This chapter describes the: Content requirements for a nutrient management plan; Requirements for plan recommendations by a certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator; and Requirements for the implementation of a nutrient management plan by a person who manages an agricultural operation. A nutrient management plan prepared for an agricultural operation indicates how primary nutrients are to be managed annually on farm fields for plant and crop production and for the protection of water quality. Plans contain recommendations to the agricultural operator based on expected crop yield or plant production goals, existing nutrient levels in the soil, organic residuals, optimum timing and placement of nutrients, environmental protection, and normal agricultural practices, such as liming, tillage, and crop rotation. The Department certifies and licenses qualified individuals to prepare plans under COMAR 15.20.04 and requires agricultural operations to implement the plans under COMAR 15.20.07. This chapter addresses nutrient management plans and recommendations for agricultural operations, including container or out-of-ground agricultural operations. This chapter also describes the transition from the Phosphorus Site Index to the Phosphorus Management Tool as a means to identify potential risk of phosphorus loss from farms. Like the Phosphorus Site Index, the Phosphorus Management Tool will be employed when a soil sample analysis shows a phosphorus fertility index value (“P FIV”) of 150 or greater. Unless the transition schedule is adjusted as provided in this chapter, the Phosphorus Management Tool will be phased-in over a 7-year period as shown in the chart found in Regulation .10 of this chapter. Farms that have excess soil phosphorus will be placed in one of three tiers, as determined by the particular operation’s average phosphorus fertility index value. Farms with an average P FIV of 450 and greater will be the first operations required to begin implementing the Phosphorus Management Tool, but will be given a longer time-frame to fully implement it. Farms with an average P FIV of(1) 150 and greater, but less than 300, and (2) 300 and greater, but less than 450, will be required to begin implementing the Phosphorus Management Tool later but will be given less time to complete this transition. The performance and technical standards provided in this subtitle are found in the Department of Agriculture's Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, which is incorporated by reference in COMAR 15.20.07.02. In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated. Terms Defined. “Account identification number” means the unique identifier used by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation to identify a unit of land. “Agricultural operation” means a business or activity that: Tills, crops, keeps, pastures, or produces an agricultural product, including livestock, poultry, plants, trees, sod, food, feed, or fiber by in-ground, out-of-ground, container, or other culture; and Has a gross annual income of $2,500 or more, or has eight or more animal units. “Animal unit” means the unit of measure equivalent to 1,000 pounds of live animal weight. “Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value” or “Average Soil P FIV” means a value: Determined for an agricultural operation by averaging the P FIV of all fields or management units within the operation that have a P FIV greater than 150 (calculated by adding together the P FIV of each field or management unit within the operation that has a P FIV greater than 150 and dividing this sum by number of any such fields or management units); and Established not later than June 30, 2016, using soil tests not more than 3 years old. “Best management practice” means a conservation or pollution control practice that manages soil, nutrient losses, or other potential pollutant sources to: Minimize nutrient runoff or pollution of water resources; or Improve agricultural production and management. “Bioavailable” means a nutrient supply that is either currently, or likely to be, available to a plant or crop. “Biosolids” means any thickened liquid, suspended or settled solid, or dried residue extracted from sewage at a sewage treatment plant, including domestic sewage, that: Contains recognized plant nutrients or liquid byproducts that meet federal and State regulations for beneficial use by land application or other methods; and Is regulated as sewage sludge, pursuant to Environment Article, §9-201 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland. “Certified farm operator” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan solely for agricultural land that the individual: Owns; Operates; or Has a legal interest in. “Certified nutrient management consultant” or “consultant” means an individual certified by the Department under this subtitle to prepare a nutrient management plan. Chemical Fertilizer. “Chemical fertilizer” means a manufactured or blended nutrient source, usually in granular or liquid form, containing a guaranteed analysis of primary nutrients. “Chemical fertilizer” does not include a product blended from all natural organic fertilizer sources. “Controlled release fertilizer” means a type of fertilizer that releases nutrients over time and which may be categorized as follows: Natural organics; Organic, synthetic isobutylidene diurea and urea fomaldehyde; Sulfur-coated synthetic organic or inorganic fertilizers; and Inorganic, resin-coated fertilizers. “Cover crop” means a crop including, but not limited to, cereal grains, that is planted following the harvest of summer crops for the purpose of: Seasonal protection of soil; Assimilation of residual nitrogen left from a previous crop; and Continued mineralization of nitrogen. “Crop or plant nutrient needs” means the primary nutrient requirements of a crop, usually determined as pounds of total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O), required for production of a crop yield unit, such as a bushel of corn. “Department” means Maryland Department of Agriculture. “Environmental risk assessment for out-of-ground production” means a method used to evaluate risk from stormwater and runoff management and water application (irrigation) methods that is acceptable to the Department, as described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-D. “Expected crop yield” means a realistic crop yield for the agricultural operation determined by yield records or soil productivity information. “Fertility index value (FIV)” means an index developed by the University of Maryland that is: Used to describe the relative availability of nutrients to a plant or crop; and Described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-B. “Fertilizer” means a substance containing a recognized primary plant nutrient used for its plant nutrient content and designed for use in promoting plant growth. “Field identification number” means a number or unique identifier used by an agricultural operator to distinguish or pinpoint the location of a field or management unit on a farm. “Liming” means the application of materials containing the carbonates, oxides, or hydroxides of calcium or magnesium in a condition, and in a quantity, adequate to manage soil acidity. “Management unit” means an area sharing common characteristics, including soil type, nutrient content, and plant type or crop produced, so that nutrients can be recommended and managed in a uniform and consistent manner. “Manure management” means operations and conditions specific to an agricultural operation that has animals, or uses animal