The purpose of this project is to develop and use a statewide data management system to assist MDA with evaluation and targeting of agricultural NPS pollution control programs. The agricultural NPS data management system is designed as a component of the statewide tributary strategy tracking and evaluation of NPS programs statewide as presently administered through DNR and also is utilized by cooperating agencies such as Maryland Office of Planning to analyze NPS implementation plans. The agricultural data management system consists of the collection and centralization of information on implementation of agricultural NPS control programs by various public and private sources delivering technical support services to the agricultural community. It has been used by the state and local agricultural tributary teams to evaluate and develop options for agricultural NPS implementation to reach nutrient reduction goals set forth under the Tributary Strategies. This tracking system includes the number and associated acres of soil conservation and water quality plans, BMPs installed, acreage treated, soil saved and manure managed.
Tracking is done by county and by watershed.
It will ensure capability at the soil conservation field office level for implementing identified tracking requirements.