A new farm through the eyes of its future guardians

At Spice Creek Farm in Prince George’s County, two Bernese Mountain Dog pups, Ruby and Ivy, are finding their footing. As they walk through fields of garlic, cabbage, and leafy greens with their owner D’Real Graham, they’re also preparing for an important job: protecting the poultry that will soon roam this land.

D’Real recently moved to Maryland to establish Spice Creek Farm after growing food on an urban farm in Washington, D.C. Now, he’s growing not just fresh food, but a deeper connection between agriculture and the community. The farm provides produce for retail and wholesale markets, while also dedicating a portion to food-insecure families and students eager to learn about farming.

For D’Real, that connection is what farming is all about.

“Hopefully, if one person ten years from now hears of Spice Creek, it will motivate them to pick up a farm tool and see what they can also make possible with agriculture,” he says. #MemberSpotlight

A bill is being heard in Annapolis on Friday that puts our state’s finite farmland at risk. HB1036/SB931 would allow state government to override local or county zoning laws to approve solar energy projects. 

This bill threatens to take prime farmland out production and undermine local authority over solar projects.

Maryland is already losing thousands of acres of farmland each year, and this heavy handed legislation has the chance to take even more out of production. For its negative impact to agriculture, we will be in Annapolis to fighting against this bill. But we need your help.

Consider testifying, either in-person or written, in opposition to this bill. We’ve included a tutorial below so you can make your voice heard to policymakers in Annapolis. To submit testimony on this bill, it must be done on Wednesday, February 26th from 8AM to 6PM.

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Here’s how to sign-up to testify on legislation in Annapolis:

• Create a MyMGA account on the MGA website
  • Confirm your email
• On your MyMGA homepage, you can select “Witness Signup” on the left toolbar and sort by relevant committees
  • If you do not see the toolbar on the left, witness signup can also be accessed by clicking the MyMGA logo in the top right corner.

• IMPORTANT NOTE: There is a slim time window where you can sign up for testimony, 2 business days before your respective bill’s hearing, from 8 AM to 6 PM
  • For example, if you would like to testify at the SB0931/HB1036 hearing taking place on Friday, you would need to sign up on Wednesday from 8 AM to 6 PM.
• During your bill’s respective sign-up window, you will have an opportunity to sign up to testify, stating your position and method of testifying via the drop-down menu.

• If you choose written testimony, upload a PDF file of your writing in the “Upload Files” section
  • If you plan on testifying in-person, we highly recommend you chose “In-Person – Both” and upload your remarks as well, as sometimes positions to testify orally can be limited.
• Once you are done uploading, make sure the box next your bill is clicked and hit “save” at the top of the witness sign up page
• You’re done! Get ready for your bill’s hearing in two business days.

If testifying in-person, arrive early on the day of the hearing to allow ample time for parking, getting through security, and navigating to the committee room.

Still having trouble? MyMGA has helpful tutorials to set up an account and how to register to testify.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Maryland farmers came together in Annapolis this week to celebrate the state’s agricultural industry and engage with lawmakers on key policy issues. The week’s events culminated with the Maryland Senate unanimously passing a resolution honoring the Maryland Farm Bureau (MDFB) and recognizing the vital role of agriculture in the state’s economy. Introduced by Senator Jason Gallion, the resolution was accepted by MDFB President Jamie Raley and Delmarva Chicken Association President Mary Lou Brown.

“I like to remind everybody that our number one industry in the State of Maryland is agriculture,” said Senator Gallion in his remarks. “We thank all the hard work done by farmers in the State of Maryland on a daily basis.”

On Wednesday, nearly 100 farmers and more than 30 legislators participated in Maryland Farm Bureau’s Day in Annapolis, an annual event that provides farmers with the opportunity to stay informed on legislative issues and meet with their elected representatives. As the largest agricultural trade organization in the state, MDFB is committed to work with the legislature to strengthen and grow agriculture in Maryland.

MDFB supports the following bills introduced this legislative session for their positive impact on Maryland agriculture:

• HB225/SB203: Vehicle Laws – Exceptional Hauling Permits for Farm Products
• HB262/SB240: Department of Agriculture – Maryland Agricultural Commission and Young Farmers
• HB42/SB134: Solid Waste Disposal Surcharge and Wasted Food Reduction and Diversion Fund and Grant Programs – Established
• SB481: On-Farm Home Processing License – Revenue Limit – Prohibition
• HB631/SB189: Eminent Domain – Agricultural and Conservation Easements – Prohibited Taking
• HB278: Income Tax – Subtraction Modification – Enhanced Agricultural Management Equipment
• HB766: Wildlife Advisory Commission – Membership – Alterations
• HB483: Income Tax Credit – Venison Donation – Alterations
• HB650/SB563: Maryland Fair and Agricultural Education Promise Fund – Establishment

Earlier in the week, the Maryland House of Delegates also recognized the industry’s contributions by passing a resolution in support of Maryland agriculture. MDFB members Far Nasir of the Delmarva Chicken Association and Lindsay Thompson of the Maryland Grain Producers accepted the resolution on behalf of the agricultural community.