manure or waste nutrients from animal production. The purpose of manure management in nutrient management planning is to improve efficiency and effectiveness of nutrient utilization and to minimize the potential for nutrient loss from the management of animals or their manure and associated waste nutrients. Guidelines for manure management are described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section III-C. “Mineralization” means the process that converts unavailable organic forms of nutrient elements to an available inorganic state as a result of bacterial decomposition. “Natural organic fertilizer” means a fertilizer derived from plant or animal products, including animal manure, biosolids, green manure, compost, or plant materials, or other residuals used as a source of primary nutrients, which: Typically are not mixed with synthetic materials; or Are not changed in any physical or chemical manner from their initial state, except by means of cooking, chopping, composting, drying, grinding, shredding, or pelleting. “Nutrient application rate” means the quantity of primary nutrients, including total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O), recommended by a certified consultant to: Supply crop or plant nutrient needs; and Achieve realistic yield or plant production goals, as defined by this chapter. “Nutrient content” means the percentage of any primary nutrients as total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O) in any type or source of fertilizer. “Nutrient management plan” means a plan prepared by a certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator to manage the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal manure, fertilizer, biosolids, or other plant nutrients to minimize nutrient loss or runoff and to maintain the productivity of soil when growing agricultural products. “Operator” means a person who owns or manages an agricultural operation. “Out-of-ground or container production” means the production of plants whose roots are not actually growing in the soil column. “Person” means the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any other entity, unless otherwise provided. “Phosphorus Management Tool” means the new procedure developed by the University of Maryland, approved by the Department, and described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C, that: Uses characteristics of soils, landforms, and management practices to identify potential risk of phosphorus losses from soils to waters; and Shall be phased-in between 2016 and not later than 2024, ultimately replacing the Phosphorus Site Index. “Phosphorus Site Index” means the original procedure developed by the University of Maryland, approved by the Department, and described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C, that uses characteristics of soils, landforms, and management practices to identify potential risk of phosphorus losses from soils to waters. “Phosphorus Transition Management Phase I” means the first of two management phases that farms with a soil P FIV of 150 or greater shall employ when transitioning from use of the Phosphorus Site Index to the Phosphorus Management Tool as a means to determine the application of additional phosphorus that: Consists of three risk categories determined by a calculation of the Phosphorus Management Tool; and Includes a schedule for implementation based on the average soil P FIV for the operation. “Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II” means the second of two management phases that farms with a soil P FIV of 150 or greater shall employ when transitioning from the use of the Phosphorus Site Index to the Phosphorus Management Tool as a means to determine the application of additional phosphorus that: Consists of three risk categories determined by a calculation of the Phosphorus Management Tool; and Includes a schedule for implementation based on the average soil P FIV for the operation. “Plant production goal” means a statement of the estimated length of time that plants will be grown, and appropriate measure of expected plant size, such as height or diameter. “Primary nutrients” means a plant food that is essential for normal plant growth, and includes total nitrogen (N), available phosphate (P2O5), or soluble potash (K2O). “Residual nutrients” means the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium available in the soil from previous nutrient sources or unharvested plants or plant parts, or the baseline nutrient levels in the soil. “Soil leaching potential” means the potential for a given soil to be subject to nitrate and soluble chemical leaching below the root zone. “Soil pH level” means the relative acidity or alkalinity of a soil and refers to the hydrogen ion concentration in the soil solution. “Substrate” means organic or inorganic material, often bark, peat, and sand, used as media components in a container to support the plant and contain the root system. “Tier A operations” means those farms that have an average soil P FIV of 150 or greater but less than 300. “Tier B operations” means those farms that have an average soil P FIV of 300 or greater but less than 450. “Tier C operations” means those farms that have an average soil P FIV of 450 or greater. “Volatilization” means a process in which nitrogen losses to the atmosphere occur as ammonia. “Watershed code” means the code used by the State to identify a hydrologic unit area. Waters. “Waters” means surface water or ground water, including: That part of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundaries of the State; The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries; and All ponds, streams, natural wetlands, and drainage ditches or public drainage systems. “Waters” do not include irrigation and treatment ditches installed to hold, transform, treat, or transfer water or wastewater, if a separation is maintained between the ditches and waters, as defined in §B(38)(a) of this regulation, at all times. A certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator shall prepare, and an operator shall have and implement, a nutrient management plan that conforms to the requirements in §§B—G of this regulation. Plan Identification. A plan shall contain: The operator name and address; The account identification number or numbers for all tax maps and parcels contained in the plan; A county and watershed code of all land under a nutrient management plan; The date the plan was prepared or updated; The period of time the plan covers; The name, certification, and license number of the certified nutrient management consultant responsible for the plan development; and The name and certification number of the certified farm operator responsible for the plan development. Map or Aerial Photograph. A plan shall contain one or more maps, such as soil survey maps or aerial photographs, that identify: The location and boundaries of the agricultural operation; The individual field boundaries or management units; A field or management unit number or identifier; and Acreage of each field or management unit. The map or aerial photograph of the features described in §C(1) of this regulation shall be clearly recognizable. An agricultural operation sketch or soil survey map may be used when a map or aerial photograph is not available, if the features described in §C(1) of this regulation are clearly recognizable. Plan Elements. A plan shall contain the following, when applicable: All nutrient recommendations for the period the plan is effective, including crop rotations or recommendations for alternative cropping plans, if applicable, within specific