Advancing 4R Nutrient Stewardship Across Delaware & Maryland
The Delaware-Maryland 4R Alliance unites agribusinesses, farmers, government agencies, conservation groups, and scientists. Together, we’re making sure every nutrient application across Delmarva farms follows the 4Rs — the Right Source, Rate, Time, and Place — to improve profitability, protect waterways, and strengthen communities.
A Collaborative Approach to Farming & Conservation in Delaware and Maryland
Founded in 2015 by The Nature Conservancy and the Delaware-Maryland Agribusiness Association, the Delaware-Maryland 4R Alliance (formerly the Chesapeake 4R Alliance) works to increase the adoption of nutrient stewardship practices across Delaware and Maryland farms.
Our Mission:
Help farmers apply nutrients efficiently and responsibly while supporting long-term farm productivity and water quality in the Chesapeake Bay region.
Recognizing the People Who Make DEMD4R Work
This Alliance succeeds because of a committed network of leaders across agriculture and conservation.
Kristin Fisher
Non-Government Organization (Secretary)
Lindsay Thompson
Delaware Maryland Agribusiness Association
Delaware Maryland Agribusiness Assocation (Current Chair)
Tim Hushon
Agribusiness
Logan Field
Agribusiness
Jamie Kimbles
Agribusiness
Sapana Pokhrel
Research
Brooke Walls
Delaware Department of Agriculture
Government
Nick Miller
Maryland Department of Agriculture
Government
Practical Solutions for Delaware & Maryland Farmers
The Alliance focuses on:
- Increasing productivity and profitability for Delaware and Maryland farms.
- Hosting 4R workshops and field days to connect farmers and advisors.
- Supporting on-farm demonstrations for variable-rate nitrogen management and nutrient modeling.
- Building partnerships through conservation programs like RCPP, CSP, EQIP, and WRE.
Turning 4R Principles Into Regional Results
Since 2015, the Delaware-Maryland 4R Alliance has:
- Helped farmers manage thousands of acres with conservation practices.
- Launched on-farm demos showing the benefits of precision nutrient management.
- Connected agribusinesses, conservation partners, and farmers through hands-on training events.
Every acre managed with the 4Rs benefits farmers, waterways, and the entire Chesapeake Bay region.
Join the 4R Movement in Delaware & Maryland
Farmers, agribusinesses, and conservation partners are all part of this effort. You can:
Download our handouts on 4R Practices
Learn more about the benefits of membership
Press and News
2027 Small Grain Vouchers Are Now Available
August 18, 2026
Vouchers for farmers and trusted advisors to plan their next step in 4R adoption are now available for the 2026/2027 small grain season. From testing a nitrogen claim reduction product to splitting your nitrogen across the growing season, farmers and trusted advisors can earn a $1,000 planning voucher from the Mid-Atlantic 4R Nutrient Stewardship Association. There will be 30 small grain vouchers available for the final time of our 2024 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Innovative and Nutrient Sediment Reduction Grant.
4R Voucher & Implementation Program: Winter Enrollment Opens August 18
August 14, 2026
Funding is available for Chesapeake Bay Watershed farmers and trusted advisors implementing advanced nutrient management practices. Eligible participants may receive planning vouchers, per-acre cost-share payments, and technical assistance support for qualifying 4R stewardship projects.
Nominate The Next Mid-Atlantic 4R Advocate
August 11, 2026
Mid-Atlantic 4R Nutrient Stewardship Association (MA4R) will be accepting nominations until December 4th. The purpose of a 4R Advocate program is to highlight growers and agricultural retail partners for implementing 4R practices, while offering a year of recognition.
Plant Map 3D: A New Technology Helping Farmers Get More Benefit from Cover Crops
August 9, 2026
Applications are open for the 2027 season. Plant Map 3D maps the nitrogen your cover crop has made available across the field, so sidedress rates can be adjusted acre by acre. Mapping is covered by the program, plus up to $50/acre yield protection.
Contact Info
📞 Lindsay Thompson | 443-262-8491
📧 lindsay.mdag@gmail.com
📱 Facebook: @DEMD4RAlliance