Understanding Maryland Department of Environment (MDE) Seed Mixtures and Compliance Requirements
When taking on construction projects in Maryland, it’s essential to understand and comply with the Maryland Department of Environment (MDE) seed mixture guidelines. At Environmental Construction Solutions (ECS), we support contractors, engineers, and project managers with the materials and knowledge needed to stay compliant and environmentally responsible.
What Are MDE Seed Mixtures?
MDE-approved seed mixtures are blends that meet Maryland's environmental standards. They’re designed for erosion control, stormwater management, and habitat restoration—critical areas for projects aiming to stabilize disturbed soil and restore vegetation in compliance with state guidelines.
When Are MDE-Approved Seeds Required?
If your Maryland project disturbs more than 5,000 square feet of land or moves over 100 cubic yards of earth, MDE requires that you use their approved seed mixtures. These mixtures must be listed in your permit and applied to prevent sediment runoff and protect the ecosystem during and after development.
What Is a Source of Supply Letter?
A Source of Supply Letter is official documentation confirming that the seed you plan to use comes from an MDE-approved supplier and meets the required specs. These letters are a critical part of MDE compliance and should be submitted before work begins.
Here’s what you need to know:
When to submit: Before breaking ground on any qualifying project.
Where to send: To your local Soil Conservation District or directly to MDE.
What to include: Supplier info, the specific seed mixture being used, and confirmation of compliance with MDE standards.
Need a hand? Chesapeake Valley Seed (CVS), our sister company under the WS Connelly umbrella, offers pre-made Source of Supply Letters with all the necessary fields and up-to-date MDE-approved seed details. This makes it easy for you to plug in your project info and keep things moving without delay.
Choosing the Right Seed Mix
We understand every job site is different—soil type, slope, sun exposure, and project goals all factor in. That’s why ECS offers a curated selection of MDE-compliant seed options to match your project's specific needs, from temporary stabilization to long-term vegetation.
Complying with MDE regulations doesn’t just check a box—it helps build a better, more sustainable Maryland. ECS is here to make sure your project is ready to meet these standards from the ground up.
You can get a copy of MDE Source of Supply Letters on the Chesapeake Valley Seed website. If you have questions we’d love to help; you can reach out to one of our reps here.
