Earlier this week, Governor Hogan proclaimed July 17 – 25 is “Maryland Buy Local Week.” This annual event seeks to support Maryland farms and seafood, while increasing the appreciation residents have for fresh, local products.

Marylanders are encouraged to visit MarylandsBest.net to be connected with fresh produce, meat products, farm-made ice cream, and craft beverages across the state. The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s marketing program, Maryland’s Best, will also share a series of recipe videos from local chefs throughout the week that highlight the state’s outstanding culinary culture.

“We are fortunate to live in a state that produces world-class agricultural and seafood products, and I encourage all Marylanders to join the First Lady and I in choosing Maryland-made ingredients,” said Governor Hogan. “Buying local puts more money back into the pockets of our farmers, watermen, and producers, allowing them to grow their operations, hire more people, support other local businesses, and reinvest in their communities.”

First Lady Yumi Hogan joined in celebrating “Maryland Buy Local Week” by featuring pan-fried rockfish cakes on a recent episode of her YouTube culinary series “Yumi Cooks!” County governments and local elected officials are encouraged to participate by featuring places in their communities where residents can buy local and to use the hashtag #BuyLocalCookout.

The Buy Local Challenge, created in 2006 by the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission, has grown into a statewide initiative that has continued to expand. Maryland’s agriculture and seafood industries contribute more than $16 billion to the state’s economy and account for more than 68,000 jobs, according to a 2018 study from BEACON at Salisbury University. Nearly 1,350 Maryland farmers sell directly to consumers, generating over $54 million in sales annually, according to the 2017 Census of Agriculture.

To learn more about the benefits of buying locally, please click here.