St. Mary’s County Commissioners Honor Farmers And 4-H Youth On National Agriculture Day

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — St. Mary’s County officials joined local farmers, youth agricultural leaders, and industry representatives Tuesday to recognize the importance of agriculture during a proclamation for National Agriculture Day.

Presented by Commissioner Eric Colvin at the March 24 meeting of the St. Mary’s County Commissioners, the proclamation highlighted the vital role agriculture plays locally and globally while honoring those who contribute to the industry.

“American agriculture builds on centuries of progress by constantly seeking advances in science, research, technology, production, and marketing to meet the demands of changing consumer needs in complex world markets,” Colvin read.

This year’s National Agriculture Day theme, “Together We Grow: Celebrating 250 Years of Progress,” reflects the collaborative efforts of farmers, ranchers, and policymakers in advancing the industry.

Colvin emphasized that agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy and community.

“The agricultural industry contributes significantly to the prosperity and well-being of our community, playing a vital role in feeding the world, fueling our economy, and promoting rural development,” he said.

The proclamation also noted the wide-reaching impact of agriculture across Maryland, from farmers and scientists to processors, retailers, and shippers, while acknowledging the challenges facing the industry, including climate change, food security, and sustainable resource management.

“In recognition of the key role that agriculture plays in our daily lives, we, the commissioners of St. Mary’s County, do hereby proclaim March 24, 2026, as National Agriculture Day in St. Mary’s County,” Colvin said, encouraging residents to “recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by our agricultural sector” and to express gratitude to those working to ensure a reliable food supply.

Following the proclamation, members of the local agricultural community introduced themselves, representing a cross-section of the industry, from youth involved in 4-H and Future Farmers of America to longtime farmers and agricultural professionals of the county.

“We grow vegetables in St. Mary’s County, then push them into our local community. We love it. Thank you for the recognition,” Paulk said. Sassafras Creek Farm is a four-season USDA-certified organic vegetable farm in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, located in Leonardtown.

Agricultural leaders also pointed to both the promise and challenges facing the industry this year.

Ben Beale, an extension agent for agricultural sciences with the University of Maryland Extension, noted that spring planting is already underway.

“Greenhouses are already filling up with vegetable transplants, ornamental plants, bedding plants,” he said. “So keep that in mind in the next couple of weeks.”

Beale also cautioned that 2026 may present difficulties for farmers due to economic pressures.

“This is going to be a challenging year … given rising input costs and lower commodity costs,” he said. “So all the support we can get to support our farmers is always very helpful.”

He added a seasonal reminder for residents: “The forsythia is blooming. That means spring is here. It’s time to get out, buy those plants, and get in the gardens.”

Sydney Garner, agency food division manager with the St. Mary’s County Department of Economic Development, expressed appreciation for the recognition.

“We have a variety of farmers, resource partners, as well as the future of farming in St. Mary’s County,” Garner said. “So we really appreciate this appreciation of the community that grows our food.”

Jeff Miller, owner of Dixon Family Farm, showed his appreciation by stating, “My wife and I grow lavender, cut flowers, herbs, vegetables, and wine grapes on the farm.” Their website noted that over the past couple of years they have expanded that work into a line of farm-made products crafted from the lavender and botanicals they grow themselves.

The Dixon Family Farm also notes on their website how their livestock “may be fluffy and cute, but each animal has an important job on our farm,” stating that “diversity is a cornerstone of regenerative agriculture. Different species graze, browse, and move across pastures in unique ways, encouraging deeper root systems and supporting a wider range of soil life. Together, cattle, sheep, goats, and other livestock mimic natural ecosystems by cycling nutrients efficiently, managing vegetation naturally, and improving pasture balance.”

As the growing season begins, officials and agricultural leaders encourage residents to show their support for the local farming community by shopping at roadside stands and farmers markets, purchasing locally grown products, and engaging with agricultural events throughout the county. With rising costs and ongoing challenges facing the industry, community support remains vital to sustaining St. Mary’s County’s agricultural heritage and ensuring its continued success for future generations.

The proclamation concluded with a group photo of commissioners and attendees, marking a moment of unity in celebrating the county’s agricultural heritage and future.

Watch the National Agriculture Day Proclamation below at 11:54.

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