Worcester County is located on the easternmost portion of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. In addition to the popular resort and wildlife areas, the jurisdiction holds value in its agricultural resources.
Worcester Soil Conservation District, established in 1942, assists landowners and farmers in developing Conservation Plans to protect natural resources & farm profitability. With the increase of urban development the District reviews erosion and sediment control plans for construction projects within the County. Worcester SCD also strives to educate the local community on the importance of soil health and water quality within the Chesapeake Bay & Atlantic Coastal Bays.
A Best Management Practice (BMP) is a physical, chemical, structural or managerial practice that prevents, reduces or treats contamination of water or which prevents or reduces soil erosion. Erosion prevention BMPs can be the simplest and most effective measures taken to retain sediments on a site.
A Conservation Plan, also known as a SCWQP, notes the current farm operation and/or land use. It incorporates customized tools and resources such as a land use map, soils map and soil descriptions, practice schedule, environmental review, and engineering records— all based on the producer’s goals and site needs, to fit individual circumstances and timelines.
Sediment and erosion control practices are used to manage stormwater runoff and minimize its potential for pollution. Sediment transported by poorly-managed stormwater can negatively impact water quality by blocking sunlight, inhibiting plant growth, and carrying excess nutrients.
The Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share (MACS) Program provides farmers with grants to cover 87.5% – 100% of the pre-determined flat rate to install best management practices on farms to prevent soil erosion, manage nutrients and safeguard soil and water quality.
Fall-planted cover crops provide many benefits. Cover crops add organic matter to soil, control weeds and pests, and protect local waterways from sediment and
nutrient runoff during Winter. Grants are available to help pay for the cost to plant fall cover crops.
For over a century we have been helping landowners and farmers manage water and soil resources. Contact us and see what programs and services are available to assist you.
By the Numbers in 2025
Cumulative Total Covered by a Valid Conservation Plan: 30,735 acres
We prioritize soil health, water quality, and farm profitability in every project, every year.
9,155
Acres gained from 63 SCWQP’s Completed in 2025.
541
Acres covered with 269 Sediment and Erosion Control Plans.
24,873
Acres of Cover Crops planted by 56 farmers.