So far, this internship experience has given me valuable insight into many agricultural technologies and sustainable practices used in Maryland agriculture. I’ve had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience by helping manage two herds—16 sheep and 10 beef cattle. These animals are part of a research project and are managed on a rotational grazing system using both annual and perennial grasses. This has required me to work with and learn directly from my mentors, Amanda, Brittany, Jeff and co-intern, Nina about a variety of grazing management practices and skills.
One management practice I’ve learned is how to set up sections of pasture for rotational and strip grazing using temporary fencing. Another important skill I’ve developed is learning how to determine when it's time to rotate animals. This decision is typically based on the amount and height of the grass, as well as observing the animals’ behavior. These experiences are helping me better understand the role of pasture conditions and forage utilization in livestock systems.
I have also had the opportunity to apply what I’ve learned at the research center to real-life production systems through attending two pasture walks (one focused on equine systems) and three farm visits. Each of these was centered around the producers' unique grazing practices. What impressed me most during these pasture walks was the collaboration and exchange of knowledge. I watched as hosts received helpful advice not only from Extension agents and specialists, but also from other farmers in attendance. It was amazing to see farmers openly share what has and has not worked for them and offer suggestions to help others succeed.
In addition to livestock and pasture work, I’ve had the chance to explore agricultural technology advancements in Washington County. I joined Extension agents, specialists, Maryland Department of Agriculture, Secretary Attick, and others on a tour of three Washington County farms. The first stop was Creek Bound Farms, where I saw precision spraying with a drone and an 11-bin grain system in action. Next, we visited Misty Meadow Farm Creamery, where a robotic milking system is used to produce cream-line milk and homemade ice cream. Lastly, we toured Ernst Grain & Livestock, which produces Non-GMO grains that are planted, harvested, cleaned, stored, milled, packaged, and distributed completely on-site. This tour broadened my understanding of the diversity and innovation present in Washington County agriculture.
My background in raising livestock and understanding good livestock management practices has provided a strong foundation for this internship. I’ve been able to connect classroom knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. One of my main goals for this internship is to improve my ability to evaluate pasture conditions and actively contribute to conversations around grazing strategies. This internship so far has shown me how Extension works with producers to solve real-world challenges, and I hope to develop the skill set and knowledge to help do so. It also has opened my eyes to new technologies that have been a huge asset to local farms. I am excited to see what else I can learn and how I can continue to grow through this experience.
This photo demonstrates a time I have had to use livestock management. Here, I flipped one of the ewes here at the research center her rump so we were able to trim her hooves. In the photo with me is Brittany, the Maryland Extension Ruminant Livestock Specialist, who is trimming the hooves while I am holding the ewe.
This is a photo from the pasture walk with the G7 group at Clear Spring Creamery. Pictured is some of her Jerseys happily grazing on a pasture she had just rotated in to. The group walked to a few different pastures on the property to give her advice on management strategies.
This photo is from the tour of Washington County at our first stop, Creek Bound Farm. Here they demonstrated one way they have used their drone technology by performing a live demonstration of using the drone to spread slug bait.
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