David Conrad plans, develops and implements University of Maryland Cooperative Extension educational programs in the area of tobacco science for the Southern Maryland tobacco producing counties (Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s) and Cecil County. He assists statewide focus team efforts in the area of small farm and forest educational programming. This position is stationed at the Upper Marlboro Facility of the Central Maryland Research and Education Center. Dave works cooperatively with other state specialists, county agricultural Extension educators, faculty Extension assistants, and nutrient management advisors to provide technical and programmatic support for tobacco growers. He conducts applied research, which supports the tobacco industry and other aspects of Maryland agriculture. Support is also provided to domestic and export tobacco companies and other tobacco industry officials supporting the industries economic well being. Applied research, written publications, and Extension teaching methods support best management practices, integrated pest management, total crop management and other environmental issues, and matters of public policy which are issues regarding tobacco production, marketing, and economic well-being. Dave supports the Small Farm Focus Team in the development and evaluation of educational materials used for curriculum development and teaching: to develop and update the teachers’ bureau; develop and critique evaluation instruments; and, update production information for current and prospective Maryland Type 32 and Burley Type 31 tobacco producers.
