![[photo, Wayne A. Cawley, Jr. Building, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/10dag/images/1198-1-817b.jpg)
Since agriculture is vital to Maryland's economy, the main purpose of the Department of Agriculture is to help farmers produce high-quality commodities. To this end, the Department eradicates disease in livestock and poultry, controls insect pests and weeds which threaten field crops, inspects seeds and fertilizers to ensure maximum yields, and disseminates market reports and statistics to help farmers plan farm production. The Department also protects the environment by regulating the use of pesticides, implementing sound soil conservation methods, and preserving valuable agricultural land. To protect consumers, the Department inspects and grades agricultural commodities, oversees the practice of veterinary medicine, and inspects the weighing and packaging of a wide range of products. In addition, the Department promotes Maryland agriculture, seeks out new markets, and implements new initiatives such as aquaculture.
Wayne A. Cawley, Jr. Building, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland, June 2004. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
Wayne A. Cawley, Jr. Building, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401 - 8960
The chief executive officer of the Department is the Secretary of Agriculture who is appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. Responsible for daily operations, the Deputy Secretary is appointed by the Secretary with the Governor's approval. The Secretary of Agriculture also appoints the State Chemist, the State Veterinarian, and the Chief of Weights and Measures.
The Secretary serves on the Governor's Executive Council; the BayStat Subcabinet; the Governor's Council on the Chesapeake Bay (Governor's Chesapeake Bay Cabinet); the Governor's Subcabinet for International Affairs; and the Smart Growth Subcabinet, and chairs the Governor's Intergovernmental Commission for Agriculture; and the Renewable Fuels Incentive Board. The Secretary also serves on the Board of Directors, Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation; the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Board; the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation; the Bay Restoration Fund Advisory Committee; the Climate Change Commission; the Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays; the State Children's Environmental Health and Protection Advisory Council; the Maryland Food Center Authority; the Maryland Horse Industry Board; the Interdepartmental Advisory Committee for Minority Affairs; the Maryland Pandemic Influenza Coordinating Committee; the Pesticide Advisory Committee; the Rural Legacy Board; the Rural Maryland Council; the Scenic and Wild Rivers Review Board; the Seafood Marketing Advisory Commission; the State Soil Conservation Committee; and the Board of Regents, University System of Maryland.
Within the Office of Secretary are the principal counsel and offices for communications, emergency preparedness and response, information technology, and intergovernmental relations (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 2-101 through 2-108).
Appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent, the Board's seven members serve three-year terms. The Governor names the chair (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 2-401 through 2-405).
MARYLAND AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION
The Commission consists of thirty members. Twenty-nine are appointed by the Governor for three-year terms. One serves ex officio (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 2-201 through 2-205).
RENEWABLE FUELS INCENTIVE BOARD
YOUNG FARMERS ADVISORY BOARD
The Board meets quarterly. Its twelve members are appointed by the Governor to three-year terms (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 2-1001 through 2-1005).
The Office of Administrative Services began as the Business Office in 1979, and reformed under its present name by 1980. The Office oversees central services, fiscal services, personnel services, and the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.
Agricultural Land Preservation Program. The Program's intent is to preserve productive agricultural land and woodland in Maryland, provide for the continued production of food and fiber, curb the extent of urban sprawl, and protect agricultural land and woodland as open space. The Program depends on the cooperation of county governments, which appoint local agricultural preservation advisory boards. Participation in the Program is voluntary on the part of landowners.
By agreement with the Foundation, landowners may initiate the creation of an agricultural preservation district in which subdivision and development are restricted for at least five years. The creation of such a district protects normal agricultural activities and enables landowners to make application to sell a development rights easement. Based upon the availability of funds allocated by the State and counties, the Foundation may acquire easements according to a competitive formula (defined by law) and subject to local recommendation and appraisal. Easements thus acquired are perpetual, although those approved by the Board of Public Works before Sept. 30, 2004 may be terminated after twenty-five years if it is determined that profitable farming of any kind is no longer feasible on the property. By gift, devise, bequest, or grant, the Foundation also may receive easements in gross or other rights to restrict the use of agricultural land and woodland.
