- Farm
- Statewide
Summary
The Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share (MACS) Program is a government-sponsored initiative aimed at providing farmers with technical and financial assistance to implement various conservation practices on their farms that protect water quality. The program is available in several states and supports various practices in conservation planning, including cropland, pastureland, hay land, and forested land. The practices are paid for at a flat rate or straight per-acre rate, or cost-shared on a percentage basis of up to 100 percent. The program is voluntary and designed to improve water quality through the installation of various best management practices on agricultural lands, such as nutrient management, erosion control, and pesticide management. It is a part of a larger effort to address non-point source pollution and safeguard water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.
Eligibility Requirements
- The applicant(s) must be a farmer who owns or operates an agricultural operation in Maryland.The agricultural operation must be located within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
- The applicant(s) must agree to maintain and operate the BMPs for at least 10 years.
- The applicant(s) must obtain any necessary permits and approvals for the BMPs.
- The BMPs must be consistent with the current nutrient management plan for the farm.
- The BMPs must meet the specifications and standards established by the Maryland Department of Agriculture.
- The applicant(s) must agree to provide access to the farm for monitoring and evaluation of the BMPs.
- Additional requirements and eligibility criteria may apply depending on the specific BMPs being implemented. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Best Management Practices Program at the Maryland Department of Agriculture for more information on eligibility requirements and the application process.
Contact Information
Maryland Department of Agriculture
Best Management Practices Program
50 Harry S Truman Parkway
Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: 410-841-5700