<\/p>\n
Maryland Department of Agriculture\u00a0News<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n\nJanuary 2013<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n\n\nIn This Issue<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nTake the Ag Census<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nPhotos of Farmers in Senate<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nNew Regs for Public Comment<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nFarmers Market Conference<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nFarm Processing Training Offered<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nSign Up for a CSA<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nGICA Survey for Farmers<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nAIR Forms due March 1<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nCost Share Grants Available<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nMHIB Awards $25,000 in Grants<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nMDA Welcomes Parade Horses<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nPesticide Containers Recycled<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nBuyer Grower Expo a Success<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nTake Care When Buying Wood<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nTurf & Seed Staffers Certified<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nEmployee of Quarter<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nFeatured Recipe<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\u00a0Secretary’s Corner <\/span><\/b><\/a><\/p>\nHappy New Year. I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday and is glad to be back at work. This year is already proving to be another busy legislative session in Annapolis.<\/span><\/p>\nLegislative Issues<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMDA has two departmental bills<\/a> this session, both of them considered general housekeeping bills.\u00a0 SB 53, a bill to repeal the department’s Board of Review, unanimously passed the State Senate.\u00a0 SB 180, combines four separate State Chemist funds into one.\u00a0 The bill makes no changes to the fee structure or cap on the existing funds. It simply streamlines our accounting.<\/span><\/p>\n MDA is working with Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton on legislation to establish a voluntary “certainty” program for Maryland farmers.\u00a0 The goal of the bill would be to exempt Maryland farmers who have\u00a0 established progressive best management practices from additional regulatory requirements for a period of time. We will keep you posted.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0In addition to the departmental legislation, other bills of considerable interest to the agriculture community are under consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\u00a0Secretary’s Corner <\/span><\/b><\/a><\/p>\nHappy New Year. I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday and is glad to be back at work. This year is already proving to be another busy legislative session in Annapolis.<\/span><\/p>\nLegislative Issues<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMDA has two departmental bills<\/a> this session, both of them considered general housekeeping bills.\u00a0 SB 53, a bill to repeal the department’s Board of Review, unanimously passed the State Senate.\u00a0 SB 180, combines four separate State Chemist funds into one.\u00a0 The bill makes no changes to the fee structure or cap on the existing funds. It simply streamlines our accounting.<\/span><\/p>\n MDA is working with Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton on legislation to establish a voluntary “certainty” program for Maryland farmers.\u00a0 The goal of the bill would be to exempt Maryland farmers who have\u00a0 established progressive best management practices from additional regulatory requirements for a period of time. We will keep you posted.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0In addition to the departmental legislation, other bills of considerable interest to the agriculture community are under consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Happy New Year. I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday and is glad to be back at work. This year is already proving to be another busy legislative session in Annapolis.<\/span><\/p>\nLegislative Issues<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMDA has two departmental bills<\/a> this session, both of them considered general housekeeping bills.\u00a0 SB 53, a bill to repeal the department’s Board of Review, unanimously passed the State Senate.\u00a0 SB 180, combines four separate State Chemist funds into one.\u00a0 The bill makes no changes to the fee structure or cap on the existing funds. It simply streamlines our accounting.<\/span><\/p>\n MDA is working with Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton on legislation to establish a voluntary “certainty” program for Maryland farmers.\u00a0 The goal of the bill would be to exempt Maryland farmers who have\u00a0 established progressive best management practices from additional regulatory requirements for a period of time. We will keep you posted.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0In addition to the departmental legislation, other bills of considerable interest to the agriculture community are under consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Legislative Issues<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMDA has two departmental bills<\/a> this session, both of them considered general housekeeping bills.\u00a0 SB 53, a bill to repeal the department’s Board of Review, unanimously passed the State Senate.\u00a0 SB 180, combines four separate State Chemist funds into one.\u00a0 The bill makes no changes to the fee structure or cap on the existing funds. It simply streamlines our accounting.<\/span><\/p>\n MDA is working with Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton on legislation to establish a voluntary “certainty” program for Maryland farmers.\u00a0 The goal of the bill would be to exempt Maryland farmers who have\u00a0 established progressive best management practices from additional regulatory requirements for a period of time. We will keep you posted.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0In addition to the departmental legislation, other bills of considerable interest to the agriculture community are under consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
