Who must be credentialed by MDA to apply nutrients?

In Maryland, anyone who applies nutrients must be credentialed by the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) to ensure proper and responsible nutrient management practices. This requirement is in place to protect water quality and enhance agricultural sustainability.

All individuals in the various categories—Certified Nutrient Management Consultants, certified farmers or operators, and holders of nutrient applicator vouchers—are required to meet certain educational and regulatory standards set forth by the MDA. Credentialing helps ensure that they have the necessary knowledge and training to apply nutrients properly, minimizing risks of over-application and potential environmental harm, such as nutrient runoff into waterways.

The certification process typically includes understanding nutrient management plans, recognizing the environmental impacts of nutrient applications, and following best practices for land stewardship. This coordinated approach promotes responsible nutrient management across different types of agricultural operations and ensures that all nutrient applicators are operating under the same guidelines to maintain environmental integrity and agricultural productivity.