field or management unit information, described under §E of this regulation; The type and average number of animals annually raised, maintained, or housed on the agricultural operation; The quantities of animal manure or waste produced and available from animal housing or waste storage structures during the period the plan covers; The total animal manure used as crop nutrients, including manure from on-farm and off-farm sources, and its nutrient analysis; The quantity of animal manure or waste and location of alternative use, including land application off-site, processing, composting, or other uses of unused animal manure or waste; The source and type of information used to determine expected crop yield or plant production goal; Any recommendation to change management, install additional best management practices, or implement alternative technologies to reduce risk potential for nutrient movement; Any recommendation to ensure efficient application of fertilizers; and Any determination of the limiting nutrient as required under Regulation .04 of this chapter, including use of a risk analysis tool indicating the potential for nutrients to move into surface water or ground water, based on current conditions. Field or Management Unit Specific Information. A plan shall contain data for each field or area where nutrients will be applied and shall include: The date the recommendations are prepared or updated; An account identification number; The watershed location code; The field or management unit number or identifier and acreage; A soil analysis; The expected crop or plant and expected crop yield or plant production goal for the period covered by the plan; Any crop rotation or recommendation for alternative cropping plans, if applicable, to: Provide the operator greater flexibility, and Minimize the need for a plan update; The primary nutrient requirements based on expected crop yield or plant production goals; Any available nutrients in the soil from the previous crop and mineralization and bioavailability assumptions for organic nutrient sources; The nutrients to be applied from all fertilizer sources to meet the crop or plant nutrient requirements; Any recommendation for: The liming of the soil, The application time for nutrients, including split applications, and the use of diagnostics to determine crop nutrient requirements, Any nutrient application method, The need to calibrate application equipment, The incorporation of natural organic fertilizers, and Any management strategy to achieve soil fertility within an optimal range; and Current or recommended tillage method. Summary of Nutrient Recommendations. A plan shall contain a summary section that lists the following information for each farm field or management unit: The field or management unit identifier or number; The field or management unit acreage; The expected crop or plant; The expected crop yield or plant production goals for the period covered by the plan; Any recommended nutrient rates; The amount and type of nutrients, including chemical fertilizer or natural organic fertilizer, per acre or management unit; The nutrient application method and, if application method requires incorporation of the nutrient, timing for incorporation; and Any liming recommendations, if needed. Plan Maintenance. A plan shall contain information to maintain and update a nutrient management plan. General comments about plan maintenance may be summarized and shall include: The length of time the plan is effective; The circumstances or changes in the farm operation that would require the plan to be modified or updated, including a change: To the planned crop or cropping rotation, or introduction of a new crop not currently addressed in the existing nutrient management plan, unless the new crop or plant will have fertility management similar to that originally planned, Of nutrient source or soil test results that indicate a change in nutrient recommendations, In acreage managed of 10 percent or greater, or 30 acres, whichever is less, or In animal units of 10 percent or greater if resultant manure production will require significant management adjustments; and Any information on soil fertility and management strategies for achieving soil fertility within an optimal range. A certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator shall address all of the elements and use the criteria described in §§B—I of this regulation to determine recommendations in a nutrient management plan. A consultant's or certified farm operator's recommendations shall be consistent with the Department technical standards and criteria as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Sections I, II, and III. Nutrient Rates. Nutrient rates of the primary nutrients shall be calculated for plant growth requirements of the crop. Plant growth requirements shall be based on one of the following: University of Maryland Plant or Crop Nutrient Recommendations, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B; or Alternative standards, as provided in scientifically validated data for the development of a nutrient management plan acceptable to the Department. A consultant or certified farm operator may recommend the use of lime, secondary nutrients, or micronutrients needed for optimal plant growth. A consultant or certified farm operator may recommend nutrient rates that deviate from University of Maryland Plant or Crop Nutrient Recommendations and alternative standards provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, for application on farm test plots with prior approval from the Department. A consultant or certified farm operator may recommend nutrient rates based on a single variety tissue sample when used in conjunction with a soil sample. Expected Crop Yield or Production Goal. The calculation of expected crop yield shall be based upon one of the following: An average of the 3 highest-yielding years for the crop out of the latest consecutive 5-year cropping sequence; or If yield information exists for more than 5 years for a given field or management unit, crop yield calculations may be based on the average of 60 percent of the highest-yielding years for all consecutive years that crop yield information is available. If field or management unit-specific yield or plant production goal information is unavailable or unrepresentative due to the inclusion of new seed varieties, irrigation, or new technologies, a consultant or certified farm operator shall use one of the following: Any soil productivity information; The average yield based upon an average of the 3 highest-yielding years for the crop out of the latest consecutive 5-year cropping sequence from nearby fields or management units with similar soil type and management conditions; or Any data acceptable to the Department. A consultant shall document what information was used as the basis for determining expected yield goal as part of the consultant's record-keeping requirements. Soil Analysis Results. Soil analysis results for each field or management unit shall be based on standard soil sampling and analysis methods acceptable to the Department. Soil Samples. Variations from the standard sampling process shall be documented by the consultant or certified farm operator and may include: Soil samples collected from larger fields or acreage with uniform characteristics, including soil types, moisture, or fertility management history; crop rotations may be sampled as one management unit; Soil samples from fields, such as those common to strip cropping, which may be combined if the soils, previous cropping history, and soil fertility management