About the University of Maryland Extension
The University of Maryland Extension provides research-based education and outreach programs that support agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, environmental stewardship, family and consumer sciences, youth development, and community improvement throughout Maryland. As the public outreach arm of the University of Maryland, Extension connects residents, farmers, gardeners, businesses, and local governments with practical solutions backed by university research.
Official Website
Maryland’s diverse geography includes the Chesapeake Bay watershed, Atlantic coastal areas, agricultural regions, forests, suburban communities, and major urban centers. The University of Maryland Extension develops programs tailored to the unique environmental, agricultural, and community needs found throughout the state.
Core Services Offered
The University of Maryland Extension provides educational resources and technical assistance across a wide range of disciplines that support economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.
Agriculture and Crop Production
Agriculture remains an important industry in Maryland, producing grains, vegetables, fruits, nursery crops, poultry, and livestock. Extension specialists help producers improve productivity and sustainability.
- Crop production management
- Integrated pest management
- Soil health programs
- Nutrient management planning
- Irrigation management
- Agricultural business development
Extension programs support producers across Maryland’s diverse agricultural sectors while promoting environmentally responsible farming practices.
Home Gardening and Horticulture
Homeowners and gardening enthusiasts throughout Maryland rely on Extension resources for science-based guidance on gardening and landscape management.
- Vegetable gardening
- Fruit production
- Landscape maintenance
- Tree and shrub care
- Lawn management
- Garden pest identification
Master Gardener Program
The Maryland Master Gardener Program trains volunteers who help educate residents about sustainable gardening and environmental stewardship.
Master Gardeners assist residents with:
- Plant selection
- Pest identification
- Composting techniques
- Native plant landscaping
- Pollinator conservation
- Sustainable gardening practices
Forestry and Natural Resources
Maryland’s forests, watersheds, and natural habitats require ongoing management and protection.
- Forest stewardship
- Tree health management
- Wildlife habitat improvement
- Watershed protection
- Conservation planning
- Natural resource management
Chesapeake Bay and Environmental Programs
The Chesapeake Bay is one of Maryland’s most important natural resources. Extension programs support water quality improvement and environmental conservation throughout the watershed.
- Nutrient management education
- Stormwater management
- Bay restoration initiatives
- Water quality monitoring
- Sustainable landscaping
- Environmental stewardship programs
Family and Consumer Sciences
Extension educators provide programs that improve health, nutrition, financial literacy, and family well-being.
- Nutrition education
- Food safety training
- Health and wellness programs
- Financial management education
- Consumer education
- Community development initiatives
4-H Youth Development
The Maryland 4-H program provides educational opportunities that help young people develop leadership skills and practical knowledge.
- STEM education
- Agricultural sciences
- Environmental education
- Animal science projects
- Leadership development
- Community service activities
Pest Pressures and Challenges in Maryland
Maryland’s humid climate, diverse ecosystems, and extensive agricultural production create favorable conditions for a wide variety of insect pests, plant diseases, and invasive species. Extension specialists provide science-based recommendations to help residents and producers manage these challenges effectively.
Ticks
Ticks are among Maryland’s most significant public health concerns due to their role in transmitting diseases.
Common tick species include:
- Blacklegged Ticks (Deer Ticks)
- American Dog Ticks
- Lone Star Ticks
- Brown Dog Ticks
Extension specialists provide educational resources covering tick identification, habitat management, personal protection, and disease prevention.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are widespread throughout Maryland, particularly in areas near wetlands, forests, and standing water.
Extension programs provide guidance on:
- Mosquito biology
- Breeding habitat reduction
- Integrated mosquito management
- Personal protection strategies
- Community mosquito control efforts
Garden and Landscape Pests
Home gardens and ornamental landscapes frequently encounter a variety of insect pests and plant diseases.
Common garden pests include:
- Aphids
- Japanese Beetles
- Flea Beetles
- Cabbage Worms
- Squash Bugs
- Spider Mites
Extension publications help gardeners identify pest problems and implement effective management strategies.
Household and Structural Pests
Maryland homeowners regularly encounter pests that invade homes and other buildings.
Common household pests include:
- Termites
- Ants
- Cockroaches
- Bed Bugs
- Rodents
- Spiders
Extension resources emphasize prevention, exclusion, sanitation, and integrated pest management techniques.
Tree and Forest Pests
Maryland’s forests and urban tree populations face threats from both native and invasive insects.
Important tree pests include:
- Emerald Ash Borers
- Spongy Moths
- Hemlock Woolly Adelgids
- Bark Beetles
- Scale Insects
- Wood-boring Beetles
Extension forestry specialists help landowners and municipalities monitor tree health and respond to emerging pest threats.
Agricultural Crop Pests
Maryland farmers manage a variety of insect pests that can impact crop yields and profitability.
Important agricultural pests include:
- Corn Rootworms
- Soybean Aphids
- Stink Bugs
- Armyworms
- Cutworms
- Spider Mites
Extension specialists provide seasonal monitoring information and management recommendations to support sustainable crop production.
Invasive Species
Maryland continues to face challenges from invasive insects that threaten agriculture, forests, landscapes, and natural ecosystems.
Notable invasive pests include:
- Spotted Lanternflies
- Emerald Ash Borers
- Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
- Hemlock Woolly Adelgids
- Asian Longhorned Beetles
Extension personnel work with state and federal agencies to support monitoring, detection, and public education efforts.
Integrated Pest Management Programs
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a core component of University of Maryland Extension pest management education programs.
IPM strategies emphasize:
- Accurate pest identification
- Pest monitoring and scouting
- Preventive cultural practices
- Biological control methods
- Habitat modification
- Responsible pesticide use
These approaches help reduce pest populations while protecting beneficial organisms, pollinators, water quality, and environmental health.
Research and Diagnostic Services
The University of Maryland conducts extensive research focused on agriculture, environmental stewardship, pest management, forestry, and community sustainability.
Research areas include:
- Crop protection
- Biological control
- Pesticide resistance management
- Urban pest management
- Forest health monitoring
- Chesapeake Bay conservation
Extension specialists translate scientific research into practical recommendations that benefit Maryland residents, businesses, and agricultural producers.
Educational Publications and Resources
The University of Maryland Extension publishes a wide variety of educational materials covering agriculture, pest management, gardening, forestry, environmental stewardship, and community development.
Popular Resources Include:
- Pest identification guides
- Crop production manuals
- Garden pest fact sheets
- Tree health resources
- Lawn care publications
- Invasive species alerts
Many publications are available online and are regularly updated to reflect current research findings and emerging pest concerns.
Contact the University of Maryland Extension
Whether you need help identifying a pest, managing a crop, improving a lawn, maintaining a garden, protecting trees, addressing tick concerns, or supporting environmental conservation efforts, the University of Maryland Extension provides access to research-based information and local expertise throughout the state.
Residents can contact their local Extension office or visit the University of Maryland Extension website to access educational publications, pest management resources, diagnostic assistance, and professional guidance.