With other State programs such as Rural Legacy and GreenPrint, and local land preservation programs, Maryland has preserved more farmland than any other state. As of January 1, 2005, Maryland had saved 410,149 acres in 3,163 agricultural preservation districts. Of that acreage, Maryland acquired easements for permanent development rights on 235,836 acres.
In 1973, the Office of Marketing, Animal Industries, and Consumer Services originated as the Division of Animal Industries within the Department of Agriculture. By 1978, the Division was renamed the Office of Animal Health and, by 1980, the Office of Animal Health and Consumer Services. It reorganized as the Office of Food Safety and Consumer Services in 1992 and received its present name in March 1997.
Six sections are directed by the Office: Animal Health; Food Quality Assurance; Marketing and Agricultural Development; Seafood Marketing and Aquaculture Development; U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service, Maryland Field Office; and Weights and Measures. The Office also is assisted by the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board; the Maryland Horse Industry Board; the Maryland Organic Certification Advisory Committee; the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners; and the Tobacco Authority.
The Maryland Agricultural Fair Board was established as the State Fair Board in 1937 (Chapter 463, Acts of 1937). It received its present name in 1980 (Chapter 85, Acts of 1980). The Board fosters agriculture by promoting and assisting agricultural fairs and exhibits. It gives financial aid to qualifying organizations for premium awards to exhibitors of agricultural displays. Annually, the Board issues the Maryland Fair & Show Schedule.
County fairs in Maryland are held in the months of July, August, September, and October. Each year, the Maryland State Fair is held at Timonium in Baltimore County and runs eleven days ending on Labor Day.
The Board's nine members are appointed by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Agriculture to five-year terms (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 10-301 through 10-303).
Horse farm, Davidsonville, Maryland, August 2004. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
The Board advises the Department of Agriculture on matters affecting Maryland's horse industry; supports research on equine health and related issues; and promotes the use of horses and development of the horse industry in Maryland. It also demonstrates how equine activities help preserve green space and agricultural land; and develops and distributes information about Maryland's horse industry, its history, breeds, and recreational role.
Twelve members constitute the Board. Eleven are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Agriculture. The Secretary of Agriculture serves ex officio. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2016 (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 2-701 through 2-719).
Appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, the Committee has thirteen members.
Purchasers and commission agencies (individuals, firms, associations, or corporations who sell tobacco) are licensed by the Authority. In addition, the Authority collects a fee from the owners of tobacco sold at a commission agency. To develop markets for Maryland tobacco, a representative of the Tobacco Authority visits manufacturers in foreign countries, as well as in the United States.
The Authority is composed of six members appointed by the Governor for three-year terms. Authorization for the Authority continues until July 1, 2010 (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 7-201 through 7-209, 7-401 through 7-418).
STATE BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EXAMINERS
The Board has seven members. They are appointed to five-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Agriculture and with Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2021 (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 2-301 through 2-313).
With approval of the Secretary of Agriculture, the Committee's seven members are appointed by the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners .
Animal Health Laboratory, 1840 Rosemont Ave., Frederick, Maryland, August 2006. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
To provide diagnostic services and assist veterinarians and farmers, the Section runs five animal health diagnostic laboratories in Centreville, College Park, Frederick, Oakland, and Salisbury. When necessary, testing and investigations are conducted on farms.
Grain silos, Wye Mills, Maryland, September 2007. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
Egg Inspection Program. This program enforces the Maryland Egg Law. Inspections performed at the processor, wholesale, food service and retail levels ensure that eggs sold in Maryland comply with standards for quality, size, labeling and record-keeping. Annually, wholesalers and packers of shell eggs must register with the Program.