The week’s celebrations will conclude tonight with the Taste of Maryland Agriculture event, hosted by the Maryland Ag Council, where MDFB members will join lawmakers in showcasing the best of Maryland’s farm products.

Written by Tyler Hough
Originally published in the 2024 Fall/Winter Edition of The Old Line Farmer

Agricultural education was recently identified as a top 3 policy priority for our Maryland Farm Bureau members, voted upon by the delegates at our annual convention. Let’s take a look at the progress of ag education in Maryland, what MDFB supports, and how our grassroots members are taking the initiative to promote agriculture to the next generation.

The Status of Ag Education in Maryland

This summer, the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) hosted their very first Agricultural Education Summit in Anne Arundel County. Maryland Farm Bureau was proud to sponsor this important program. Many teachers and stakeholders spoke about their experiences and it became clear that there is a renewed push for getting students involved in farming.

“The future of agriculture lies with our youth and the best way to reach them about the importance of all things agriculture is through education,” said MDA Secretary Kevin Atticks.

MDFB Director of Government Relations Tyler Hough and a panel of teachers speak at MDA’s first-ever Ag Education Summit at Southern High School

Towards the end of the conference, the Secretary also mentioned that an establishment of an office for agricultural education within the state government could be considered to put an emphasis on agriculture in public school curricula.

The Maryland Farm Bureau also presented at the summit on how properly supported education programs benefit not only students, but farmers and farm businesses. The future of agriculture relies on talented future leaders and workforce development. You don’t have to look much further than the successes of Future Farmers of America (FFA), 4H, and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) alumni in the workforce.

Maryland Farm Bureau Policy on Agricultural Education

It’s clear that the future of farming in Maryland depends on prioritizing and investing in agricultural-related Career Technical Education opportunities. However, inconsistencies from county to county and a lack of a statewide agricultural education curriculum has left many interested students with little to no education on agriculture.

Maryland Farm Bureau supports the inclusion and expansion of agricultural education programs at all school levels and urges the implementation of certified/accredited agricultural curriculums in public high schools.

During the 2024 Legislative Session, the Maryland Farm Bureau proudly supported SB1035: the Focusing Federal Career and Technical Education Act Funds on Blueprint School-to-Work Apprenticeship Goals Act. This bill aimed to establish a start date for administering the federal Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, which includes agricultural education and FFA. While the bill successfully passed in the Maryland Senate, it unfortunately did not advance in the House of Delegates. We remain committed to expanding agricultural education in our state and will continue urging our state representatives to prioritize this important issue.

Grassroots Leading the Charge

Thanks to the dedication of our incredible grassroots members, many Maryland farmers are addressing the issue of agricultural education and literacy head-on. 

“Our members are the most powerful and influential voice to engage in ag education at the local level in our counties,” says Barb Glenn, Chair of MDFB’s Agriculture Education and Extension Committee. “All education decisions rest with local school systems.”

2024 MDFB Ag Ambassadors Sarah Beale and Hunter Johnson speak with elementary school students during Ag Literacy Week

During Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation’s (MAEF) Ag Literacy Week, several members, including our 2024 Maryland Farm Bureau Ag Ambassadors, Sarah Beale and Hunter Johnson, visited local elementary schools to read farming-related children’s books to eager young students.

“The students demonstrated a very enthusiastic interest in agriculture immediately upon reading the book,” said Sarah Beale. “I could see their curiosity in agriculture spike just as it did for me when I was their age.”

The future of ag education in Maryland holds immense potential, but it requires continued effort and collaboration from all stakeholders. The commitment shown by educators, policymakers, and especially our grassroots members, highlights the importance of fostering an understanding and appreciation of agriculture among the next generation. As we look forward, Maryland Farm Bureau will remain steadfast in its advocacy for agricultural education, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to explore and contribute to the vibrant world of farming.

