Parker Welch – Maryland Farm Bureau

Author: Parker Welch

How to Sign the Petition to Send SB931/HB1036 to Referendum

Marylanders are speaking up, working to bring SB0931/HB1036 to a statewide referendum.

You can support this effort to give voters a say in whether solar development should be allowed on farmland by signing the petition and dropping it off at one of these secure locations:

Note: The timeline has been moved up and locations are continually being added, consider following Farmers Alliance for Rural Maryland on Facebook for up-to-date info.

How to print and mail your petition:

- Print the Petition Correctly
  - - Print it double-sided (front and back) on ONE sheet of paper. Do not use two separate sheets.
      - PDF for Statewide Referendum is available for download below!
  - - Bill Number: SB931/HB1036
  - - Bill Title: Public Utilities – Generating Stations – Generation and Siting (Renewable Energy Certainty Act)

- Be a Registered Maryland Voter
  - - You must be 18+ and registered in Maryland
      - Verify your registration status

- Use Your Legal Name and Accurate Info
  - - Print your full legal name (First, Middle, Last) exactly as it appears on your voter registration.
  - - Signature must match and be legible.

- Fill Out the Circulator’s Affidavit
  - - Complete the circulator section at the bottom — even if you’re only signing your own petition.

- Return the Petition ON TIME
  - - Mail by May 30th
      - Mail to QACA/FALSTAD, P.O. Box 157, Centreville, MD. 21617
  - - Drop off by June 1st

Signature Sheet 1st and 2nd page Download

Maryland Farm Bureau Advocates for Farmers and Key Legislation in Capitol Hill Meetings

Sept. 22^nd 2023 – Representatives of the Maryland Farm Bureau (MDFB) met with their Members of Congress and staff this week to advocate on behalf of a number of federal bills that will help Maryland farmers – including the 2023 Farm Bill. MDFB members emphasized the importance of policies that empower farmers to produce food efficiently while safeguarding our precious land, waterways, and air quality.

*Maryland’s Senators meet with MDFB members (L to R: Senator Chris Van Hollen, Senator Ben Cardin, MDFB President Wayne Stafford)*

“As Maryland’s largest commercial industry, it’s imperative that our federal representatives understand the issues currently facing Maryland farmers,” said MDFB President Wayne Stafford. “We greatly appreciate our Members of Congress and their staff for listening to the concerns of our members, and we remain optimistic that they will keep our farmers’ needs in mind when supporting legislation, like the 2023 Farm Bill.”

On Thursday afternoon, MDFB met with Maryland Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen. The day prior, MDFB met with staff members from the offices of Congressman David Trone, Congressman Jamie Raskin, Congressman Steny Hoyer, Congressman John Sarbanes, Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger, and Congressman Andy Harris.

*MDFB Member Ian Reike speaks with Alex Chanock from Rep. Trone’s Office | MDFB Members pose in front of Rep. Harris’ office with staffer Travis Trejo*

In addition to their advocacy for the 2023 Farm Bill, MDFB members highlighted several federal bills to significantly benefit Maryland’s farming community. These include:

H.R. 1437 – Black Vulture Relief Act

Introduced in the House by Rep. Rose (R-TN) & Rep. Soto (D-FL)

H.R. 5096, S. 2235 – Healthy Poultry and Indemnification Act

Introduced in the House by Rep. Blunt Rochester (D-DE) & Rep. Alford (R-MO)

Introduced in the Senate by Sen. Coons (D-DE) & Sen. Wicker (R-MS)

H.R. 4708 – H-2 Improvements to Relieve Employers Act

Introduced in the House by Rep. Gonzales (R-TX) & Rep. Cuellar (D-TX)

H.R. 1147, S. 1957 – Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act

Introduced in the House by Rep. Thompson (R-PA) & Rep. Schrier (D-WA)

Introduced in the Senate by Sen. Welsh (D-VT) & Sen. Marshall (R-KS)

H.R. 4721, S. 1706 – Main Street Tax Certainty Act

Introduced in the House by Rep. Smucker (R-PA) & Rep. Cuellar (D-TX)

Introduced in the Senate by Sen. Daines (R-MT)

As discussions surrounding federal appropriation bills continue throughout the year, MDFB is committed to maintaining active engagement through outreach campaigns that emphasize the 2023 Farm Bill’s significance. Both MDFB and the American Farm Bureau Federation unite in their advocacy for the swift passage of the Farm Bill this year, recognizing its importance for the agricultural community. Earlier this year, MDFB joined the Farm Bill for American Families initiative, a multi-state effort to promote the passage of the Farm Bill.