Enforcement of the Salmonella enteritidis regulations jointly adopted by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is coordinated by the Program. Through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Federal Egg Law controlling the movement of inedible and restricted eggs also is enforced by the Program. Restricted eggs are those not suitable for consumption due to cracks, blood spots, leaks, or other problems (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 4-301 through 4-312).
Grain Laws Program. The Program licenses grain dealers, as defined by law. The practice dates at least to 1888 when licenses were granted to Baltimore grain brokers (Chapter 416, Acts of 1888). Now, grain dealers annually must meet financial and insurance requirements. Each year, the Section also publishes the Directory of Grain Dealers.
The following publications are compiled by Marketing and Agricultural Development: Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Directory;
Grain and Livestock (weekly);
Maryland Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Users Guide; Maryland Hay and Straw Directory; Maryland Retail Farmers' Market Directory; Maryland Tobacco Report (radio tape-in season); Pick-Your-Own Fruit and Vegetable Directory; and Wholesale Directory-Maryland Christmas Tree Growers.
Under Marketing and Agricultural Development are Agribusiness Development; International Marketing; and National Marketing.
Tractor pull event, Cecil County Fair, Fair Hill, Maryland, July 2000. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
INTERNATIONAL MARKETING
NATIONAL MARKETING
Seafood Marketing started in 1976 as an office within the Division of Economic Development under the Department of Economic and Community Development. In 1987, the Office of Seafood Marketing transferred to the Department of Agriculture as Seafood Marketing Services. It was renamed the Seafood Marketing Section in 1988, and simply Seafood Marketing in 1992. In July 1995, its functions were assigned to Aquaculture Development and Seafood Marketing, which reorganized as Seafood Marketing and Aquaculture Development in June 2005.
In Maryland, aquaculture is an agricultural responsibility. Aquaculture involves the controlled cultivation and harvest of aquatic plants and animals. Aquaculture crops in the State include hybrid striped bass, tilapia, catfish, trout, crawfish, oysters, and soft-shell crabs.
The National Aquaculture Act of 1980 encourages development of an aquaculture industry. In Maryland, the Department of Agriculture was designated in 1988 to promote development of aquaculture and coordinate State efforts in this field (Chapter 534, Acts of 1988). In that year, the Office of Aquaculture Programs was established by the Department to coordinate its aquaculture programs with those of the Department of Natural Resources, and the University System of Maryland. In 1992, the Office reorganized as Aquaculture Development and Marketing.
The Council has seventeen members. Six are named to three-year terms by the Governor. Other members include a senator chosen by the Senate President,and a delegate selected by the House Speaker. Also serving are representatives: one named by the Secretary of Agriculture, two by the Secretary of Natural Resources, two by the Fisheries Service and the Natural Resources Police; and two representing the University of Maryland named by the President, University of Maryland, College Park. The President of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science also designates a member as do the Secretary of Business and Economic Development, the Secretary of the Environment, and the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene (Code Agriculture Article, sec. 10-1303).
AQUACULTURE REVIEW BOARD
For someone applying for permits and licenses to conduct aquaculture activities in Maryland, the Board will track each application and ensure that the applicant is fully informed during the process.
The Board is chaired by the Aquaculture Coordinator of the Department of Agriculture, and includes a representative from each of the following: Board of Public Works; Department of the Environment; Department of Health and Mental Hygiene; and Department of Natural Resources.
SEAFOOD MARKETING ADVISORY COMMISSION
Thirteen members make up the Commission. With Senate advice and consent and the advice of the Secretary of Agriculture, the Governor appoints eleven members to four-year terms. Two are nonvoting, ex officio members (Code Agriculture Article, sec. 10-1101).
The Maryland Field Office collects, summarizes, and publishes data relating to the production and marketing of agricultural products, agriculture prices and income, and agriculture and agribusiness. State statistics generally are available for acreage, yield, and production of major field crops, vegetables, fruits, livestock, and poultry; and monthly and seasonal or annual average prices, farm expenditures, and labor. For some commodities the Office also compiles county statistics.
