Animal and Avian Sciences (ANSC)

Key Speakers:
Equine Extension Specialist: Dr. Amy Burk
With a wealth of experience in equine health and management, our equine extension specialist will delve into the unique needs of horses in a rotational grazing environment. From grazing behavior to nutritional requirements, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to ensure the well-being of their equine companions.

Forage Extension Specialist: Dr. Amanda Grev
Our forage specialist will share her expertise on cultivating and maintaining high-quality pasture for horses. From grass species selection to rotational system management, attendees will learn essential techniques for fostering forage that supports optimal equine health.

Howard County Extension Agriculture Agent: Nathan Glenn
With years of comprehensive experience in agriculture education, and a unique understanding of farm economics, our local county ag agent can help farm owners learn when pasture management techniques can help with the bottom line expenses associated with horse keeping, especially on smaller acreages.

Event Highlights:
- Comprehensive overview of rotational grazing principles and benefits for horse owners.
- Practical guidance on designing and implementing rotational grazing systems tailored to equine needs.
- Strategies for pasture rotation scheduling, stocking rates, and fencing design to maximize forage utilization and minimize pasture degradation.
- Q&A sessions with our expert speakers, providing attendees with the opportunity to address specific concerns and gain personalized advice.

Whether you are looking for additional tips to improve what you already have in place or are new to rotational grazing, this educational event offers invaluable knowledge and resources to help you unlock the full potential of your pastures and promote the well-being of your horses. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow horse owners and gain insights from leading experts in the field of equine and forage management. Join us and take the first step towards a healthier, more sustainable approach to pasture management for your equine companions.

The University of Maryland will hold the 2024 main commencement ceremony on Monday, May 20, 2024, in SECU Stadium. The student processional will begin at 6 p.m.

Join the University of Maryland College of Agriculture & Natural Resources and the AGNR Alumni Network for a night on the farm! 

Held on the Central Maryland Research and Education Center - Clarksville Facility, this casual farm to table event will include a picnic dinner, wagon tour and showcase of the research and education happening at the facility. Connect with faculty, staff, alums and family, enjoy a delicious meal and support AGNR student clubs at the silent auction. 

Our AGNR Graduation Celebration is just around the corner! Don't forget to stop by Symons Hall (Rm 0107) to pick up your AGNR ceremony tickets, enjoy some snacks, take part in our photo/video booth, snap a cap & gown photo, and pick up your gift from the AGNR Alumni Network.

College of Agriculture & Natural Resources' Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremony. The commencement ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21, 2024, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

You will be representing the University of Maryland as we compete against other members of Audubon International. Last year we won International recognition in 2 of the 3 judged categories.  With your help, maybe we can sweep all 3.

We will meet on Saturday, May 4th at 6:30 am at the UMD golf course located at: 3800 Golf Course Road, College Park, MD, 20742.

Once you arrive you will be assigned a group and a starting location. We will give everyone a brief review of the process then send you on your way. Please be on time as we need to be off the course by 9:30 am. Dress in comfortable attire and be prepared to walk.

Our goal is to count as many different living species of plants, insects and animals as possible, in the time allowed.  To do this you will be using the iNaturalist App. It's as simple as taking a photo. If you are not familiar with the App we recommend you download it and check it out in advance.  You can also use the Merlin App to identify birds by their song.

University of Maryland Extension mental health specialist Alexander Chan explores the "Farm State of Mind" during the final Sustainable Food Systems lecture next week on Tuesday, April 23 at 6pm.

University of Maryland is the place to be for Maryland Day 2024! This will be the 99th annual Ag Day and this year we're excited for our very first AGNR Alumni Chill Zone in the Animal Science Courtyard!

Join us on Ag Day Avenue to visit the Campus Farm and take in a livestock show with our students. Drop by the Animal Science courtyard to see our college in full force with clubs, departments, and Extension programs. Grab a plant from the Institute of Applied Agriculture or from the Plant Science Building. McKeldin Mall will feature Maryland 4-H and there's an Extension catfish cooking demo at Hornbake Plaza.

AGNR faculty and staff are invited to the 2024 State of the College and Cornerstone Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, May 8 at 9:00am at the Riggs Alumni Center. The Cornerstone Awards serves to recognize an AGNR faculty or staff member or an external partner in actively promoting awareness of one of the Strategic Initiatives who demonstrates innovation, and provides a model for others in the college.

Attend an event about Accessible Public Spaces and Gardens with Michelle Nelson, Wen Huang, and Chin-Fang Chen from the Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning.

This carefully curated schedule of events is solely dedicated to topics related to sustainability and the role of agriculture in environmental, social, and economic issues, with a heavy emphasis on the food we consume in our everyday lives. The series is part of our strategic initiative, Establish a Healthy Food System and Ensure Global Food and Nutritional Security. This year's theme is Mental and Physical Health.