~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Department of Agriculture has announced that the sign-up period for its Small Acreage Cover Crop Program is now open. From March 16 to April 24, 2026, small farms and urban growers in Maryland can apply for grants to help them plant cover crops on their production areas.

The program aims to support these producers in building healthy soils, improving crop yields, protecting local water quality, and promoting climate resilience. It also provides other environmental benefits that contribute to the overall well-being of communities.

This program specifically targets urban and small-scale producers who do not qualify for the traditional cover crop program. Those who plant less than ten acres of qualifying cover crops, such as cereal grains or cover crop seed mixes, are encouraged to apply for grants. The financial assistance for this program is capped at $1,500 per grower per year.

Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks emphasized the importance of locally grown food and its benefits for both the environment and community health. He stated, "Our small-scale and urban farmers recognize the value of cover crops for enhancing soil health." He also expressed excitement about offering cover crop grants to these vital producers for the third year in a row.

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Interested growers can download grant applications from MDA's website. The deadline for submission is April 24, 2026. Some key highlights of the program include a maximum payment of $1,500 per grower per year and reimbursement for seed costs (including shipping), labor (capped at $15 per hour), custom services, and equipment rental fees.

Cover crops can be planted in open plots/fields, raised beds, or high tunnels. Growers are advised to follow planting recommendations from either the seed manufacturer or the University of Maryland Extension for eligible species.

Funding for the Small Acreage Cover Crop Program comes from the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund and is managed by the department's Small Farm and Urban Agriculture Program. Those interested in applying for these grants can contact Bill Tharpe, Program Administrator for the Small Farm & Urban Agriculture Program at 410-841-5869. More information can also be found on the department's website.

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