Publications issued by the Office include: Maryland Agricultural Statistics (annually); Maryland Agri-Facts (bi-monthly); Weekly Crop and Weather Report; and Weekly Delmarva Broiler Report.
The Section supervises the use and production of weighing and measuring devices, weights and measures, and packaged commodities offered for sale, sold, or in use in the State. This supervision extends to the methodology used to obtain accurate measurement and provides a means for value comparisons for consumers.
State laws for ensuring accuracy, equity, and the prevention of fraud in the sale and measurement of quantities, commodities, goods, or services are administered and enforced by the Section. In addition, the Section also licenses and tests personnel who determine butterfat content for dairies and milk cooperatives and personnel who calibrate farm milk tanks (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 11-101 through 11-509).
The Office of Plant Industries and Pest Management originated in 1972 as the Division of Plant Industries. It became the Division of Plant Industries and Pest Management in 1980, and the Office of Plant Industries and Pest Management in 1984. The Office reorganized in 1987 as the Office of Plant Industries and Resource Conservation and, in 1990, resumed its earlier name.
Programs concerned with plants, plant pests, pest management, and pesticides are supervised by the Office. It also coordinates these programs with local, State and federal officials. In addition, the Office manages cooperative agreements with local, county, State and federal agencies.
Under the Office are six sections: Forest Pest Management; Mosquito Control; Pesticide Regulation; Plant Protection and Weed Management; State Chemist; and Turf and Seed. The Office also is aided by the Pesticide Advisory Committee.
In November 2003, the Council was replaced by the Pesticide Advisory Committee within the Department of Agriculture (Executive Order 01.01.2003.49). The Committee advises the Secretary of Agriculture, other State agencies, and local governments on all issues relating to pesticides. This includes the registration, sales, use, storage, and disposal of pesticides; the training and certification of persons who apply pesticides; and the licensing of pest control businesses. Further, the Committee is concerned with ensuring that farm workers are not harmed by pesticides, nor are endangered species, or the State's water resources. To the Secretary, the Committee recommends changes to laws and regulations that govern pesticide use.
The Committee consists of fifteen members. Seven are appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture after consultation with the Governor's Office; they serve at the Secretary's pleasure. One is a member of the Maryland Agricultural Commission appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture. One is appointed by the Senate President, one by the House Speaker, and one by the Chancellor of the University System of Maryland. Four serve ex officio. The Secretary of Agriculture names the chair.
Cooperative Gypsy Moth Suppression Program. The gypsy moth is the most destructive forest pest of the eastern United States. It harms trees in wooded residential areas, parks, and recreation areas. Consequently, the moth is the subject of a State and a national quarantine program. This pest has been present in Maryland since 1971. Despite an active suppression program, the gypsy moth continues threatening unprotected trees in certain areas. The Cooperative Gypsy Moth Suppression Program works to manage the gypsy moth. Coordinated by the Forest Pest Management Section, the Program is a joint effort by local and State agencies and the U.S. Forest Service. Branch offices of the Forest Pest Management Section are located in Bel Air, Cheltenham, Cumberland, Denton, and Frederick.
The Section regulates the sale, use, storage, and disposal of pesticides in Maryland. It licenses businesses engaged in commercial application of pesticides; trains and certifies commercial and private pesticide applicators; and enforces the Pesticide Applicators Law and Regulations. The Section also provides technical advice on the use of pesticides, and enforces federal laws and regulations governing pesticide use.
The Chief is the State's authority on matters relating to pesticide use and application (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 5-201 through 5-211).
Plant Protection. The Section oversees programs for certified plant production, inspection and registration of honey bee colonies, and implementation of the Interstate Pest Control Compact. The Section serves as the State authority on plant pests and agricultural quarantines. With other State and federal regulatory agencies, it also serves as liaison for the Department (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 5-301 through 5-314, 5-501 through 5-507, 5-701 through 5-716, 5-801 through 5-805, 9-301 through 9-307, 9-601 through 9-606).
