural Cost Share Program

CREP - Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program

MTP - Manure Transport Program

NMP - Nutrient Management Program

LILAC - Low Interest Loans for Agricultural Conservation

Federal Cost Share

EQIP - Environmental Quality Incentive Program

WHIP - Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program

FRPP - Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program

CRP - Conservation Reserve Program

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Conservation Planning

Soil Conservation and Water Quality (SCWQ) Plans or Conservation Plans can be a valuable tool for farmers to manage resources and improve profitability. A conservation plan is a working document designed to fit each individual farmer's needs while protecting and conserving their soil
and water resources.

A conservation plan folder contains:

1. Aerial photo of the farm which includes property boundaries, topography, current and proposed BMPs, and possibly other resource items;

2. A written record of the landowners decisions regarding cropping sequences, residue management, and nutrient management, with a plan for implementation and;

3. A map showing soil types and boundaries along with descriptions and capability classes showing suitability for cropland, forestland, and wildlife habitat.

Conservation plans are not mandatory unless all or part of the farm falls within the
Chesapeake Bay Critical Area, you are applying for or currently participate in an agricultural land preservation program, or participate in any state or Federal cost share programs.

If you are interested in developing a conservation plan for your farm, please contact one of the conservation planners to set up an on-farm visit. The planner will need to walk the farm and take notes on current farming practices and any resource issues.

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Technical Assistance

The St. Mary’s Soil Conservation District provides technical assistance to agricultural producers and private landowners regarding the implementation of best management practices (BMPs) to reduce erosion and minimize sediment and nutrient runoff. Assistance will vary from farm to farm, but may include survey, design, and construction inspection for structural BMPs such as waterways, diversions, and agricultural waste storage structures.

To set up a site visit or to obtain more information about what services the District provides,
contact Mike Russell.

Operation & Maintenance Guidelines for Farm Ponds

Construction Contractors List

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