Maryland Farm Bureau Announces New Director of Communications

DAVIDSONVILLE, MD. (August 23, 2023) — Maryland Farm Bureau (MDFB) welcomes Jeb Burchick as its new Director of Communications. Burchick brings extensive experience in communications and media relations to the organization.

A native Marylander, Burchick is an alumnus of Towson University and has served in various roles in government — including Press Secretary for former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and adviser to U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin.

“Growing up, the highlight of every summer was showing my pigs, sheep and goats at the county fair for my local 4-H Club. Being brought up in that environment, I have always held a deep appreciation for America’s farmers and ranchers,” said Burchick. “I’ve had the privilege of being in the front-seat for some of our state’s most important agricultural policy discussions and I’m honored to join the talented team at the Maryland Farm Bureau in order to advocate on behalf of Maryland’s largest industry.”

As Director of Communications for MDFB, Burchick will lead all aspects of external communication including media relations, digital content creation and strategic messaging. He will also oversee internal communications initiatives.

MDFB Executive Director Parker Welch expressed excitement about bringing Burchick on board: “Jeb has a wealth of experience in government and public service that will be invaluable as we work to strengthen our mission here at MDFB. We are confident that he will be an integral part of helping us reach our goals over the coming years.”

# # #

MARYLAND FARM BUREAU®, INC. is a 501(c)(5) federation that serves as the united voice of Maryland farm families. Our organizational strength comes from the active participation of over 9,500 individual and family members who belong to the state’s 23 local county Farm Bureau organizations. Since 1915, Maryland Farm Bureau has been committed to protecting and growing agriculture and preserving rural life. Maryland Farm Bureau is a proud member of the American Farm Bureau® Federation. For more information, visit www.mdfarmbureau.com

MEDIA CONTACT:
Amber Pearson | Maryland Farm Bureau, Inc. (TSN Communications)
573.268.6853 | amber@tsncommunications.com

Summer farm safety tips for kids and teens

The following information is provided by Nationwide®, the #1 farm and ranch insurer in the U.S.*

The end of the school year and beginning of summer break is an exciting time for farm kids. It’s also the start of what should be a time of heightened safety awareness among parents and other adults on the farm as young people help out around the farm.

That’s especially important today — as a challenging farm labor situation may have many farmers enlisting teenagers and even younger family members to work on the farm. Given the increased likelihood of injury or fatality from common farm work among young people, safety should be the top priority whenever youth put on their work gloves.

Farm safety starts with a simple conversation
Preventing conditions that favor injury or worse when youth are working on the farm starts with a simple conversation. When it becomes a regular topic of conversation, safety becomes part of the culture of your farm.

“My son is right there with his dad every step of the way when it comes to taking care of the pigs,” said farmer and Nationwide Risk Management Manager Emily Atwood. “When he sees his dad do something, he thinks that’s something he can do too – but that’s not always the case.”

Atwood knows there are countless farm hazards and considers frequent safety conversations the foundation of smart, attentive behavior in her son, especially when she’s unable to directly supervise him.

“We talk to him regularly about being safe and making good decisions and making sure either mom and dad knows where he’s at and what he’s doing at all times,” Atwood said. “We just want to build that awareness in him, so he thinks twice before he makes a dangerous decision, especially when we’re not there with him.”

Steps to promote a safe working environment
There are steps Atwood and other farmers can take to promote a safe working environment, both before and while youth are helping out on the farm.

•Designate areas where they can and can’t go. Safe areas should be separated from potential hazards like machinery and confined spaces like manure pits. Consider fencing off or locking particularly hazardous areas, like chemical or fuel storage.
•Inspect your farm regularly. Things change on a daily basis on the farm, especially during the busy summer months. Take time to check for any changes in potential hazards as frequently as possible.
•Assign young workers appropriate jobs. Make sure young workers can do their work safely. Train them on any work they’re doing, reminding them often of the necessary safety precautions.
•Store equipment and machinery safely. Remove keys from machinery like tractors, and make sure all hydraulic components are lowered.
•Demonstrate safe habits. Don’t introduce youth to potential hazards like riding along unsecured in machinery, using farm shop tools alone and entering confined spaces.

