Agriculture is constantly changing and Harford County’s upcoming Agriculture Symposium promises a snapshot of the issues shaping county agriculture right now.

Set for May 9, the county’s 2026 symposium titled “Rooted in Change,” will bring together farmers, agricultural professionals, and community members for a day of discussion around some of the biggest issues facing local agriculture today.

And while the event is local, the themes are anything but. From emerging farm technology to business diversification and farmland preservation, the symposium reflects the broader conversations many counties are having as they work to support agriculture in a changing economy.

Harford County’s breakout sessions point to four key areas that continue to shape agriculture at the local level:

1. Technology in Agriculture

As producers face labor pressures, rising costs, and tighter margins, technology is becoming an increasingly important part of farm operations. Harford’s session on innovation in the field will explore how tools and emerging practices are changing the way agriculture works on the ground.

2. Farm Business Diversification

For many operations, long-term viability depends on more than traditional production alone. A session focused on value-added strategies will examine ways producers can expand revenue streams and adapt to changing markets.

3. Leadership and Opportunity in Agriculture

Counties are also paying closer attention to who is shaping the future of agriculture. Harford’s women in agriculture panel highlights the growing role of leadership networks, mentorship, and visibility in sustaining the next generation of producers and agricultural professionals.

4. Farmland Preservation

Preserving working lands remains a core issue for counties balancing growth, development pressure, and long-term agricultural sustainability. Harford’s symposium will also focus on stewardship and tools to help protect farmland for the future.

The Wider County Picture

Agriculture remains a major economic driver and land use priority in many Maryland counties. But the challenges facing the sector are evolving.

County governments are increasingly part of conversations around:

• land preservation
• economic development
• agricultural innovation
• local food systems
• workforce and business sustainability

Events like this one offer more than networking, they reflect where local agriculture policy and planning conversations are headed.

Event Details

Harford County’s 2026 Agriculture Symposium, “Rooted in Change,” will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at North Harford High School. The event includes breakfast, lunch, breakout sessions, live demonstrations, and a vendor fair. Registration is required by April 30.

More information and registration are available through Harford County.