The Water Quality Improvement Act of 1998 required all farmers grossing $2,500 a year or more, or livestock producers with 8,000 pounds or more of live animal weight, to have a nutrient management plan that addresses both nitrogen and phosphorus inputs. The requirement applies to all agricultural land used to produce plants, food, feed, fiber, animals or other agricultural products. If you fall into this category you are required to keep your nutrient management plan current and submit a nutrient management annual implementation report to the Maryland Department of Agriculture.
Nutrient management planning assistance is available through the University of Maryland Extension.