Earlier this week, Governor Larry Hogan announced a new program that will provide direct payments to farmers impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. 
The State’s $10 million initiative will provide assistance to contract poultry growers and eligible farmers. Currently, contract poultry growers are not receiving funds from the USDA’s Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), leaving the state’s top agriculture commodity without significant financial support. Under the new Maryland program, poultry growers are able to receive direct payments of $1,000 per poultry house, up to five houses. The program also builds upon federal relief already issued to other classifications of agricultural producers in the state by giving first round CFAP recipients a potential 15 percent bonus payment.
From the press release:
“I am pleased to announce that we are immediately launching a new $10 million State of Maryland relief program which will provide direct payments to thousands of Maryland farmers, growers, and producers who have been hurt by COVID-19,” said Governor Hogan. “Far too often our farmers don’t get the respect or the appreciation they deserve, but I want our entire agriculture community to know that your commitment to our state and to our agriculture industry does not go unnoticed.”
Useful Links:
MD Department of Agriculture Maryland Farmer COVID-19 Relief Program
