Regulating farm nutrient runoff : Maryland's experience with the Water Quality Improvement Act

Abstract

Federal and state programs designed to address nonpoint agricultural nutrient pollution rely almost exclusively on voluntary programs and financial incentives to encourage farmers to adopt nutrient management plans and other best management practices. In 1998, after highly publicized fish kills highlighted shortcomings in the voluntary approach, Maryland adopted the nation's strictest and most comprehensive nutrient management regulations. Seven years later, a majority of farmers are not in compliance with the law. This thesis examines the Maryland Department of Agriculture's implementation of the Water Quality Improvement Act. I find the department has continued to adhere to a voluntary approach to nutrient management. As a result, farmer practices are largely unchanged and the efficacy of a mandatory approach remains untested.