are similar; and Any specialized production unit which may warrant smaller sampling units. Soil analysis results for a plan are valid for 3 years, except if the following conditions exist and are documented by the consultant or certified farm operator: A less frequent soil analysis is required to implement a management system based on new technologies; The management system does not require any nutrient application; or The management system requires nutrient application at a frequency less than once every 3 years. A recommendation for more than one planting season or crop may be made if anticipated soil fertility changes from the following are documented: Previous and future crop rotations; and Residual soil nutrients and nutrients used for previous crops. Determination of Limiting Nutrient. A consultant or certified farm operator shall: Use the criteria in this section to determine which nutrient is the limiting factor in the application of nutrients; and Recommend subsequent nutrient management strategies consistent with this section. Soil fertility shall be used as an indicator of whether nutrient recommendations should be adjusted to address potential nutrient pollution problems. If the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value (FIV) of less than 150, nutrient recommendations may be based on nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section 1-B. Phosphorus Criteria for Tier A Operations. Except for nutrient management plans developed in accordance with §E(4)(e) of this regulation, the certified consultant shall: Provide the operator information outlining the changes in the management of the operation that will be required when the Phosphorus Management Tool becomes effective; Calculate the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation; and Report the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation to the Department on a form provided by the Department not later than September 1, 2016. Nutrient management plans implemented before July 1, 2019 shall: Be developed using both the Phosphorus Site Index and the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C; and Use the Phosphorus Site Index set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase I set forth in Regulation .07 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Unless the transition schedule is adjusted as provided under this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II set forth in Regulation .08 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2020, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under Transition Management Phase II: Transition Management Phase I shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2021; The transition to Transition Management Phase II, as provided in this section, shall be implemented 1 year later, beginning July 1, 2021; and The subsequent schedule to transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in §E(4)(e) of this regulation, likewise shall be implemented 1 year later, beginning July 1, 2022. Unless the transition schedule is adjusted as provided under either §E(4)(d) of this regulation or this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented after July 1, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Management Tool set forth in Regulation .09 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2021 or, alternatively, January 1, 2022, if the transition schedule has been adjusted under §E(4)(d) of this regulation, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under the Phosphorus Management Tool: Transition Management Phase II shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(4)(d) of this regulation; The Phosphorus Management Tool shall be used to determine phosphorus applications after June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, after June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(4)(d) of this regulation. Phosphorus Criteria for Tier B Operations. Except for nutrient management plans developed in accordance with §E(5)(e) of this regulation, the certified consultant shall: Provide the operator information outlining the changes in the management of the operation that shall be required when the Phosphorus Management Tool becomes effective; Calculate the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation; and Report the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation to the Department on a form provided by the Department not later than September 1, 2016. Nutrient management plans developed for implementation before July 1, 2018 shall: Be developed using both the Phosphorus Site Index and the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C; and Use the Phosphorus Site Index set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase I set forth in Regulation .07 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Unless the schedule is adjusted as provided under this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II set forth in Regulation .08 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2019, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manuretransportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under Transition Management Phase II: Transition Management Phase I shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2020; The transition to Transition Management Phase II, as provided in this section, shall be implemented 1 year later, beginning July 1, 2020; and The subsequent schedule to transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in §E(5)(d) of this regulation, shall be implemented 2 years later, beginning July 1, 2022. Unless the transition schedule is adjusted as provided under either §E(5)(d) of this regulation or this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented after July 1, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Management Tool set forth in Regulation .09 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2021 or, alternatively, January 1, 2022, if the transition schedule has been adjusted under §E(5)(d) of this regulation, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under the Phosphorus Management Tool: Transition Management Phase II shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(5)(d) of this regulation; and The Phosphorus Management Tool shall be used to determine phosphorus applications after June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, after June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(5)(d) of this regulation. Phosphorus Criteria for Tier C Operations. Except for nutrient management plans developed in accordance with §E(6)(e) of this regulation, the certified consultant shall: Provide the operator information outlining the changes in the management of the operation that will be required when the Phosphorus Management Tool becomes effective; Calculate the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation; and Report the Average Soil Phosphorus Fertility Index Value for the operation to the Department on a form provided by the Department not later than September 1, 2016. Nutrient management plans implemented prior to July 1, 2017 shall: Be developed using both the Phosphorus Site Index and the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C; and Use the Phosphorus Site Index set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2019 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase 1 set forth in Regulation .07 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Unless the schedule is adjusted as provided under this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Transition Management Phase II set forth in