Agriculture and Natural Resources

Upcoming events:

Spring 2012 Farm News

For information on Nutrient Voucher Training and Pesticide Recertification Training or a New Beginning Farmer Workshop Series and much more, check out the Spring Farm News.

Classes Being Offered:

Beginning Farmer Workshop Series

April-May

Agenda

Series include: Overview of sources for farm supplies, equipment and services for the farm community.

Soil Conservation
University of Maryland-Ben Beale
Agricultural Land Preservation
Farm Service Agency Programs
Southern MD AG Commission
Colonial Farm Credit
Farm Bureau
Local Farmers Markets

Optional Add-On Activities:

Tour of Loveville Produce Auction

Small Fruit Learning Day at Upper Marlboro Research Faciltiy.

To register call (301) 475-4484.

Charles County Master Gardeners' Annual Plant Sale

Saturday, May 5, 2012 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Two locations:

La Plata Farmers' Market at the Courthouse Parking Lot (Talbot Street at Charles St. and Washington AVenue)
P.D. Brown Memorial Libraray parking lot next to Smallwood Village Center at 50 Village Street, Waldorf

Sale features outstanding plants potted with care by Master Gardener volunteers. Heirloom varieties, native plants, perennials, vegetables and herbs.

Gardeners will be available for plant education and salad boxes will be available for sale. Proceeds used to support Charles County Master Gardener educational outreach projects.

For additional information (301) 934-5403 or (301) 753-8195.

Food Preservation Class

May 19, 2011 at 9:00-Noon

The University of Maryland Extension Office in Charles County is offering a hands-on food preservation class to teach basic USDA approved canning techniques for high acid foods such as tomatoes, fruits and jams and jellies. Participants wil learn up-to-date techniques and safety procedures for preserving their bounty.

Cost is $35. and includes a copy of So Easy to Preserve, handouts and materials for a hands-on canning activity. Checks should be made payable to MCEAC and mailed to UME-Charles; Attn: Food Preservation; 9375 Chesapeake St. #119; La Plata, MD 20646

Space is limited and pre-registration is required.

Call (301) 934-5403 or (301) 753-8195

Agricultural Professionals

Research-based information is provided through educational programs, seminars, fact sheets, meetings, and newsletters. Specific topics include: Field and horticultural crop and livestock production, management, marketing, and farm management. Fertilization - including nutrient management planning, pest management and safe pesticide use; Conservation, protection and enhancement of water, soil and other natural resources.

Homeowners and Gardeners

Free or low-cost publications are available on home food production, lawn care, ornamentals, wells and septic systems as well as other topics. Publications are available on our Home & Garden website at www.hgic.umd.edu

University of Maryland's soil testing lab was closed in 2003 but you can still find information on soil testing on our Home and Garden Information site. Individual phone consultation is also available 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday - Friday through the Home and Garden Information Center 1-800-342-2507.

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For more information, contact Marcia Wakefield; 301-934-5403

Last updated: 04/26/2012