Visit AgInsightCenter.com for resources and expert tips on trending topics to help you run a successful business and maintain the safety of your operation.

[1] *A.M. Best Market Share Report 2022.

Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual
Insurance Company. © 2023 Nationwide

pires well after
baling. That continued respiration in the presence of oxygen after it’s baled creates conditions that can
cause bales to spontaneously combust. Wet hay that continues to respire can generate heat and
eventually spontaneously combust.
After hay is baled and stored at higher moisture levels, the fire risk from spontaneous combustion is
greatest in the first two to six weeks. And that risk continues if hay bales are stored where moisture can
linger, like a barn with a leaky roof or high–humidity area.
Hay placed in storage should have a moisture content under 25%, according to a report from the
Pennsylvania State University Agriculture and Biological Engineering Department. Higher levels of
moisture require an oxygen limiting storage system. The heat generated by the crop plus the presence
of oxygen increases the risk of a fi

MDFB President Lobbies for Swift Passage of the 2023 Farm Bill

Maryland Farm Bureau President Wayne Stafford traveled to Washington DC last week to lobby for swift passage of the 2023 Farm Bill. He met with Maryland Senators, Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Representatives Andy Harris (1st district) and David Trone (6th district). Rep. Harris is Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development Food and Drug Administration.

His lobby visits to Capitol Hill took place during the annual American Farm Bureau Council of Presidents meeting that took place July 12 and 13. State Farm Bureau Presidents from across the nation heard from USDA Undersecretary for Trade Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation, Robert Bonnie and House Majority Leader, Steve Scalise.

The farm bill impacts all Americans – from food availability and nutrition to jobs and the environment. It is the most significant legislation for farmers and ranchers, protecting their livelihoods and ensuring a safe, nutritious food supply. The farm bill is reauthorized every five years, and the current farm bill is set to expire on September 30, 2023.

President Stafford told Members of Congress that failing to pass a new farm bill would have a serious impact on farming and food security in Maryland and across the United States. He told elective officials that it is essential for Congress to prioritize passage of a new farm bill this year.

Farm Bureau’s overarching priorities include:

· Continuing current farm bill program funding.

· Maintaining a unified farm bill the includes nutrition programs and farm programs together.

· Prioritizing risk management tools that include federal crop insurance and commodity programs.

· Ensuring adequate USDA staffing and resources to provide technical assistance.

Other issued raised by President Stafford during his Congressional visits included the importance of an available and reliable farm labor workforce and concerns about the recent Supreme Court decision that allow one state to impose production standards on commodities grown or harvested outside its borders.

Farm Bill for America’s Families

The Maryland Farm Bureau has joined with twenty national organizations and multiple state agricultural organizations to support prompt passage of the 2023 Farm Bill. The campaign, called “Farm Bill for America’s Families – Sustaining Our Future” is supported by a diverse of group advocates for farmers, food security and nutrition, environment and wildlife.

The purpose of the campaign is to educate and engage a consumer-based audience, including Capitol Hill, about the importance and impact of the farm bill. A recent Morning Consult poll showed that 71% of adults have not seen, read or heard much about the farm bill and 42% have not seen, read or heard anything at all.

The coalition’s advocacy efforts center around three core messages:

RISK MANAGEMENT Managing risk on the farm is critical to keeping food on our tables. We all depend on the success of American agriculture, so it’s important for America’s farmers and ranchers to be supported by strong farm programs as they face weather disasters, high supply costs and inflationary pressures.

NUTRITION PROGRAMS America’s farmers and ranchers supply more than 9 billion meals annually thanks to the farm bill’s nutrition programs which ensure the most vulnerable among us have access to healthy, affordable food.

IMPACT BEYOND THE FARM The farm bill impact extends beyond the farm by protecting our nation’s food supply, providing access to nutrition for low-income families, advancing conservation efforts and spurring innovation through agricultural research.

Organizations wanting to know more about “Farm Bill for America’s Families” or to join the campaign can do so at Farm Bill for America’s Families (farmbillforamericasfamilies.com).