SAN ANTONIO, TX: Alan and Rachel Eck, farmers from Queen Anne’s County, Maryland, secured 4th place in the prestigious Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Convention in San Antonio, Texas. Competing against young farmers from across the country, their fourth place finish establishes them as one of the top young farmers in America.

Rachel and Alan Eck Accept Achievement in Agriculture from American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall

The Ecks operate a diverse farm in Queen Anne’s County, where they produce grain, broiler chickens, hogs, and hydroponic vegetables. Given their proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, they have been long practitioners of sustainable and precision agriculture practices that protect the environment while enhancing productivity. The Ecks serve on the Maryland Farm Bureau Board of Directors and are longtime members of Farm Bureau and the Maryland Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee.

Alan poses with his son Easton and wife Rachel at their hydroponic farm operation

The Achievement Award recognizes young farmers and ranchers who have excelled in their farming or ranching operations and exhibited superior leadership abilities. Participants are evaluated on a combination of their agricultural operation’s growth and financial progress, Farm Bureau leadership and leadership outside of Farm Bureau. Video from the awards ceremony can be found here.

Renee Wilson competes in AFBF’s Discussion Meet

Additionally, Renee Wilson, a young farmer from Baltimore County, advanced to the “Sweet 16” in the American Farm Bureau’s Discussion Meet, placing her among the top participants nationwide. The Discussion Meet replicates a committee meeting, encouraging active dialogue on agricultural policy. Participants are judged on their ability to exchange ideas and present thoughtful solutions on preselected topics.

Written by Jeb Burchick
Originally published in the 2024 Fall/Winter Edition of The Old Line Farmer

In the summer of 1964, Farm News, the then Maryland Farm Bureau magazine, featured an interview with the popular Schmidt family farm in Pasadena. The owner of the farm, Henry Schmidt, was a former president of the Anne Arundel County Farm Bureau. After some struggles in the late ’70s, the Schmidts counted their losses and moved out of large-scale production agriculture. Now, some 60 years after the article’s publication, granddaughter Heather and her husband Nick have revitalized and reopened the family farm into a thriving small produce operation. Glenn, Henry’s son and Heather’s father, who was featured in the 1964 article as a young boy, couldn’t be more thrilled.

The Background

Amidst the suburban sprawl of Anne Arundel County sits a small rural enclave that was once home to a popular roadside produce stand. The Schmidt family has owned this 138-acre property in Pasadena for over a hundred years, since 1920. Like many farms in southern Maryland, they grew tobacco and various fresh produce items. Glenn Schmidt fondly remembers those days growing up on the farm.

“My dad had us on a tobacco planter at nine years old,” said Glenn. “Me, my sister, and two other guys on the back of a tractor.”

As noted in the 1964 Farm News article, quality and customer service were always of the utmost importance: “Before an ear [of corn] goes up on the stand for sale, it is checked for maturity by using a sharp knife to cut and peel the husk back slightly. Any defective ears are discarded.”

After some struggles in the late ’70s, the family slowly moved their farm out of production. Henry then moved to the Eastern Shore, but extended family has always lived on the property through the years.

The Reopening

Heather Schmidt, Henry’s granddaughter, and her husband, Nick Hovaker, returned to live on the original Schmidt property after spending time in Delaware. Heather and Nick have always enjoyed gardening, but when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, they found themselves with much more time on their hands. Thus began the expansion and reopening of the Schmidt family farm business.

Still a small operation with goals to grow and expand, the Schmidts make their sales directly to consumers, with most business happening at their primary jobs or advertised on social media. The family prides themselves on making use of everything on the farm, saving unsold produce for jams, pickling, or even themselves!

“If it’s about to expire, either we’ll eat it or it gets recomposted,” declares Nick.

The Challenges and Benefits

Reopening a renowned family farm isn’t the easiest task. The expected growing pains of a new operation have slow-rolled goals to expand.

“It’s a slow going process because everything is done by hand,” says Heather. “We do minimal till, no spray, and no insecticides with a goal to build up our soil quality since it hasn’t been grown on in a long time.”

Like many farms in suburban areas, wildlife damage has been a significant concern for the Schmidts. Deer, pushed from suburban development into their wooded property, have resulted in profits being eaten up by hungry animals.

“Last year, our green beans were a huge seller,” remarked Heather. “This year we’ve barely had enough green beans for even just our own family.”

However, advancements in agricultural techniques and science since the first iteration of the farm have proven beneficial for the new operation. Looking at changes from the farm’s early days to today show positive development in productivity.

“They’re growing a lot of stuff in a smaller area,” says Glenn. “They’re growing as many tomatoes as we used to on just a couple of small plots.”

