Revolutionizing Nutrient Management: Maryland's New Food Processing Residuals Regulations

In a groundbreaking move, the Maryland Department of Agriculture has announced the implementation of emergency regulations to establish a comprehensive permit program for the management of food processing residuals (FPRs). This new legislation, which took effect on July 1, 2024, aims to ensure the responsible and sustainable utilization of this valuable nutrient source while safeguarding the state's air and water quality.

Unlocking the Potential of Food Waste: Maryland's Innovative Approach to Nutrient Management

Empowering Farmers, Protecting the Environment

The new regulations empower Maryland farmers to harness the benefits of FPRs as a nutrient source, while implementing robust safeguards to mitigate environmental concerns. By requiring permits for the transport, storage, and land application of FPRs, the state aims to strike a balance between the practical needs of agriculture and the imperative to preserve the integrity of Maryland's natural resources.The permit program, approved by the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review (AELR), represents a collaborative effort between the Maryland Department of Agriculture and stakeholders to address citizen concerns while maintaining the viability of FPR utilization. This innovative approach ensures that FPRs are managed in accordance with the state's nutrient management regulations, promoting sustainable practices and protecting air and water quality.

Navigating the New Regulatory Landscape: What Farmers Need to Know

For Maryland farmers who rely on FPRs as a nutrient source, the new regulations introduce a comprehensive permitting process. A separate permit is required for each activity – transport, storage, and land application – and permit holders must post a bond to ensure compliance.The application process is structured to provide timely approvals, with transport and storage permits to be issued by January 1 for applications received by November 15. Farmers who have submitted their applications by the November 15 deadline may continue to transport or store FPRs until the permit determination has been made.For land application of FPRs, applications are due to the department by January 15, with permits to be issued by March 1, aligning with the resumption of land application activities. Nutrient management staff will conduct site and field inspections to ensure that all FPR applications adhere to Maryland's nutrient management regulations.

Embracing the Future of Sustainable Agriculture

The new regulations build upon Maryland's previous efforts to address the management of FPRs. In 2023, the state joined a growing number of jurisdictions that require direct injection or same-day deep incorporation of FPRs on all cropland, except for hay fields. This move aimed to mitigate potential environmental concerns, and the latest regulations further strengthen the state's commitment to responsible nutrient management.By establishing a comprehensive permit program, Maryland is leading the way in the sustainable utilization of food processing residuals. This innovative approach not only benefits farmers by providing access to a valuable nutrient source but also safeguards the state's air and water quality, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for Maryland's agricultural landscape.For more information on the new FPR regulations and to obtain the necessary permits, farmers and industry stakeholders are encouraged to visit the Maryland Department of Agriculture's website or contact the Nutrient Management Program administrator, Dwight Dotterer, at [email protected] or 410-841-5877.