How to prevent ransomware attacks on your farm

The following information is provided by Nationwide®, the #1 farm and ranch insurer in the U.S.*

Farms are growing in size and sophistication. At the same time, ag markets and supply chains are relying more and more on digital systems that can be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Ransomware is one type of attack that can prove particularly costly — but there are ways you can help prevent ransomware attacks.

“Any industry that relies on a complicated supply chain or time–focused requirements to get products to consumers are going to be in the crosshairs for these criminal groups,” says Nationwide Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer, Todd Lukens. “When a farm or company is growing fast, computer security programs can’t keep up. In many ways, ag businesses are perfect targets.”

Ransomware is a type of cyberattack when someone illegally gains access to your computer systems or files, then locks them down until you pay a ransom to restore access. Recovery can take a lot of time and money. Business interruption, recovery, restoring systems and paying the ransom itself are all potential ransomware costs to a farm or agribusiness.

“These attacks have ramifications that last from days to weeks to months. Ransomware gives criminals the potential to make millions in a short amount of time,” adds Lukens. “Farms and agribusinesses are growing targets for these criminals.”

Ways to prevent ransomware attacks on your farm or ag business
The best way to avoid an attack and its financial hit is to practice what Lukens calls “good cyber hygiene.” Keeping computer software up–to–date and ensuring you have security protocols in place on every device can help. Lukens also recommends:

Educating your team on all types of cyberattacks
Making sure no one can access computer systems or files on the internet
Utilizing a virtual private network (VPN) or secure connection for any internet–connected computer or server
Requiring multi–factor authentication for all employees
Creating a backup plan so files and other data are available if you are hit by ransomware or another type of cyberattack

Insurance coverage and protection
There are cyber liability coverages and services to help protect you and your farm or agribusiness from loss from a ransomware or other cyberattack. That protection extends well beyond the attack itself.

“Cyberattack policies and endorsements may include coverage for liabilities associated with a data breach like ransom negotiation and payment,” said Lukens. “Policies can include business interruption loss while systems are down during an attack.”

Lukens recommends educating your farm or agribusiness workforce about cyberattacks like ransomware and how to best protect yourself. This can also help you identify the right coverage options.

“If you live in an area prone to severe storms, would you go without property insurance?” Lukens said. “The more we rely on computer systems to conduct our business, the more impactful they are when they go down. So, we have to protect them.”

Visit AgInsightCenter.com for resources and expert tips on trending topics to help you run a successful
business and maintain the safety of your operation.

[1] *A.M. Best Market Share Report 2022.

Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.
© 2023 Nationwide

MDFB Supports Uniform Labeling for Pesticides

By: Pat Wolff, MDFB senior director of national affairs

Maryland Farm Bureau has joined over 350 organizations to support new federal legislation that would ensure uniformity of labeling standards for pesticides that are backed by sound science and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The bipartisan bill, H.R. 4288, the Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act, was introduced in Congress last week by Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Jim Costa (D-CA).

Farmers depend on pesticides to manage pests and control plant diseases that can destroy crops and threaten a reliable and affordable food supply. If farmers lose access to crop protection tools due to a patchwork of state or local labels, it will not only reduce their ability to protect crops and maintain important conservation practices, but will erode confidence about the safety of science-based EPA-approved products.

Under current law, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) governs pesticide use, sales, and labeling. FIFRA gives the EPA exclusive authority to determine labeling and packaging requirements. Under FIFRA, states have the ability to regulate the sale or use of pesticides; however, they are prohibited from imposing their own labeling requirements that are different from the EPA’s science-based labels.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture enforces federal laws on the sale and use of pesticides, administers Maryland’s Pesticide Applicator’s Law, approves training courses in the handling, storage and use of pesticides, conducts examinations to determine that pesticide applicators are competent to follow prescribed pest control practices, and investigates pesticide accidents or incidents and consumer complaints on pesticide misuse.

Here is Rep. Johnson’s news release about the introduction of the legislation: https://shorturl.at/pvJSX

Maryland Farm Bureau Lobbies Congress on 2023 Farm Bill

Maryland Farm Bureau Lobbies Congress on 2023 Farm BILL

Two Maryland Farm Bureau members petitioned Congress for prompt passage of the 2023 Farm Bill during the American Farm Bureau’s Advocacy Fly-In in Washington DC last week. Joining 150 farmers from across the country were Karl Shlagel of Waldorf and Emmy Dallam of Bel Air.