Another benefit to the Schmidts is a community of farmers with membership in the Maryland Farm Bureau. As relatively new members to our organization, the Schimdts are again following in family tradition, with their grandfather being a former Anne Arundel County Farm Bureau President.

The Joy

Despite the inherent challenges of growing a small farm, it’s still a labor of love for Heather and Nick. And for Glenn, it’s a sentimental reminder of the large operation that once was. “I love to see the farm keep going.”

When asked what brings joy about being on the farm, Nick remarks that seeing his plants grow throughout the season from small seeds to budding fruits is quite a remarkable sight. Furthermore, when customers report back that they love their produce and can’t wait for more, it’s hard not to smile.

The farm also has the added benefit of supplying delicious produce for the family. Glenn, a self-described “tomato-eating machine,” is especially happy.

“Store-bought tomatoes just plain suck,” Glenn says with a laugh. “They just don’t have the same flavor.”

Heather and Nick’s dedication, combined with their family’s experience and support, has revitalized and breathed new life into this cherished plot of land in Pasadena. As they continue to navigate the challenges and joys of farming, the Schmidts are living proof that it’s never too late to come back to your roots.

To read the original Farm News article about the Schmidts, visit mdfarmbureau.com/1964MDFBFarmNews

By Tyler Hough, Director of Government Relations for Maryland Farm Bureau

Today marks the first day of the 2025 Maryland General Assembly, which will run through early April. This 90-day session is when legislators from across the state convene in Annapolis to introduce, amend, and debate bills. As the largest agricultural trade organization in the state, Maryland Farm Bureau will be there all session long to advocate for our farmers in these discussions.

Each year, thousands of bills are filed, but only a fraction of those will make it to the floor of the state house. Most bills concerning agriculture are likely to go through either the House of Delegates Environment and Transportation Committee (E&T) or the Senate’s Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee (EEE). It’s helpful to follow the proceedings of these committees to understand what bills may come to the floor.

At the 2024 Maryland Farm Bureau Convention, our members voted on their top policy priorities for the upcoming year. Those priorities were private property rights, solar energy siting, and agricultural education. While we will be paying attention to any bills that could affect agriculture, we will be sure to notify and inform our members if any bills move relating to those areas.

Our staff and relevant stakeholders will be in Annapolis advocating for our farmers. But there are ways you can help, too! First, find out who represents you in the State House. Stay in regular communication with your representatives and urge them to prioritize our farms in their policy-making decisions.

Next, consider attending our Day in Annapolis on Wednesday, February 5th. It’s a great opportunity to gather with fellow farmers and speak directly with legislators on the issues that matter most to you.

Lastly, stay up-to-date with our communications including our legislative newsletter: the Hotline, our weekly E-Newsletter, social media pages, and more. Watch out for periodic action alerts on our website, where you can message your legislators with just one click. As always, stay in touch with your county Farm Bureau and local leadership, too.

As you know, farmers are busy and they can’t always be monitoring legal proceedings and bill processes. But that’s where your membership in the Maryland Farm Bureau comes in! Our team, bolstered by our grassroots members, are working hard to support our state’s agricultural industry. Rest assured, while you’re on the farm working hard to feed and fuel our communities, we are engaged in the policy discussions that will let you keep farming.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

With gratitude,

Tyler Hough

DAVIDSONVILLE, Md. – Today, Maryland Farm Bureau announced the availability of five $2,000 scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year, totaling $10,000 to support the educational pursuits of the next generation of Maryland farmers.

To be eligible for consideration, applicants or their parents/guardians must become members of the Maryland Farm Bureau or already be members. Applicants may be current high school seniors starting their college journey in Fall 2025 or already enrolled as full-time students at an accredited community college or four-year institution.

The breakdown of the scholarships is as follows:

• Three scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing academic degrees in food, agriculture, and/or natural resources disciplines.
• Two scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing degrees in other academic disciplines or who are pursuing minors in food, agriculture, and/or natural resources disciplines.

Applicants must submit their scholarship applications by Friday, March 21st, 2025 at 4:00 PM EST. A confirmation email will be sent upon receipt of the application. The selection committee reserves the right to conduct interviews if deemed necessary for the final selection.

Scholarships will be presented to the selected applicants in conjunction with high school graduation programs or before the commencement of the fall semester.

Family members of Maryland Farm Bureau Board of Directors or staff are ineligible to participate in the scholarship program. For more information and to access the application, please visit our website. Contact Kara Hutchison at khutchison@marylandfb.org for questions relating to the program.