Maryland's Conservation Buffer Initiative supports farmers and landowners in creating or improving farmland buffers to reduce erosion and nutrient runoff and protect local streams and the Chesapeake Bay.
The 2026–2027 application cycle opens November 1, replacing the closed 2025–2026 cycle, and the deadline moves from April 30, 2026, to April 30, 2027. Contact your local Soil Conservation District to apply.
Conservation Buffer Initiative supports Maryland farmers and landowners in establishing or improving farm buffers to protect local streams, improve water quality, and support Chesapeake Bay health.
The Maryland Farm Stewardship Program funds tree planting and conservation practices to improve water quality and wildlife habitat on Maryland farms, led by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Tree Planting Incentives support Maryland farmers and landowners planting new trees through agricultural conservation practices to advance the state’s tree-planting goal and capture greenhouse gas emissions.
The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) by Maryland DNR supports landowners in adopting science-driven conservation practices to protect water quality and restore habitats on farmland near waterways.
The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) by the Maryland Department of Agriculture funds landowners to restore sensitive land with science-based conservation practices for water quality and wildlife habitat.