Regulation .08 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2019, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under Transition Management Phase II: Transition Management Phase I shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2020; The transition to Transition Management Phase II, as provided in this section, shall be implemented 1 year later, beginning July 1, 2020; and The subsequent schedule to transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in §E(6)(e) of this regulation, shall be implemented 2 years later, beginning July 1, 2022. Unless the transition schedule is adjusted, as provided under either §E(6)(d) of this regulation or this paragraph, nutrient management plans implemented after July 1, 2021 shall use the Phosphorus Management Tool set forth in Regulation .09 of this chapter to determine phosphorus applications. Before January 1, 2021 or, alternatively, January 1, 2022, if the transition schedule has been adjusted under §E(6)(d) of this regulation, the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee, shall conduct an evaluation of the existing markets for animal manures, participation in and additional capacity of the Manure Transport Program, the capacity of existing infrastructure for manure transportation, handling and land application, the availability of public and private sector resources, and the status and capacity of alternative uses to utilize animal manures. The evaluation shall be comprehensive in scope, considering all available, relevant information to address current major animal agriculture sectors in the State with the objective of advancing implementation of the next level of management to the maximum extent practicable. If the results of this evaluation indicate insufficient capacity to support the additional volume of animal manure expected to be created when operations are required to determine phosphorus applications under the Phosphorus Management Tool: Transition Management Phase II shall continue to be used to determine phosphorus applications for 1 additional year, through June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(6)(d), of this regulation; The Phosphorus Management Tool shall be used to determine phosphorus applications after June 30, 2022 or, alternatively, after June 30, 2023, if the schedule has also been adjusted under §E(6)(d) of this regulation. Natural Organic Fertilizer. An agricultural operator who uses natural organic fertilizer shall determine its nutrient value as specified in this section. Test results for natural organic fertilizer shall be determined by an operator, consultant, or certified farm operator using standard sampling and analysis methods acceptable to the Department. The consultant or operator shall conduct animal manure or waste analysis as close to application time as possible, or a consistent baseline for nutrient content may be established and used from analysis results taken at least twice a year until a uniform value is confirmed, and then for every second year thereafter to verify its consistency. If significant changes occur, including feed, management, animals, or storage, a new analysis for nutrient content shall be determined by the consultant or operator for the new manure. Biosolids analysis shall be conducted according to COMAR 26.04.06.09A(13)(d) as close to nutrient application time as possible, but at least once a year. If changes occur in a sewage treatment facility, or routine biosolids analysis reveals a significant change in available nutrient content during the permit period, nutrient application rates shall be adjusted accordingly by the consultant, or certified farm operator, or the operator. Analysis of any other natural organic fertilizer or organic materials shall be conducted by the operator as close to nutrient application time as possible, but at least once a year. Calculations for nutrient content from natural organic fertilizer shall consider mineralization rates and plant availability rates for different forms and sources of organic nutrients. Mineralization of organic nitrogen from the 2 previous years of natural organic fertilizer applications shall be accounted for in the plan. Application Method for Nutrients. A consultant or certified farm operator shall consider the following when making recommendations on nutrient application methods in a plan: Nutrient application shall be made to minimize nitrogen and phosphorus losses to waters and nitrogen volatilization losses to the atmosphere; Techniques to achieve accurate and uniform application of nutrients shall be recommended by the consultant or certified farm operator and shall be used by the operator; Split application of nitrogen on soils identified as having a high leaching potential; Measures to minimize or control nutrient movement to sensitive areas, including natural or existing wetlands, sinkholes, and steep slopes; and Recommendations shall ensure efficient application of fertilizers and may include crop rotation, agronomic practices, tillage, and cover crop management. Timing of Nutrient Application. Timing for nutrient applications, as recommended by a consultant or certified farm operator and conducted by an operator, shall: Be as close to plant nutrient uptake periods as possible; Maximize plant utilization efficiency and minimize the potential for nutrient movement; and Be consistent with the guidelines contained in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-D. Manure Management. When an agricultural operation either produces animals or integrates animal manure use with crop production, a consultant or certified farm operator shall: Take into account the current manure management measures being used to store, stockpile, and handle animal manure and waste nutrients associated with animal production in order to make appropriate recommendations for application rates, timing, and methods; Evaluate existing conditions and procedures and advise the operator when manure management changes, such as improved stockpiling or storage facilities, would minimize the potential for nutrient loss or runoff or improve nutrient use efficiency and proper timing of manure utilization; and Take into account animal manure or waste nutrients associated with animal production and all other sources of nutrients when making recommendations. Except as provided in §F of this regulation, if the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or greater, the Phosphorus Site Index, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C1, shall be used to determine the potential risk of phosphorus loss due to site characteristics. Low Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. If the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is low according to the Phosphorus Site Index, nutrient recommendations by the consultant or certified farm operator may use nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor. Medium Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §C(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is medium according to the Phosphorus Site Index, nutrient rates shall be based on nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor not more than 1 out of every 3 years. Phosphorus rates for the other 2 years shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. Nutrient recommendations may use nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor if BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Site Index, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to low. High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §D(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is