ANNAPOLIS, MD (August 18, 2026) ~ Residents of rural Maryland can expect to see an increase in low-flying aircraft over the next few weeks as farmers participate in the Maryland Department of Agriculture's (MDA) Cover Crop Program. This program, which runs from now until October 10, 2026, utilizes aerial technology to plant seeds for rye, wheat, and other cover crops in fields across the state.

Cover crops are an essential conservation practice used by producers to protect local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. In Maryland, these crops are planted in the fall to cover bare soil left after main crops are harvested. They not only improve soil health and reduce erosion but also help control runoff by soaking up excess nutrients.

According to Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks, aerial seeding is a fast and effective way to plant fall cover crops into standing corn and soybeans. By planting early, these cover crops have more time to establish before cold weather sets in, allowing them to capture and recycle nutrients left behind by summer crops. As a result, residents in rural areas can expect to see more low-flying aircraft as seeding gets underway.

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Farmers enrolled in MDA's Cover Crop Program receive grants to plant eligible cereal grains and mixes containing legumes or brassicas in the fall. These cover crops provide fields with a protective cover throughout the winter, reducing erosion and nutrient runoff while enhancing soil organic matter for spring planting. Additionally, they help sequester carbon dioxide from the air and protect farm fields from extreme weather conditions.

It is important to note that MDA's Cover Crop Program does not allow pesticides or fertilizers on enrolled acreage. For aerial seeding, small planes and helicopters will take off from local airports serving the area.

Funding for MDA's Cover Crop Program comes from the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund. The program is administered by MDA and the state's 23 soil conservation districts through the Conservation Grants Program. Residents can contact their local soil conservation district for more information on the program.

In conclusion, the use of aerial technology in MDA's Cover Crop Program is a crucial step in protecting Maryland's waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. By planting cover crops, farmers are not only improving soil health but also contributing to the overall health of the environment.

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