“It’s crucial that lawmakers hear directly from the people who are affected by farm policy,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “America’s farmers and ranchers are dedicated to growing the food, fuel and fiber families across the nation rely on. We know how important the farm bill is to maintaining a secure and sustainable food supply. I’m confident the personal stories shared by our members will help inspire lawmakers to support and swiftly pass a new farm bill.”

Attendees were informed there are 260 members – more than half of Congress – who have never worked on a farm bill, making personal stories of impact even more important. Farm Bureau members also discussed other pressing issues facing agriculture, including the need for Congress to address agricultural labor reform.

Agriculture Committee leaders spoke before the group fanned out across Capitol Hill. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Penn.) and Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Member John Boozman (R-Ark.) addressed the group. House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member David Scott (D-Ga.) sent a video message. They discussed the challenges they’ll face in getting the farm bill passed this year and urged attendees to speak with as many elected leaders as they can, both in Washington and when members of Congress return home. They stressed the value of personal connections and stories of direct impact, including through the Advocacy Fly-In.

Shlagel and Dallam visited the offices of their Maryland representative and both Maryland senators to tell their farm story and relay the urgency of passing a farm bill this year. They stressed the importance of the farm bill safety net and conservation programs to Maryland agriculture and talked about the need for a reliable agricultural workforce.

Get the most out of raising backyard chickens with these tips

The following information is provided by Nationwide®, the #1 farm and ranch insurer in the U.S.*

Move over cats and dogs; small chicken flocks are rapidly taking over urban, suburban and rural backyards around the country. Raising backyard chickens is becoming more popular for multiple reasons, including as a way to save a few dollars on your family’s grocery bill and provide fun family learning opportunities.

But raising backyard chickens for egg or meat production is more than just a hobby. Every breed has its strengths and weaknesses. Housing, sanitation and protection from predators are all important to consider in how you build your flock. And make sure you’re managing the risks and liabilities raising chickens can create — especially if you’re selling to neighbors.

“Spend time educating yourself about all facets of the species,” according to Nationwide Agribusiness Sales Development Specialist Mekenze Cortum. “Don’t forget to consider safety as well as the educational opportunities for kids and teens in learning to care for the animals.”

What to think about when adding a backyard chicken flock If you’re considering raising chickens in a small flock as a hobby or way to diversify existing small–scale ag production, here are the things you should think about.

Check local ordinances/regulations. Many cities and towns regulate backyard flocks. Check with local officials to see if there are any limitations. For example, some cities may limit the total number allowed, or allow unlimited laying hens but not permit roosters.
Find the right breeds. There’s a variety of chicken breeds with a range of traits. Rhode Island red and Ameraucana chickens, for example, are hardy, do well in small flocks and have easy dispositions. Orpington birds are better suited to cool or cold climates.
Keep your birds housed. Native predators and severe weather can endanger a backyard chicken flock. Provide the right housing to minimize these risks. With many options, make sure the coop design you choose provides three to five square feet of space for each bird.
Limit your flock’s exposure to other birds. Like other birds, chickens are susceptible to transmissible diseases like Avian Influenza and coccidiosis. The less you expose your chickens to other native birds, the lower the chances they’ll contract one of a few common diseases.
Keep it clean. Good sanitation and safe–handling practices are musts for any backyard flock. This minimizes the risk of disease infection as well as any foodborne illness like salmonella that can be passed to humans when consuming infected eggs or meat.
Be careful with electrical and fire safety. Laying hens need regular light and consistent warmth
to produce eggs at their full potential. That means many chicken coops include heaters and lights. Keep heat lamps free of debris and inspect them and other electrical components often to prevent fire risk.

Make sure you’re covered

Raising backyard chickens can be a rewarding experience, whether in rural, suburban or urban setting.
Make sure you’re covered so small risks don’t become big ones, whether through a homeowner’s or
farm insurance policy.

“It’s important for folks to consult with their insurance agent regarding potential liability concerns and coverage considerations for raising backyard chickens,” Cortum said.

Visit AgInsightCenter.com for more resources and expert tips on trending topics to help you run a successful business and maintain the safety of your operation.

*A.M. Best Market Share Report 2021.

Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2022 NationwideWhen harvested at a higher moisture level, a forage crop sometimes stays damp and res