high according to the Phosphorus Site Index, phosphorus rates shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Site Index, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to medium, nutrient rates may be based on nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor not more than 1 out of every 3 years. Phosphorus rates for the other 2 years shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. Very High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §E(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is very high according to the Phosphorus Site Index, no additional phosphorus may be applied. If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Site Index, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to high, recommended rates of application of phosphorus shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. The operator shall consider the implementation of management practices and technologies that are effective in lowering the risk of phosphorus loss, based on research and demonstration of the University of Maryland, or other land grant university, or by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Planning Procedures Handbook and practice standards adopted for Maryland. If the soil sample analysis results indicate a phosphorus fertility index value of 500 or greater, no phosphorus may be applied. Except as provided in §E of this regulation, if the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or greater, the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C2, shall be used to determine the potential risk of phosphorus loss due to site characteristics. Low Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. If the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is low according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, nutrient recommendations by the consultant or certified farm operator may use nitrogen plant needs as the limiting factor. Nutrient applications shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crop over a 3-year period. Medium Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §C(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is medium according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, total phosphorus applications related to crops anticipated to be planted in a 3-year period shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crops over the 3-year period, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to low, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §B of this regulation. High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §D(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is high according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, phosphorus rates shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to medium, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §C of this regulation. The operator shall consider the implementation of management practices and technologies that are effective in lowering the risk of phosphorus loss based on research and demonstration of the University of Maryland, or other land grant university, or by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Planning Procedures Handbook and practice standards adopted for Maryland. If the soil sample analysis results indicate a phosphorus fertility index value of 500 or greater, no phosphorus may be applied. Except as provided in §E of this regulation, if the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or greater, the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C2, shall be used to determine the potential risk of phosphorus loss due to site characteristics. Low Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. If the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is low according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, total phosphorus applications related to crops anticipated to be planted in a 3-year period shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crops over the 3-year period, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. Medium Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §C(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is medium according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, total phosphorus applications related to crops anticipated to be planted in a 2-year period shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crops over the 2-year period, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to low, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §B of this regulation. High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §D(3) and (4) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is high according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, phosphorus rates shall be limited to 50 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. If limits of technology of available application equipment prevent application at 50 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest immediately following the phosphorus application, phosphorus rates shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest immediately following the phosphorus application, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to medium, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §C of this regulation. If the crop to be produced is certified as organic pursuant to the requirements of the federal Organic Foods Production Act, 7 U.S.C. §6501 et seq., including implementing federal regulations, as amended, recommended rates of application of phosphorus shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, or the amount indicated by soil testing in accordance with recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. The operator shall consider the implementation of management practices and technologies that are effective in lowering the risk of phosphorus loss based on research and demonstration of the University of Maryland, or other land grant university, or by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Planning Procedures Handbook and practice standards adopted for Maryland. If the soil sample analysis results indicate a phosphorus fertility index value of 500 or greater, no phosphorus may be applied. If the soil sample analysis results show a phosphorus fertility index value of 150 or greater, the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-C2, shall be used to determine the potential risk of phosphorus loss due to site characteristics. Low Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. If the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is low according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, total phosphorus applications related to crops anticipated to be planted in a 3-year period shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus removed by the planned crops over the 3-year period. Medium Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §C(2) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is medium according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, phosphorus rates shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing, in accordance with the recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B , whichever is greater. If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to low, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §B of this regulation. High Risk of Potential Phosphorus Loss. Except as provided in §D(2)—(6) of this regulation, if the risk for potential loss of phosphorus from the site is high according to the Phosphorus Management Tool, no additional phosphorus may be applied. If