MDA has two departmental bills<\/a> this session, both of them considered general housekeeping bills.\u00a0 SB 53, a bill to repeal the department’s Board of Review, unanimously passed the State Senate.\u00a0 SB 180, combines four separate State Chemist funds into one.\u00a0 The bill makes no changes to the fee structure or cap on the existing funds. It simply streamlines our accounting.<\/span><\/p>\n MDA is working with Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton on legislation to establish a voluntary “certainty” program for Maryland farmers.\u00a0 The goal of the bill would be to exempt Maryland farmers who have\u00a0 established progressive best management practices from additional regulatory requirements for a period of time. We will keep you posted.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0In addition to the departmental legislation, other bills of considerable interest to the agriculture community are under consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
MDA is working with Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton on legislation to establish a voluntary “certainty” program for Maryland farmers.\u00a0 The goal of the bill would be to exempt Maryland farmers who have\u00a0 established progressive best management practices from additional regulatory requirements for a period of time. We will keep you posted.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0In addition to the departmental legislation, other bills of considerable interest to the agriculture community are under consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\u00a0In addition to the departmental legislation, other bills of considerable interest to the agriculture community are under consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Legislation will be introduced for the fourth time to establish a pesticide use database at MDA. The department has opposed the bill on three previous occasions because of the fiscal and operational impact.\u00a0 We have not seen the most recent version of the bill so we have not taken a position, but we are closely monitoring it. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLegislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Legislation has also been introduced to ban pesticide applications near Maryland daycares and public\/private schools. And legislation has been introduced to mandate funding for intensive farm management and grazing with funding from the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund. We are watching all of them.<\/span><\/p>\nCover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Cover Crops<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nMaryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Maryland farmers continue to show their leadership in the Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts by planting 414,000 acres of cover crops<\/a>, exceeding Maryland’s 2013 Chesapeake Bay milestone goal<\/a> by 17 percent. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nCover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Cover crops, the workhorse of our Bay restoration efforts,\u00a0 control soil erosion, reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\u00a0I thank all farmers who planted cover crops and encourage those who did not participate to enroll in the program this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
“Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land” Exhibit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nAnyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Anyone who visits the Miller Senate Office Building this year will be able to view a series of remarkable portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land,<\/a> highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints are on display in the highly visible second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room.<\/span><\/p>\nWe are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
We are honored that Edwin dedicates his talent to featuring the people and the stories of Maryland agriculture. The photographs will be permanently displayed at MDA headquarters in Annapolis when the exhibition at the Miller building closes at the end of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Delmarva Poultry Industry<\/strong>\nI had the pleasure of attending the 2nd annual Chicken Day Lunch<\/a> in Annapolis last week where I joined Governor Martin O’Malley, who gave brief remarks at the event. The event provided a great opportunity for leaders of our poultry industry to meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting the largest sector of Maryland’s agricultural industry.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nBuyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Buyer-Grower Meeting<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\nWinter provides well-needed down time for our farmers, and this month MDA hosted another successful buyer-grower meeting. With increasing consumer demand for local products, there is huge potential for our producers. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
If you could not make it to the meeting, contact our Marketing Office at 410-841-5771. They can help connect you with buyers who are interested in purchasing local agricultural products.<\/span><\/p>\nTax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Tax Relief for Farmers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\nCurrent-year personal income tax returns are not being accepted or processed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) until January 30. The Maryland Comptroller has announced that Maryland farmers and fishermen who may be forced to file estimated payments late because of the delayed start to the tax season will receive state and federal tax relief.<\/span><\/p>\n Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Farmers and fishermen are expected to pay their 2012 taxes by March 1. Missing the deadline typically results in penalties due to an under payment of estimated taxes. Maryland and the IRS are providing relief by pushing back the deadline to April 15. Click here<\/a> for more details.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nNASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
