Maryland Department of Agriculture

The meeting focused on the role of microbes in various ecosystems, particularly in plant-soil interfaces, and their importance in maintaining ecosystem health. A significant portion of the presentation was dedicated to understanding the biotic and abiotic factors that influence microbial composition and function, including the impact of pesticides and other xenobiotic compounds on these systems. Discussion also touched upon the necessity of finding a new speaker to address the effects of microplastics on pesticides following a previously cancelled meeting.

The agenda focuses on the review of various agricultural easement amendment requests across several counties, including Carroll, Harford, St. Mary's, Frederick, and Montgomery. Specific items include requests for child's lot exclusions, agricultural subdivisions, sensory gardens, special occasion event areas, land exchanges, and dwelling relocations. Furthermore, the meeting includes discussions on program policy, such as the revision of the Talbot County Easement Prioritization Formula, closing the FY25/26 easement application cycle, planning for the FY27 cycle, and receiving a legislative update.

This document provides an overview of the Maryland Department of Agriculture's (MDA) Environmental Justice Strategic Plan, which is guided by Executive Order 01.01.2025. The plan aims to foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice within the agricultural sector, specifically addressing historically overburdened communities and underrepresented farmers. Key areas of focus include advancing urban agriculture, mitigating food insecurity, promoting access to fresh produce, expanding agricultural literacy, and ensuring accessible resources for all farmers. The plan is intended to be a living document that builds upon MDA's existing efforts to guarantee equitable and just agricultural and food accessibility for all Marylanders.

The meeting of the Labor, Education and Development Subcommittee for the Governor's Intergovernmental Commission on Agriculture (GICA) focused primarily on apprenticeship programs within the agricultural industry. A representative from the Department of Labor discussed the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning, covering registered apprenticeships, Earn Maryland, adult education, and correctional education. Key discussion points included the role of Apprenticeship Navigators in assisting employers to establish registered apprenticeship programs, which require a combination of on-the-job training and related instruction. The council deliberates on proposed programs based on curriculum and demand. The discussion explored the applicability of apprenticeships to various agricultural support roles, such as mechanics, construction, social media/marketing, and drone operation, noting that existing programs are strong in construction and skilled trades. The flexibility of the apprenticeship model for both small and large businesses was emphasized, including the possibility of Group Joint Apprenticeships, and the availability of incentives for startup costs.

The meeting, which was recorded in accordance with the Open Meetings Act, addressed updates on several items. In the education sector, there was no update provided on the local food exchange project. An update was given on the program of study standards, which were scheduled for board adoption in September, covering 48 programs across 12 career clusters and 152 CTE courses, including new pathways for plants and animals. The committee also discussed the upcoming comprehensive local needs assessment, a federal requirement for Perkins fund recipients, which evaluates programs of study against labor market information and student performance data, emphasizing stakeholder inclusion. The subcommittee reviewed the Maryland Rural Veteran Veterinarian Shortage Solutions Initiative, partnered with the Farm Journal Foundation, aimed at addressing the shortage of rural and food system veterinarians through tailored assessments and solution frameworks. A representative from MARBCO also mentioned an existing veterinarian loan program available to support rural vets. The meeting concluded after approving the July 2025 committee meeting minutes.