{"id":1781,"date":"2010-03-26T13:12:39","date_gmt":"2010-03-26T13:12:39","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/mda\/?p=1781"},"modified":"2012-10-03T13:13:49","modified_gmt":"2012-10-03T13:13:49","slug":"march-2010","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/mda\/mda-newsletter\/2010\/03\/26\/march-2010\/","title":{"rendered":"March 2010"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\"Smart,Maryland Department of Agriculture\u00a0News<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u00a0 Celebrating Maryland\u00a0Agriculture<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nMarch 2010\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
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In This Issue<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Governor’s Ag Forum<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Snow Storm Recovery<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Md. Equine Census<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
National Ag Week<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Garden Planning Tips<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Great Pumpkin Weigh-off<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Legislative Update<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dishing Up Maryland<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cabbage Contest<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
People Profile<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Featured Recipe<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n
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\u00a0Secretary’s Corner<\/div>\n

\"Earl<\/p>\n

The month of March they say comes in like a lion and out like a lamb. Hopefully we’ve dodged the bullet on the lion part of that saying, especially after the weather we endured in February.\u00a0 If anyone needs information on financial and technical assistance resources available to help recover from damage sustained in the snow storms, please visit MDA’s website at www.mda.state.md.us<\/a>.\u00a0 The most recent update to that information is that Environment Secretary Shari T. Wilson has extended the deadline to burn storm-related debris to April 18.\u00a0 I strongly encourage anyone who needs to burn storm-related debris to review the guidelines<\/a> at the link above, get the necessary permit and get the work done because the deadline will not be extended again.<\/p>\n

During the first week of March, we honored the hard work of our Weights and Measure’s staff to maintain fairness in the marketplace with a promotion of Weights and Measure’s week<\/a>, March 1-7.\u00a0 March also brings National Agriculture Week, which is March 14-20<\/a> this year. Governor Martin O’Malley and the Maryland Department of Agriculture highlight the week as a way to recognize the hard work of our farm families and the important role they play in providing a safe and abundant food supply and protecting our environment.\u00a0 Together, we are committed to keeping our state smart, green and growing<\/a> by sustaining the beauty of our countryside, the health of our soil and water, the strength of our economy, and the safety of our food, as well as meeting the energy needs of our shared future.<\/p>\n

We suggest seven ways – one for each day – to celebrate National Agriculture Week<\/a> and to recognize the accomplishments and uniqueness of agriculture in each area of our State.\u00a0 From the mountains of Western Maryland with its dairy farms, maple syrup and hay, Central Maryland with its greenhouse, fresh market vegetables, livestock and equine industries, to the Eastern Shore’s thousands of acres of corn and soybeans, poultry and nursery businesses. Maryland truly grows something for everyone.<\/p>\n

Just last week Governor O’Malley<\/a> went to Washington to present a number of agricultural priorities to Maryland’s Congressional delegation.\u00a0 Hosted by Senator Barbara Mikulski<\/a>, Chair of the Delegation, the members heard a number of priorities for Maryland farmers <\/a>including funding for conservation priorities such as an $8 million cover crop request and a $5 million request to replace the aging Eastern Shore Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory.<\/p>\n

We greatly appreciate Governor O’Malley’s support and willingness to bring before the Congressional Delegation the issues that are of greatest importance to the agricultural community for funding.\u00a0 These requests are critical not only to farmers but also to the health of our economy, environment and all citizens in the State. In these difficult economic times, we need this additional funding to continue important programs and to position ourselves strongly for the time when the economy recovers.<\/p>\n

While the federal delegation considers these appropriation requests, MDA is working hard in the legislature to see that the agriculture industry and related sectors fare well.\u00a0 At the same time, we continue to encourage Marylanders to buy local food products<\/a>, grow a backyard kitchen garden along with the University of Maryland’s Master Gardeners<\/a>, reduce stormwater runoff, and to join the USDA in its Know your Farmer, Know your Food<\/a> effort announcements. And you will soon see the report from the Governor’s Agriculture Forum outlining the recommendations for the future of agriculture.<\/p>\n