BMPs are implemented by the operator before or during the application of additional phosphorus that address site or management characteristics which, according to the outcome of a recalculation using the Phosphorus Management Tool, reduce the risk of phosphorus loss to medium, nutrient rates may be established as provided by §C of this regulation. If the crop to be produced is certified as organic pursuant to the requirements of the federal Organic Foods Production Act, 7 U.S.C. §6501 et seq., including implementing federal regulations, as amended, recommended rates of application of phosphorus shall be limited to the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops, or the amount indicated by soil testing in accordance with recommendations described in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, whichever is greater. Except when subject to cold and wet growing conditions, crops determined to be deficient in phosphorus, as demonstrated by a representative tissue analysis by an accredited laboratory, may receive an application of phosphorus not to exceed 25 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest immediately following the phosphorus application. Vegetable and tobacco crops with a recommended phosphorus application rate of 40 pounds or more at optimum or excessive fertility levels as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section I-B, may receive a phosphorus application at planting not to exceed 25 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the crop or plant harvest immediately following the phosphorus application. Agricultural operations implementing technologies to reduce the phosphorus content of animal manures by at least 75 percent shall limit phosphorus application rates to 50 percent of the expected amount removed from the field by the planned crop or plant rotation immediately following the phosphorus application, not to exceed two crops. The operator shall consider the implementation of management practices and technologies that are effective in lowering the risk of phosphorus loss based on research and demonstration of the University of Maryland, or other land grant university, or by the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Planning Procedures Handbook and practice standards adopted for Maryland. 7-YEAR TRANSITION SCHEDULE* Crop Year** 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Average PFIV>450(Tier COperations PSI PSI TM1 TM1 TM2 TM2 PMT Average PFIV 300-450(Tier BOperations PSI PSI PSI TM1 TM2 TM2 PMT Average PFIV 150-299(Tier AOperations PSI PSI PSI PSI TM1 TM2 PMT PSI — Phosphorus Site Index TM1 — Transition Management Phase 1 TM2 — Transition Management Phase 2 PMT — Phosphorus Management Tool *The 7-Year transition period assumes that the Department, in consultation with the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee does not make any adjustments to the transition schedule as provided for in this chapter. **The term “crop year” means the 1-year period beginning July 1 of the previous year through June 30 of the current year. For example, the 2016 crop year begins on July 1, 2015 and ends on June 30, 2016. Beginning in 2015 and continuing until the Phosphorus Management Tool is fully implemented, there shall be established within the Department, the Phosphorus Management Tool Transition Advisory Committee. The Committee shall be chaired by the Secretary. Its membership may include the following persons: A member of the Senate, appointed by the President; A member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker; The Secretary of the Environment, or his designee; The Director of the Maryland Environmental Service, or his designee; The Director of the Maryland Energy Administration, or his designee; The University of Maryland, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources; The Chesapeake Bay Commission; Members appointed by the Secretary, including a representative from: The Maryland Farm Bureau; The Maryland Grain Producers Association; The Delmarva Poultry Industry, Inc.; The Maryland Dairy Industry Association; The Chesapeake Bay Foundation; Two non-governmental organizations representing environmental interests; The biosolids industry; The manure hauling industry; The manure application industry; Two alternative technology vendors or Enterprises; and Two representatives of county and municipal government from a list submitted by the Maryland Association of Counties and the Maryland Municipal League. The purpose of the committee shall be to: Evaluate information relevant to the implementation of the Phosphorus Management Tool including: The quantity and location of excess animal manure within the State; The status and activity of manure transportation activities in geographic areas with excess animal manures; The viability of markets for animal manures as a crop fertilizer, fuel stock for energy generation and other alternative uses; The status and capacity of alternative use technologies using animal manures; and Other information the Department and the Advisory Committee deems appropriate. Recommend to the Secretary strategies to facilitate the effective implementation of the Phosphorus Management Tool; Recommend to the Secretary potential changes to the schedule implementing the Phosphorus Management Tool, as provided for in this chapter; and Identify resources necessary for the effective transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool. The Committee shall meet at least annually at a time determined by the Department. Annual Report. Beginning December 1, 2016 and each year thereafter, until the Phosphorus Management Tool is fully implemented, the Committee shall provide a report to the Governor and the General Assembly. The report shall include: A summary of the data collected from farms related to the operational changes created by implementing the Phosphorus Management Tool; The status of certain programs related to or supporting the transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool; Resource needs considered critical for the effective transition to the Phosphorus Management Tool; and Policy recommendations to enhance the implementation of the Phosphorus Management Tool. A certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator shall prepare, and an operator of container or out-of-ground agricultural production shall conform to the requirements of §§B—H of this regulation, in addition to applicable requirements described in this chapter, when developing and implementing, a nutrient management plan. Plan Elements. A plan shall contain a summary of planned plant production applicable to the site, including: A listing of plants to be grown by name, species, and variety and cultivar or both; however, if more than 20 different kinds of plants are grown, general plant categories may be used, such as herbaceous, deciduous shrub, coniferous evergreen, broadleaf evergreen, or trees; The estimated greatest number of plants, units, or containers that will be in production at any one time during a calendar year and the month this will occur; The estimated percentages of plants, units, or containers in the following container size categories: Less than 1 gallon (less than 2,492 cubic centimeters container volume), From 1 to 3 gallons (2,492 to 12,164 cubic centimeters), Greater than 3 gallons and less than 15 gallons (more than 12,164, but less than 45,376 cubic centimeters), or 15 gallons or greater (45,376 cubic centimeters or more); An inventory, which may include projected changes during the life of the plan, taken by the operator for any purpose within 12 months of completion