Read more about the article 43,000 Acres and Counting: Washington County’s Preservation Success
Agriculture / County News / Environment / News You Can Use
43,000 Acres and Counting: Washington County’s Preservation Success

Washington County Government has announced the continued success of its longstanding commitment to land preservation. Since the establishment of the County’s land preservation program in 1981, nearly 43,000 acres of rural land have been permanently preserved, representing approximately 14.5% of Washington County’s total land mass. From the county press release: “Preserving land in Washington County is a long-term investment in our community’s future,” said Jill Baker, Director of Planning & Zoning. “These programs protect productive…

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October 2, 2025
Read more about the article Testing Confirms Third Avian Flu Detection in Anne Arundel Backyard Flocks
Agriculture / Health and Human Services
Testing Confirms Third Avian Flu Detection in Anne Arundel Backyard Flocks

Maryland officials have confirmed a presumptive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in an Anne Arundel County backyard flock. The Maryland Department of Agriculture is taking swift action to contain the virus and protect poultry producers statewide. The Maryland Department of Agriculture has confirmed a presumptive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a backyard flock in Anne Arundel County. This is the third detection in the county this year. Samples have been sent…

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September 22, 2025
Read more about the article Paul Ellington Leads USDA Rural Development for MD and DE
Agriculture / Economic Development
Paul Ellington Leads USDA Rural Development for MD and DE

Late last week Paul Ellington was named USDA's State Director for Rural Development in Maryland and Delaware.  Last week, Paul D. Ellington, a long-time advocate and representative of county governments, was named State Director for Rural Development in Maryland and Delaware. A Maryland native, Paul served on the Bowie City Council, as Executive Director of the Maryland Republican Party, and as Chief of Staff to Lt. Governor Michael Steele. Additionally, Paul was the founder of State…

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August 26, 2025
Read more about the article Former MACo Member Mac Middleton Rejoins Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology
Agriculture / County News / Environment / Leadership
Former MACo Member Mac Middleton Rejoins Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology

The Harry R. Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology has welcomed the return of former state Senator Mac Middleton, a farmer and longtime public servant from Charles County, as the Center's Board President.  "I resigned from the Board in order to be the caregiver of my wife, who was diagnosed with cancer. Joanie passed almost a year ago, and when asked to return as president of the Harry Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology, it was a welcome invitation…

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August 7, 2025
Read more about the article USDA Designates Drought Disaster Zones Across MD — Support Available
Agriculture / County News / Emergency Management / News You Can Use
USDA Designates Drought Disaster Zones Across MD — Support Available

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated several Maryland counties as natural disaster areas due to prolonged drought conditions, unlocking emergency assistance for local farmers. Washington, Frederick, and Harford counties received primary disaster designations, making farms in those jurisdictions directly eligible for USDA’s emergency loan programs through the Farm Service Agency (FSA). Additionally, the USDA extended eligibility to adjacent counties, including Allegany, Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Howard, Kent, and Montgomery. This designation provides a critical…

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June 18, 2025
Read more about the article Carroll County Launches Agritourism Passport Program
Agriculture / County News / Economic Development / Environment / Tourism
Carroll County Launches Agritourism Passport Program

Carroll County Economic Development has launched the 2025 Carroll County Agritourism Passport Program! This inaugural passport program is a guide to discovering the best of Carroll County’s agritourism — from local farms and fresh foods to unforgettable seasonal experiences. The program is intended for residents, visitors, children, adults, individuals, or families. The passport encourages exploration, supports local farms, and showcases the region's rich agricultural heritage. There are over 20 participating sites across the county. From…

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June 13, 2025
Read more about the article St Mary’s New Initiative Showcases Local Agriculture, Seafood, and Forestry Products
Agriculture / County News / Economic Development / Environment / News You Can Use
St Mary’s New Initiative Showcases Local Agriculture, Seafood, and Forestry Products

The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County have announced the continued implementation of the Department of Economic Development’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy with the launch of the St. Mary’s County Agriculture and Seafood Brand—a new initiative to showcase and promote locally produced agriculture, seafood, and forestry products. “This brand is more than just a logo—it’s a promise of authenticity and a celebration of our local businesses,” said Chris Kaselemis, Director of the Department of Economic Development.…

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June 12, 2025
Read more about the article Counties Urge Balancing Energy and Conservation
Agriculture / Energy / Environment / MACo Testimony / Planning and Zoning
Counties Urge Balancing Energy and Conservation

On February 13, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic Butchko testified before the Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee in support of SB 34 – Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity – Overhead Transmission Lines – Conservation Easements. This bill places additional considerations and requirements for transmission lines seeking to go on areas under a conservation easement. The 2025 Maryland General Assembly is facing a historic number of complex generational challenges. One of the loudest issues…

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February 18, 2025
Read more about the article Counties Seek Balance on Solar Policy, Propose Collaborative Solutions
Agriculture / Energy / Environment / Planning and Zoning
Counties Seek Balance on Solar Policy, Propose Collaborative Solutions

MACo President Jack Wilson underlines MACo's opposition to HB1036/SB931, citing concerns and offering a path forward. In a letter to Senator Brian Feldman, Chair of the Senate Education, Energy & Environment Committee, and Delegate CT Wilson, Chair of the House Economic Matters Committee, MACo President Jack Wilson and First Vice President MC Keegan-Ayer underline county opposition to HB1036/SB931 and offer potential pathways forward. Since the fall of 2023, MACo has been engaged with the administration,…

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February 17, 2025
Read more about the article Legislative Leadership Launches Major Energy “Package” on Rates, Transmission, and Siting
Agriculture / Energy / Environment / Planning and Zoning / Transportation and Public Works
Legislative Leadership Launches Major Energy “Package” on Rates, Transmission, and Siting

This week, the Senate President and House Speaker joined with multiple co-sponsors and supporters to announce multiple bills, targeting multifold concerns with the energy landscape in Maryland. Three bills have since been introduced: focusing on generation and capacity, transmission and delivery, and clean energy siting. Anticipate much attention on these topics in the weeks ahead. Energy has grabbed the spotlight in Annapolis. Ratepayer and resident concerns over rising electric bills, a tumultuous roll-out of a…

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February 6, 2025
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