Thank you,
\nBuddy Hance<\/a>
\nSecretary<\/a><\/p>\n

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\n\"Lt.Governor’s Forum Outlines Plan for Future of Agriculture<\/strong><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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Lt. Governor Anthony G. Brown, Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance, and the Maryland Agricultural Commission joined approximately 200 representatives of the agricultural industry and other stakeholders on February 19 for the Governor’s 2010 Agricultural Forum<\/a>. The purpose of the strategic planning event, held at the Doubletree Hotel in Annapolis, was to lay out a 15-year plan that addresses short and long term issues, and develops recommendations for an action strategy to enhance the future of Maryland agriculture.<\/p>\n

More than 260 people responded to a survey, which served as a baseline for the Forum and identified the challenges and opportunities agriculture will be facing in the next 15 years.\u00a0 According to the survey, the most important issue for all survey respondents is environmental regulations in the Chesapeake Bay region negatively affecting production costs and profitability of agricultural enterprises. Other top priority issues included: local regulations and regulatory costs, continued development resulting in loss of farmland, high land costs decreasing number of young farmers, water access and uncertainty of zoning and environmental regulatory requirements negatively impacting farmers’ ability to secure loans for their enterprises.<\/p>\n

Click here<\/a> for more information, including forum presentations and survey results.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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\nStorm Recovery Resources Available<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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The record snowfall from last month’s storms has caused a significant impact on Maryland’s agricultural operations. It resulted in collapsed barns and greenhouses, loss of poultry and livestock, nursery crop loss and flooded fields.<\/p>\n

The Maryland Department of Agriculture along with state and federal agency partners have worked to identify damage\u00a0 caused by the snow storms and respond to needs that the agriculture community may have in order to clean up, recover and rebuild from storm-related damage.\u00a0 The goal is to help producers get back in full operation and\/or recover losses as quickly as possible. To that end, we have compiled a list of resources<\/a> that are available to producers depending upon specific situations.<\/p>\n

The resources include information about indemnity programs, emergency grants and loans, instructions for emergency burning permits, information on disposal of poultry and livestock mortality and information about rebuilding and rebuilding in more energy efficient ways as well as cash incentives for energy projects. Click here<\/a> for the list.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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\n2010 Maryland Equine Census<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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Beginning in April, the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will mail out more than 21,000 forms to equine owners and stable operators to collect information on Maryland’s equine industry for the 2009 calendar year.\u00a0 Completed forms are due by June 1.\u00a0 The Maryland Horse Industry Board (MHIB) has commissioned the NASS to conduct the census, which will be the second count in Maryland of all breeds regardless of ownership or use.<\/p>\n

The census is the only reliable measure of the size and economic impact of the industry for public and private decision making process. Anyone who receives an equine census questionnaire in the mail should complete the form and return it promptly.\u00a0 Anyone involved in equine activities who does not receive a questionnaire by May 1 should call the 1-800-675-0295 (toll free) to request a questionnaire.<\/p>\n

For more information about the Maryland Field Office of USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service or the 2010 Maryland Equine Census, visit: www.marylandhorseindustry.org\/census.shtml<\/a> or www.nass.usda.gov\/md<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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\n\"ag MDA Celebrates National Ag Week
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Did you know that most of life’s necessities – food, fiber, clothing and shelter – start with agriculture?\u00a0 Recognizing that agriculture is one of Maryland’s most important industries, the Maryland Department of Agriculture is celebrating National Agriculture Week March 14-20, 2010. The week culminates on National Ag Day,<\/a> which coincides with the first day of spring.<\/p>\n

National Agriculture Week<\/a> provides an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments and uniqueness of agriculture in each area of the State.\u00a0 From the mountains of Western Maryland with its dairy farms, maple syrup and hay, Central Maryland with its greenhouse, fresh market vegetables, livestock and equine industries, to the Eastern Shore’s thousands of acres of corn and soybeans, poultry and nursery sectors Maryland truly grows something for everyone.<\/p>\n

Click here<\/a> for seven ways Marylanders can celebrate Maryland Agriculture during National Agriculture Week.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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\n\"two Maryland Farmers Offer Garden Planning Checklist, Tips
\n<\/strong><\/strong><\/span><\/span>Spring is almost here and now is the time to plan for your gardens. Maryland farmers have initiated a homeowner education campaign,\u00a0 “Take it from Maryland Farmers: Backyard Actions for a Cleaner Chesapeake Bay”<\/a> to help gardeners by offering tips and online resources. <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

The campaign highlights the importance of garden planning for stronger, healthier gardens and lawns in the upcoming growing season and a cleaner Chesapeake Bay. Additional topics include the wise use of fertilizers, trying pesticide alternatives and composting, controlling soil erosion and rainwater runoff, and conserving water. Click here<\/a> to learn more.<\/p>\n

