Office Closures Regarding Weather:
Calvert SCD follows guidance on office closures based on if the Calvert County Government offices are open. If the Calvert County Government offices are closed due to inclement weather, then so is Calvert SCD. If you are unsure whether the office is open, please call 410-535-1600 and listen to the recording.
UPDATED 9/22/21: CALVERT SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRICT OFFICE IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
- MASK USE IS MANDATORY.
- SOCIAL DISTANCE WHEN POSSIBLE.
- APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED.
- FOR ASSISTANCE, PLEASE CALL 410-535-1521 EXT. 3 OR EMAIL CALVERTSOIL@CALVERTCOUNTYMD.GOV.
About Calvert Soil Conservation District
Mission
Our mission is to promote practical and effective soil, water and related natural resource programs to all citizens in a timely fashion on a voluntary basis through leadership, education and cooperation. We work hard at conserving our natural resources and preserving the quality of life for you and your family. If you are a Calvert County farmer or landowner, become a cooperator with us and work with us to install best conservation practices on your agricultural land to protect our environment. Our knowledgeable staff has access to technical services that can help you install a full array of soil conservation practices that reduce erosion and improve water quality.
Calvert Soil Conservation District publishes an Annual Report. Click below to view the 2020 Annual Report or call to request one be mailed to you!
News & Events
CANCELED — Annual Cooperators’ Dinner
Due to the recent increase of covid infections and the rise of new variants, the 2021 Annual Cooperators’ Dinner, scheduled for Thursday, October 28, 2021, has been postponed until further notice.
Maryland’s Conservation Buffer Initiative
Applications accepted January 10 – February 18, 2022.
Back by popular demand, Maryland’s Conservation Buffer Initiative provides farmers with attractive incentive payments to plant streamside buffers on farms to improve the health of local streams and the Chesapeake Bay.
WHAT’S NEW IN 2022 New this year, farmers can receive up to $4,500 an acre to install riparian forest buffers with pasture fencing. Financial assistance is also available to install deer fencing next to grass buffers. Other features include a buffer option for field ditches, flexible site management, and shorter contract terms.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Three types of buffers are eligible for funding and free technical assistance from local soil conservation districts under this program: forest buffers planted next to waterways, grass buffers planted next to waterways or field ditches, and watercourse access control areas adjacent to pastures. Here’s how the program works:
- Payment rates range from $500/acre for an existing grass buffer to a maximum of $4,500/acre to install a riparian forest buffer with pasture fencing.
- Financial assistance is offered to install deer fencing next to grass buffers.
- Mowing and hay harvesting are allowed; nutrient applications are not.
- Famers receive a one-time payment for enrolled land.
- Contracts are for 5 or 10 years.
- Soil conservation districts provide free technical assistance to get your buffer installed.
- All work must be completed by June 30, 2023
Apply Here: https://mda.maryland.gov/resource_conservation/counties/Buffer_Application.pdf
Jan. 18, 2022 – Southern Maryland Forage Conference
This meeting will provide Private Applicator Recertification & Nutrient Applicator Voucher Recertification. Topics will be presented covering all aspects of hay and pasture production. The programs will address key issues and concerns facing hay and pasture producers. The conferences also feature displays and exhibits by numerous agribusinesses. Attendees will be able to obtain information on seed, fertilizer, equipment, fencing, etc. needed for hay and pasture production and management. Contact the UME office at 301-475-4484 to register.
Feb. 10, 2022 – Southern Maryland Vegetable & Fruit Meeting
Speakers will provide IPM updates and present on a broad range of production topics. Also, at this meeting sponsors will showcase their products and services, and state vegetable organization leaders will be present to recruit and answer your questions. Attendance at this conference will satisfy the requirement for the Private Pesticide Applicator Recertification & Nutrient Applicator Voucher. Registration is required. Participants may be required to wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines. Seating may be limited for on-site participation due to University of Maryland COVID 19 meeting rule compliance. e at 301-475-4484 to register.
Below are some of the services that Calvert Soil Conservation District provides:
Agricultural Programs
Including Conservation Programs, Conservation Practices, Farm Planning, and AgraAbility.
Erosion & Sediment Control
Our Erosion & Sediment Control Specialists are here to assist you with erosion issues on your property.
Equipment Rental
Our Equipment Rental Program allows our cooperators to rent farm equipment at a reasonable rate.