of the plan, which shall meet the requirements of §B(1), (2), and (3) of this regulation, if the inventory is representative of planned production during the period covered by a nutrient management plan; Total growing area under the plan, which may include projected changes in growing area planned to take place during the life of the plan. Summary of Nutrient Recommendations. A plan shall contain summary information on the total amount of primary nutrients recommended for each calendar year covered by the plan, including: The estimated total amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash; A listing of all sources of nutrients; The estimated amounts of each source of nutrients to be applied for each quarter of the year; and A listing or description of the application method or methods for each nutrient. Assessment of Environmental Risk. A nutrient management plan shall contain an assessment of the risk of nutrient losses to surface water, using the Environmental Risk Assessment for out-of-ground production provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-D. General Management Recommendations. A plan shall contain general recommendations to ensure efficient application of nutrients, including: The calibration of equipment; The timing and application methods for water and nutrients; Management options to maximize the efficient use of water; Any operator management options to reduce nutrient losses; and Any other best management practices that may be applicable as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-E. Specific Management Recommendations. A consultant or certified farm operator shall recommend growing area or section-specific management techniques to improve water use efficiency and minimize nutrient losses, including the following: Grouping plants to improve water and nutrient usage; Monitoring water and nutrient needs of plants; Increasing the percentage of water and nutrients entering the plant root zone; Reducing the amount of leachate or runoff; and Reducing or containing the flow of water from growing areas. Program for Monitoring Runoff. A nutrient management plan shall include recommendations to monitor runoff, as required in Regulation .07C of this chapter, including recommendations on methods, frequency, and locations of monitoring. Plan Maintenance. A plan shall contain information to maintain and update the plan. General comments about plan maintenance may be summarized, but shall include: The length of time the plan is effective, not to exceed 3 years; and Identification of changes in the agricultural operation that would require the original plan to be modified or updated, including a: Change in area managed of 20 percent or greater, or 5 acres, whichever is less, or Substantial change in a production plan or method. Nutrient Recommendations. A certified nutrient management consultant or certified farm operator shall evaluate production cycles and methods and make nutrient recommendations based on at least one of the following: The label recommendations on fertilizer products for the plants being grown or similar plants; The recommendations of the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension for the specific plants being grown or for similar plants; The recommendation from other state universities for the specific plants being grown or for similar plants; The data from research done by accredited universities on the specific plants being grown or similar plants; The general nutrition guidelines for similar plants; or Any generally accepted growing practices for plants under comparable growing conditions. Management Recommendations. A consultant or certified farm operator shall use the Environmental Risk Assessment for out-of-ground production, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-D, to identify the potential risk to the environment of nutrient movement from out-of-ground growing areas. For growing areas where there is zero or low risk of nutrient movement from the site, recommendations shall be made to maintain this zero or low level of risk. For growing areas where there is medium risk of nutrient movement: Management recommendations shall be made to minimize the risk of nutrients moving to, or reaching, surface waters; and The consultant or certified farm operator shall recommend that the operator or other person responsible for irrigation and nutrient management attend Department-approved training on best management practices for out-of-ground production to minimize nutrient losses. For growing areas where there is high risk of nutrient movement: Management recommendations shall be made for individual growing areas, as well as for the operation as a whole, to reduce the risk of nutrients moving to, or reaching, surface waters; The consultant or certified farm operator shall recommend that the operator or other person responsible for irrigation and nutrient management attend Department-approved training on best management practices for out-of-ground production that teaches how to minimize nutrient losses; and Only controlled release fertilizer shall be recommended for use until management changes reduce the risk of nutrient loss to medium. In recommending field or management unit practices to reduce or minimize nutrient losses, a consultant or certified farm operator shall consider the following: The appropriate nutrient application methods; Nutrient application timing; and Any plant nutrient needs. Timing of nutrient application shall be as close to plant nutrient uptake as possible, except in the case of controlled release fertilizer, which may be applied at any time. Recommendations for Monitoring Runoff. Unless an operation is assessed as zero risk for nutrient loss from the site, as provided in the Maryland Nutrient Management Manual, Section II-D, the nutrient management consultant shall recommend a monitoring program, including the following: The periods for monitoring when plant nutrients can reasonably be expected to be available; The locations immediately next to growing areas or areas where runoff or overflow from collection basins enters surface water, municipal stormwater, or drainage inlets; and The frequency of sampling for nutrients: Where the risk of nutrient movement from any growing area is low, monitoring shall include samples for testing a minimum of two different times during each growing season or cycle from each location; and Where the risk of impacting surface water is medium or high, monitoring recommendations shall be conducted monthly when nutrients are being applied. Methods of Sampling and Testing. Samples may be analyzed by the operator or consultant on-site using calibrated electrical conductivity (EC) or nutrient meters. To evaluate the accuracy of on-site test results, at least two samples per year shall be split, with one part being sent to an independent laboratory for analysis. Agriculture Article, §§8-801—8-806, Annotated Code of Maryland Effective date: May 29, 2000 (27:10 Md. R. 967) Regulation .02 amended effective August 5, 2002 (29:15 Md. R. 1143) Regulation .03B amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692) Regulation .04E amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692) Regulation .05 amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692) Regulation .06A amended effective April 16, 2001 (28:7 Md. R. 692) Chapter revised as an emergency provision effective December 22, 2004 (32:2 Md. R. 144); revised permanently effective April 11, 2005 (32:7 Md. R. 684) Regulation .02 amended effective July 31, 2006 (33:15 Md. R. 1282) Chapter revised effective June 8, 2015 (42:11 Md. R. 726)