Maryland DNR expands dead wild bird collection efforts due to bird flu concerns

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is expanding its efforts to collect and dispose of dead wild birds found across the state due to concerns over the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu. The move comes after the virus was detected in seven dead snow geese found in Worcester County and Dorchester […]

Former Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Hagner Mister passes at 90

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Hagner Mister, who served as Maryland’s sixth Secretary of Agriculture from January 2001 to January 2003, passed away on December 30, 2024. He was 90 years old. Prior to his appointment as Secretary, Mister served as the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Deputy Secretary for three years. Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks expressed deep sadness over the passing […]

Governor Moore declares October as Maryland Horse Month

ANNAPOLIS, MD—In recognition of the significant contributions of the equine industry to the state, Governor Wes Moore has declared October as Maryland Horse Month. The month-long celebration will highlight the multifaceted impact of the industry, encompassing economic, recreational, and therapeutic benefits. Throughout October, the Maryland Horse Industry Board, in partnership with industry stakeholders, will showcase various equestrian attractions, events, and […]

Governor Moore declares October as Maryland Apple Month

ANNAPOLIS, MD—In celebration of the fall harvest, Governor Wes Moore has declared October as “Maryland Apple Month.” The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Maryland’s Best program is encouraging residents to support local farmers and enjoy the state’s abundant apple crop by participating in the “Take a Bite of Maryland” promotion. As part of the promotion, a new character, Apple Buddy, has […]

Maryland kicks off Homegrown School Lunch Week

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore has declared that September 30 – October 4 is Maryland Homegrown School Lunch Week. This week is dedicated to promoting local food in schools and introducing students to the importance of healthy and fresh foods. The Maryland Homegrown School Lunch Week is part of the Maryland Farm to School Program, which is run by the Maryland […]

Keep Maryland Beautiful grant applications now being accepted

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Environmental Trust is currently accepting applications for the Keep Maryland Beautiful grant program. The program awards grants to organizations that focus on environmental education and community stewardship. The Keep Maryland Beautiful grant program has a total budget of $327,000 for this year’s grant round and applications are accepted annually. The program is open to nonprofit organizations, land […]

Truck-based mosquito spraying to begin in Parkville area on Wednesday

PARKVILLE, MD—In response to a public health concern over the potential for mosquito-borne diseases, the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA), in cooperation with the Baltimore County Health Department, will expand mosquito control services in areas of Parkville. MDA will conduct ultra-low volume truck-based spraying to control adult mosquitoes on Wednesday, September 4th. The spraying will take place after 7:30 p.m. […]

Farmers in Maryland eligible for drought assistance

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Farmers in parts of Maryland who are facing drought conditions due to a lack of rain over the past summer are eligible for federal assistance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the low-interest loans are available for farmers in Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Howard, Montgomery, and Washington counties. “Maryland’s agricultural industry is one of our top economic drivers and […]