Weed Management. The Maryland Noxious Weed Law is administered by the Section. This law requires landowners or those who possess and manage land infested with Johnsongrass, shattercane, or thistles to eradicate or control these noxious weeds by practices prescribed by the Secretary of Agriculture. The noxious weed control program helps individuals manage noxious weeds through their own efforts and through a cooperative agreement between the State and participating counties. The Department encourages individuals to file a Noxious Weed Control Agreement, outlining methods and procedures for controlling noxious weeds on their land. Regulatory action may be taken against those who fail to manage noxious weeds. The Section also investigates complaints of multiflora rose-infestations on or near land used for agricultural production.
The Secretary of Agriculture has authority to declare other weeds noxious and place them under a control program. The Section Chief serves as the State's authority on weed control matters (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 9-401 through 9-405, 9-701 through 9-705).
The Section began under the Office of Animal Health and Consumer Services and moved in 1987 to the Office of Plant Industries and Resource Conservation (now Plant Industries and Pest Management). The Section samples and chemically tests and analyzes commercial fertilizers, feeds, pesticides, soil conditioners, composts, and liming materials sold in the State. The Section registers and examines the labels of these products as well. It determines if products conform to standards established under Maryland laws governing quality, contents, and labeling. These measures protect the consumer and the dealer from unscrupulous or careless manufacturers.
To implement the federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), the Section works with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Additionally, Section chemists analyze meat and toxicology samples for the Office of Marketing, Animal Industries, and Consumer Services; test fruits, vegetables, commercial feeds, and soils for chemical residues; and make other determinations as required by the Department (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 5-101 through 5-114, 6-101 through 6-117, 6-201 through 6-221, 6-301 through 6-311).
To help consumers determine what to purchase, the Section also regulates the labeling of seed and sod at the time of marketing. A State testing laboratory is operated for both service and regulatory testing to assure compliance with label claims. The regulatory phase involves inspection, testing, reporting results, and corrective actions for each turf and seed lot found not to comply with provisions of the Turf Grass Law or the Seed Law (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 9-101 through 9-110, 9-201 through 9-214).
The Office of Resource Conservation began in 1985 as the Office of Agricultural Development and Resource Conservation. Restructured as the Office of Plant Industries and Resource Conservation in 1987, it received its current name in 1989.
Through agricultural soil conservation and water quality programs, the Office works to control soil erosion and agricultural nonpoint-source water pollution. The Office coordinates its efforts with other Department programs and with county, State and federal agencies. This includes managing interagency cooperative agreements. For Chesapeake Bay Agricultural Programs, the Office serves as agency liaison and facilitates State and local agricultural involvement in tributary strategies.
Four sections carry out the work of the Office: Nutrient Management; Program Planning and Development; Resource Conservation Grants; and Resource Conservation Operations.
Agricultural Water Management Program. Program Planning and Development helps public drainage associations maintain agricultural drainage through cost-share maintenance and interagency review of plans for construction, reconstruction, operation, and maintenance.
The State Committee helps districts secure aid from State and federal agencies for soil and water conservation, and certain phases of related land use programs. Areas of concern include nonpoint source pollution, watershed protection and flood prevention, siltation of streams and reservoirs, shore erosion control, and highway erosion control. They also involve forest and woodland conservation and development, the protection and propagation of wildlife, development of public land areas, and urban sediment and erosion control.
The Committee has eleven members. Six serve ex officio. Five are soil conservation district supervisors appointed to four-year terms by the Secretary of Agriculture from nominees of the districts represented (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 8-101 through 8-501).
Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share Program. Established in 1983, the Program reduces water pollution caused by nutrient and sediment erosion, and animal waste runoff. The Program helps farmers pay the costs of best land and water management practices to control pollution and improve water quality. These practices include the construction of animal waste storage facilities, grassed waterways, sediment basins, and spring developments. To retain nutrients, farmers are encouraged to plant winter cover crops, such as wheat, rye and barley. Farmers also can receive cost-share assistance to transport excess poultry litter off the farm.
