The quest for renewable energy sources to one day replace or reduce fossil fuels is taking a new turn at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Research is in progress to see if several varieties of trees and other plants, such as switchgrass, can be grown, harvested economically and used as sustainable bioenergy feedstocks. “Bioenergy…Read more UMES research explores trees as bioenergy source
UMES research aimed at tackling PFAS
UMES is answering the call to develop a better understanding of PFAS in Maryland, particularly on the Eastern Shore, through a gamut of grant-funded research projects. Maryland is creating an approach to PFAS taking into account what has been learned from other states, like Maine, that were at the forefront of addressing this hot-button issue….Read more UMES research aimed at tackling PFAS
Workshop focuses on herb growing, processing know-how
Specialty herbs consultant, Henriette den Ouden, lends her expertise to a full-day workshop on Nov. 19 at Kharis Lavender Fields in Gaithersburg, Maryland. UMES Extension is partnering with the lavender farm and the Montgomery County Office of Agricultural Services in offering the event. Designed for beginners and experienced herb farmers, it covers a wide range…Read more Workshop focuses on herb growing, processing know-how
UMES Small Farm Conference fosters cooperation, innovation
A record drought this fall has area farmers looking for ways to remain viable in the ever-challenging agricultural industry, one of the top economic drivers on the Eastern Shore and in Maryland. The University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s iconic Student Services Center was abuzz Nov. 1-2 with more than 200 agricultural stakeholders seeking solutions, ideas…Read more UMES Small Farm Conference fosters cooperation, innovation
UMES conference sprouts fresh, prosperous paths for small farmers
Want to learn how to grow the elusive pawpaw, learn about beekeeping or transition to agritourism? Trending topics in agriculture like these and more will be featured at the 21st annual UMES Small Farm Conference. The event takes place at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s main campus with one- or two-day options from Nov….Read more UMES conference sprouts fresh, prosperous paths for small farmers
UMES study looks at heat stress on pasture raised poultry
As the nation’s demographics change, so do the tastes and preferences of consumers when it comes to their food. Demand for meat produced through alternative methods, such as free range, organic and pastured, is on the rise. Today, however, when it comes to chickens, conventionally raised broilers dominate the U.S. poultry industry with 60 billion…Read more UMES study looks at heat stress on pasture raised poultry
Free activities for youth at UMES 4-H STEM Festival Oct. 19
Budding scientists in grades K-12 can experience STEM activities like a gravity-defying levitation that will have Harry Potter fans saying “Wingardium Leviosa!” at a free event Oct. 19 at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. This demonstration, cooling a superconducting material with liquid nitrogen that will allow it to float above a magnet, is among…Read more Free activities for youth at UMES 4-H STEM Festival Oct. 19
Learn how UMES helps keep Maryland ahead of shifts in mosquitoes
UPDATE: On Aug. 26, 2024, the Maryland Department of Health announced the first human case of West Nile virus in the Baltimore Metropolitan region. Those who follow the news have likely seen recent reports of the West Nile virus in an equine case in Frederick, Maryland, and sentinel chickens used for monitoring mosquito diseases in…Read more Learn how UMES helps keep Maryland ahead of shifts in mosquitoes
UMES event features environmentally friendly agricultural practices, equipment
Impending foul weather from Tropical Storm Debby held off in Princess Anne for the fourth annual UMES Ag Showcase. It was a hot and humid, but informative, day for about 175 attendees. “I am not sure who spoke with Mother Nature, but they should get a round of applause. We want to thank UMES and…Read more UMES event features environmentally friendly agricultural practices, equipment
UMES researcher addresses impact of climate change on grapevines
Grapevines, just as with other crops, have a new enemy: climate change. Producers and researchers are noticing changes in the leaves and berries, causing concern for the $270 billion table and wine grape industry in the United States. University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s “grape guy” Dr. Sadanand Dhekney has been working on improving the fruit…Read more UMES researcher addresses impact of climate change on grapevines