NASDA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nI will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nImmigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
I will be attending the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) winter meeting next week with colleagues from across the nation. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
Immigration reform is sure to be a hot topic. Progress is being made on Capitol Hill, and President Obama is considering introducing legislation to address long-standing issues, depending on the outcome of Congressional Debate. A full five-year farm bill is also yet to be resolved.\u00a0 We will continue to closely monitor these issues and provide updates as they become available.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\u00a0 \u00a0“Taste of Maryland” Gala<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
\u00a0More than 600 agricultural leaders and legislators will gather on Feb. 7 to celebrate the importance of Maryland’s leading industry at the “Taste of Maryland Agriculture” gala<\/a> in its new venue at the Loews Annapolis Hotel.\u00a0 The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame<\/a> Award will be presented that evening to a farm family that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to agriculture and the communities in which they live and work. We will highlight their accomplishments in next month’s newsletter.<\/p>\nWe hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBuddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
We hope to see you there!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Buddy Hance<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSecretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Secretary<\/a> \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nQuick Links<\/b><\/div>\nMore About MDA <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\nBayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
BayStat <\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nSign Up for Governor O’Malley’s E-Newsletter<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nJoin Our Mailing List!<\/b><\/a>\n\u00a0<\/span>\nJoin the Maryland Green Registry<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
MDA Urges all Maryland Farmers to Complete the 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a>\u00a0by the Feb. 4 Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\nWatch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Watch Secretary Hance’s\u00a0Public Service Announcement<\/a>\u00a0encouraging Farmers to Participate in the Ag Census<\/strong><\/em> <\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\nMDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
MDA urges all Maryland farmers to participate and complete the USDA’s 2012 Agricultural Census<\/a> by the Feb. 4 deadline. The Ag Census, conducted every five years, defines a farm as any place that produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the Census Year (2012).<\/p>\n<\/div>\nBy responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
By responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves, their communities and all of U.S. agriculture.\u00a0For more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\nEdwin Remsberg by remsberg.com<\/em><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nVisitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
Photo Exhibit Featuring Maryland Farmers Debuts in the State Capital; Will Move to MDA at End of Year <\/p>\n
Visitors to the Miller Senate Office Building in Annapolis will be able to view a series of portraits of Maryland farmers taken by award-winning photographer Edwin Remsberg<\/a> and commissioned by MDA. The series, Maryland Farmers: The Faces of the Land<\/em>, highlights the diversity of people, places and practices involved with food production in our state. Twelve archival 20″ by 30″ photographic prints will be on display in the second floor lobby near the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs hearing room. The display will move to MDA at the end of the year. For more information<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\nAll Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n\nMDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
<\/a><\/p>\n
MDA Proposes Four Regulatory Changes;<\/p>\n
All Open for Public Comment through Feb. 25<\/p>\n
MDA has proposed regulatory changes to four existing regulations. All are open for public comment through Feb. 25. The regulations <\/span>involve:<\/span><\/p>\n\nupdates to the P-Site Index<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nproposed changes to Maryland’s non-agricultural commercial fertilizer application requirements<\/a>; \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nrequirement for pest detection dogs and handlers<\/a> to be trained and certified as a team; and \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\nchanges to regulations associated with the\u00a0
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<\/p>\n![\"two](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/ih.constantcontact.com\/fs075\/1102010834983\/img\/21.jpg?fit=760%2C73\")
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Maryland Department of Agriculture\u00a0News<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n![\"MDA](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/ih.constantcontact.com\/fs075\/1102010834983\/img\/187.jpg?w=161\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/ih.constantcontact.com\/fs151\/1102010834983\/img\/414.jpg?resize=200%2C200\")
<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n![\"Edwin](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/ih.constantcontact.com\/fs151\/1102010834983\/img\/426.jpg?resize=217%2C217\")
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