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\n\"World Md. Great Pumpkin Weigh-off<\/strong>
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As you plan your garden this spring, be sure to plant some giant pumpkin seeds and join in the fun of the Great Maryland Pumpkin Weigh-off officiated by MDA’s Weights and Measures Section in Annapolis.\u00a0 The only real rule in this contest is that the pumpkin has to be grown in Maryland by the person entering the contest.\u00a0 Farmers, backyard gardeners, and anyone else growing pumpkins is welcome. More details coming soon.<\/p>\n

The current record for Maryland was set in 2008 with a 713.5 pound giant pumpkin grown by Anthony Watson from Kensington. Montgomery County is the number one pumpkin-growing county in the state. In 2007, Maryland farmers produced 14.8 million pounds of pumpkins on 2,000 acres valued at over $5 million.<\/p>\n

Photo: 2009 World Record 1,725 pound pumpkin – Christy & Nick Harp
\n(Courtesy of GreatPumpkinCommonwealth.com<\/a>)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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\n\"Annapolis 2010 Legislative Update
\n<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
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The 2010 General Assembly session has been busy for
\nagriculture.\u00a0 The Maryland Department of Agriculture has 11 departmental bills<\/a> in various stages of play. Most have met with little to no opposition
\nand eight have passed the originating houses.\u00a0 For the benefit of the
\nagricultural community as a whole, MDA is also monitoring several bills
\nthat address estate taxes, net energy metering and deer hunting.<\/div>\n
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The budget situation has created interesting challenges this session and it is difficult to support bills with any fiscal impact to the agency.\u00a0 Additionally, MDA is also faced with several serious proposed cuts by the Department of Legislative Services – opposed by MDA – including cuts to the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board, the Aquaculture and Seafood Marketing Program, the elimination of the Rural Maryland Council and additional cuts to Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistant Fund (MAERDAF) and Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation (MARBIDCO).<\/p>\n

In terms of legislation, MDA is working with sponsors on bills that reduce the regulatory burden for farmers selling at farmers markets, and has joined the Maryland Farm Bureau in opposing SB 359 (Fertilizers and Pesticides — Release Reporting), due to the fiscal and operational impact on MDA.\u00a0 MDA is monitoring HB 953 (Commercial Feed — Arsenic Prohibition) and HB 1360 (Invasive Plants — Labeling and Notice) as both would have a fiscal impact on the Department.<\/p>\n

MDA will provide a summary of how the 2010 General Assembly session affected agriculture soon after the legislators adjourn on April 12.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

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\n\""Dishing Dishing Up Maryland<\/span> Launches March 24
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A new cookbook featuring local Maryland products and the farmers that grow them is hitting book stores and online outlets this month.\u00a0 This stellar book captures the unique and delectable cuisine of Maryland with “150 recipes from the Alleghenies to the Chesapeake Bay”. Dishing Up Maryland<\/span><\/a> is authored by award-winning writer Lucie Snodgrass. Stunning photography by Edwin Remsberg, himself a farmer, provides the visual counterparts to stories of the farm families and chefs featured in the book. John Shields, renowned chef who embodies the buy local effort, provides the insightful foreword to the book.<\/p>\n

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to the Maryland’s Best<\/a> program to promote the purchase of locally grown and raised products
\nfor the benefit of the State’s farmers, watermen and related businesses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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\n\"Cassie Maryland 3rd Grader Grows 15-lb Cabbage
\n<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Cassie Jordan of Elkton Christian Academy grew a beautiful 15-pound cabbage and
\nis the winner of the Bonnie Plants cabbage contest in Maryland. \u00a0Jared Milhalko
\n(Bonnie Plants representative) and Mark Powell (Maryland Department of
\nAgriculture’s Chief of Marketing) presented\u00a0Cassie with a $1,000 scholarship on
\nFebruary 23 during\u00a0a school-wide assembly.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

In an effort to promote
\ngardening, Bonnie’s 3rd Grade Cabbage Program distributes free cabbage plants to
\nthird-grade classrooms whose teachers sign up to participate. FFA partnered with
\nBonnie Plants in administering this program and 45 states participated.\u00a0Maryland
\nhad 14 entries in 2009 from 95 participating schools. 1.2 million third-graders
\nplanted and took care of their own cabbage plants.\u00a0 The cabbages are the O.S.
\nCross variety, which are known for producing giant, oversized heads, making the
\nprocess even more exciting for kids.<\/p>\n

