Who enforces fertilizer and pesticide regulations in Maryland?

• A. The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA)
• B. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• C. Maryland Department of Health (MDH)
• D. Local county governments

Answer: (A)

The agency responsible for enforcing fertilizer and pesticide regulations in Maryland is the Maryland Department of Agriculture. This state department houses the Board of Pesticide Control and operates the pesticide regulation program, handling product registrations, applicator licensing and certification, label compliance, inspections, and pesticide-use reporting. While the federal Environmental Protection Agency enforces federal rules nationwide under FIFRA and can take action on interstate or federal matters, the day-to-day regulation and enforcement specific to Maryland’s laws fall to MDA. Local county governments may assist with local concerns, but they aren’t the primary regulator. The Maryland Department of Health handles public health and safety aspects, not routine regulatory enforcement of pesticides and fertilizers.