John Majsztrik

jcmajsz@umd.edu

Advisor:

Dr. John Lea-Cox

Education:

• BS in Biology from The College of New Jersey 1997-2001
  
• MS in Forest Biotechnology from The University of Georgia 2002-2004
  
• Ph.D. candidate at The University of Maryland 2004-present
  

Research Proect:

Modeling Nutrient Runoff from Nursery and Greenhouse Operations in Maryland

Nutrient and sediment runoff into the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries is a major concern because of the impact it has on aquatic plants and animals and the long-term health of the Bay.  Much of the research on nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and sediment loading into this watershed has focused on the impact of point source inputs and non-point source inputs from traditional farms, with minimal research focusing on nursery and greenhouse operations that produce ornamental plants.  There are about 390 ornamental operations in Maryland, which contain approximately 15% of the irrigated land that can potentially lose significant amounts of nutrient and sediment. 

The Maryland Department of Agriculture requires every registered nursery and greenhouse operation in the state to submit a detailed water and nutrient management plan, which identifies among other things, the species grown, production area, and yearly N and P application rates.  We have partnered with approximately 50 growers in the state who have allowed us to access their nutrient management plans.  This information will provide valuable insight into the practices that are being used in these operations.  We are also developing models that can accurately assess inputs and nutrient and sediment runoff from these farms.  Specific models are being developed for each type of operation (greenhouse, field, and container-nursery), in part with information from management plans, and talking with growers.  These models have the potential to help growers increase profits while decreasing their nutrient and water use and runoff.  This would lead to reductions in N, P and sediment runoff, help meet the goals of the 2010 Chesapeake Bay agreement, and promote the long-term sustainability of this sector of agriculture.