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\n\"Eddie People Profile: Eddie Boyle<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nBy day and sometimes by night depending upon the season, Michael E. “Eddie” Boyle, Jr. keeps the production flowing at Boyle Brothers, Inc., his family’s Queen Anne’s County seed cleaning business.\u00a0 He also raises livestock and grain with his father, giving him the opportunity to see multiple sides of the agriculture industry.\u00a0 He’s made involvement in his community and agricultural organizations an important part of his life.\u00a0 Eddie serves the Talbot County Farm Bureau, the Easton FFA, the Tri-County Ruritan Club, the St. Joseph’s Annual Jousting Tournament and Horse Show, and his church.\u00a0 He also is currently the chair of the state’s Young Farmer’s Advisory Board<\/a>.\u00a0 From the scope of his involvement in his community and farming organizations, it is obvious that he wants to make a difference.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

“I like to stay informed, know what’s coming down the pike to help our industry adapt operationally,” Boyle said.\u00a0 “With the Young Farmer’s Advisory Board, this information allows us to advise the Secretary of Agriculture and the Maryland Agricultural Commission on how things will affect young farmers. This way we can be the voices for young farmers and encourage them to get involved.”<\/p>\n

To help him become a more effective leader, Eddie applied to LEAD Maryland and was accepted as a Class III fellow.\u00a0 Prior to LEAD, he says he was always willing to help out and do work but didn’t want to step up and speak up.\u00a0 The LEAD fellowship helped him become comfortable speaking in public and voicing his opinion.\u00a0 The LEAD network provides another way for him to stay informed of upcoming issues.<\/p>\n

As chair of the Young Farmer’s Advisory Board, he leads the group in identifying issues of importance to young farmers and communicating these to the public, government at all levels and the state Agricultural Commission.\u00a0 The group is currently working to expand its presence on the web, weigh in on legislation that could impact younger farmers, participate more fully in the Maryland Ag Commission activities, and generally raise the awareness and profile of agriculture among decision makers and the general public.<\/p>\n

Boyle graduated from Easton High School and Attended Delaware Technical and Community College where he majored in Agri-Business.<\/p>\n

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Recipe: Boneless Spring Lamb Roast<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Courtesy
\n“Dishing Up Maryland<\/a>” by Lucie Snodgrass<\/span>
\nMaryland has many
\nfarms that raise succulent spring lambs. Most sell locally, although
\nsome will ship. Visit MarylandsBest.net<\/a> to find a farm
\nnear you.<\/div>\n

1 lemon
\n3\/4 cup olive oil
\n10 garlic cloves, peeled
\n2 teaspoons dried oregano
\n2 teaspoons dried rosemary leaves
\n1\/2 teaspoon paprika
\n1\/2 teaspoon salt
\n1 (3-3 1\/2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
\n1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
\n1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper<\/p>\n

1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Zest and juice the lemon. Combine the lemon zest and juice with the olive oil, 3 of the garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of the oregano, 1 teaspoon of the rosemary, the paprika, and the salt in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Place the leg of lamb in a large ziplock bag and add the marinade. Put the ziplock bag into a larger plastic bag or large container to ensure there is no leakage and place it in the refrigerator to marinate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
\n2.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Remove the lamb from the refrigerator and allow the contents to come to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 450\u00b0F. Remove the lamb from the bag and pat dry. Combine the remaining 1 teaspoon oregano and 1 teaspoon rosemary with the sea salt and pepper.\u00a0 Rub this mixture all over the lamb. Cut small incisions into the lamb and insert the remaining 7 garlic cloves into the incisions. Insert a meat thermometer into the roast.
\n3.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Place the lamb on a rack in a roasting pan, fattiest side up. Roast for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven to 325\u00b0F and roast an additional 10 to 15 minutes per pound, 30-40 minutes, until a meat thermometer reads 140\u00b0F for medium rare to 150\u00b0F for medium. Remove the lamb from the oven, cover it with foil or a lid, and allow it to rest for 20 minutes. Cut the strings from the lamb and transfer the roast to a serving platter. Cut the lamb into \u00bd-inch-thick slices. Strain the pan drippings and pour them over the lamb.<\/p>\n

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