ANNAPOLIS, MD (September 2, 2026)–The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is now soliciting nominations for the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame recognizes those farm families that have made significant achievements to Maryland’s agricultural industry. Nominations will close on Friday, October 2, 2026.
“The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame honors those Maryland families who have not only built a lasting agricultural legacy, but who have strengthened their communities and helped ensure that farming remains an important part of our state’s future,” said Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks. “This is a special opportunity to recognize those farm families whose hard work, innovation and commitment have left a lasting mark on Maryland agriculture.”
The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame was established in 1991 and has honored 58 farms to date, spanning Maryland’s 23 counties. The first inductees included C. Rodman and Jean Myers of Catoctin Mountain View Farm (Frederick County), Y.D. and Lonnie Hance of Taney Place Farm (Calvert County), and Roland and Mildred Darcey of Edgewood Farm (Prince George’s County). The McGinnis Family (Baltimore County) was the latest honoree to join the Hall of Fame this past February.
Applicants should work with their county nominating committee to detail their family’s agricultural leadership, community involvement and advancement in areas like soil and water conservation, marketing, machinery and safety. The nomination package must include signatures from their County Extension agent, County Farm Bureau President and County Soil Conservation District Manager. Completed nominations must be submitted via mail by 5:00 p.m. ET on Friday, October 2, 2026 to MDA Chief of Staff Harrison Palmer.
The selection committee includes the University of Maryland’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dean, Maryland Farm Bureau President and an unbiased panel from the Maryland agricultural community. Only one farm family per county will be considered. The 2026 inductee will be honored at the annual Taste of Maryland Agriculture on February 4, 2027.
Applications can be downloaded from the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame website. Please contact MDA Chief of Staff Harrison Palmer at [email protected] with any questions.
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