State resources that support soil and water conservation programs on agricultural land are administered by Resource Conservation Operations. This section guides and assists twenty-four soil conservation districts and gives financial, administrative and technical support for conservation programs. Resource Conservation Operations also provides technical assistance to farmers and landowners on best management practices to control soil erosion and agricultural nonpoint source pollution.
? Copyright Maryland State Archives
BOARD OF REVIEW
The Board of Review hears and determines appeals from any decision of a Department of Agriculture agency or the Secretary of Agriculture, subject to judicial review under the Administrative Procedure Act.
In 1961, the Maryland Agricultural Commission formed as the Agricultural Advisory Board (Chapter 470, Acts of 1961). It reorganized under its present name in 1968 (Chapter 552, Acts of 1968). The Commission's chief function is to advance Maryland agriculture and advise the Secretary of Agriculture. The Commission proposes agricultural improvements, promotes State agricultural industries and products, and reviews legislation for its impact on agriculture.
Effective October 1, 2005, the Renewable Fuels Incentive Board was established (Chapter 332, Acts of 2005). The Board reviews applications from producers of renewable fuels, such as ethanol or biodiesel, and determines whether the producers are eligible for financial credits based on the production capacity of their facility.
The Young Farmers Advisory Board was created by the General Assembly in October 2004 (Chapter 517, Acts of 2004; Chapter 517, Acts of 2007). The Board advises the Maryland Agricultural Commission on matters relating to young and beginning farmers in the State. To the Commission, State and federal government, and the general public, the Board communicates the importance of young and beginning farmers to agriculture in Maryland.
OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Wayne A. Cawley, Jr. Building, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401 - 8960
MARYLAND AGRICULTURAL LAND PRESERVATION FOUNDATION
The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation started in 1977 (Chapter 784, Acts of 1977). The Foundation implements the Agricultural Land Preservation Program.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation is governed and administered by a thirteen-member Board of Trustees. Nine at-large members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor who names one of these the chair. Four members serve ex officio. Upon recommendation of the at-large Trustees, the Secretary of Agriculture appoints the Executive Director (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 2-501 through 2-515).
OFFICE OF MARKETING, ANIMAL INDUSTRIES, & CONSUMER SERVICES
Wayne A. Cawley, Jr. Building, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401 - 8960
MARYLAND AGRICULTURAL FAIR BOARD
Forerunners of the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board include societies for the promotion of agriculture which flourished in Maryland in the nineteenth century. In 1807, boards of agriculture were authorized in twelve Maryland counties (Chapter 169, Acts of 1807). These boards awarded premiums or medals for the promotion of agriculture. Other county societies and fair boards were created and, from time to time, the General Assembly appropriated money to them for agricultural fairs.
![[photo, Horse farm, Davidsonville, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/36loc/an/images/1198-1-840b.jpg)
MARYLAND HORSE INDUSTRY BOARD
The Maryland Horse Industry Board began as the State Board of Inspection of Horse Riding Stables in 1968 (Chapter 474, Acts of 1968). It was made part of the Department of Licensing and Regulation in 1970 (Chapter 402, Acts of 1970). The Board transferred to the Department of Agriculture in 1980 (Chapter 618, Acts of 1980), and assumed its present name in October 1998 (Chapter 416, Acts of 1998).
All horse riding stables where horses or ponies are let for hire in Maryland must be licensed by the Board. Sales barns, and stables that board five or more horses, or where five or more horses are sold annually, also are licensed by the Board. With the approval of the Secretary of Agriculture, the Board may appoint a qualified inspector and designate officers of county humane societies, societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals, and licensed
veterinarians to act as its agents and make inspections.
HEALTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE
In March 2006, the Maryland Horse Industry Board appointed the Health Advisory Committee. In the aftermath of an outbreak of equine herpes virus in Maryland, the Committee advises the Board on issues of equine health and disease in the State, and ensures that effective communication channels are established throughout the horse industry. The Committee also is to review emergency preparedness protocols; State policy on reportable equine diseases; State statutes and regulations concerning equine health; interstate equine health requirements; and the capabilities of the Maryland State Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratories.
MARYLAND ORGANIC CERTIFICATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Maryland Organic Certification Advisory Committee was formed by the Department of Agriculture in 1992 to advise the Department on the certification of organic products. For the Secretary of Agriculture, the Committee reviews applications for organic certification; recommends regulations to govern organic producers, processors, distributors, and retailers; and reviews and comments on complaints referred to the Committee.
TOBACCO AUTHORITY
Created in 1947, the Tobacco Authority investigated and studied tobacco marketing and production in Maryland (Chapter 61, Acts of Special Session of 1947). The Authority provides information about the tobacco price structure and recommends legislation to provide more efficient handling of tobacco. Along with buyers and commission agencies, the Authority has a voice in fixing marketing periods, and it assures the accuracy of weights and measures used by tobacco commission selling agencies.
The State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners dates to 1894 (Chapter 273, Acts of 1894). The Board examines candidates for licenses to practice veterinary medicine in the State and judges their qualifications. Annually, it registers veterinarians and at least every two years inspects veterinary hospitals (Chapter 58, Acts of 2008). Upon complaints of illegal or unethical practices or sanitary violations, the Board may conduct hearings and pass judgment upon the charges. Court proceedings may be instituted by the Board against persons engaged in illegal practices.
VETERINARY TECHNICIAN COMMITTEE
In 1984, the Veterinary Technician Committee
organized as part of the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners (Chapter 640, Acts of 1984). Subject to Board approval, the Committee registers and regulates veterinary technicians. It determines the qualifications for applicants, recommends the content and form of examinations, and establishes continuing education requirements for veterinary technicians. The Committee also defines duties and responsibilities of registered veterinary technicians.
![[photo, Animal Health Laboratory, 1840 Rosemont Ave., Frederick, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/10dag/images/1198-1-1490.jpg)
ANIMAL HEALTH SECTION
Duties of the Animal Health Section began in 1884 when the position of veterinary inspector was created to suppress disease in livestock and prevent epidemics (Chapter 157, Acts of 1884). Today, the Section safeguards the health of horses, food-producing livestock, and poultry, and works to control and eradicate diseases that economically affect producers or pose a threat to humans (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 3-101 through 3-503). The Section also monitors new diseases which could be transported into Maryland from another state or country.
![[photo, Grain silos, Wye Mills, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/36loc/qa/images/1198-1-2431.jpg)
FOOD QUALITY ASSURANCE
Origins of Food Quality Assurance trace to the Field Inspection Service that functioned when the Department of Agriculture was created in 1972. The Service was one part of the Division of Inspection and Regulation by 1975. It was replaced by 1981 with the Grading Services and Egg Inspection Section of the Office of Animal Health and Consumer Services. In 1992, the Grading Services and Egg Inspection Section merged with the Grain Laws Section to form Egg Inspection, Grading, and Grain. It was renamed in 1997 as Grading Services, Egg Inspection, and Grain Laws, and assumed its present name in December 2004. Food Quality Assurance oversees three separate programs of inspection, certification, and licensing.
Grading Services Program. The Program conducts a voluntary certification program for producers and processors of numerous agricultural commodities, including poultry, eggs, fruits, vegetables, soybeans, and grain. Samples of agricultural commodities are evaluated for conformity with U.S. Department of Agriculture standards for quality, size, labeling, and packaging. Graders supervise the official identification of commodities meeting the established criteria (Code Agricultural Article, secs. 10-501 through 10-909).
MARKETING & AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT
Marketing and Agricultural Development began as the Division of Marketing when the Department of Agriculture formed in 1972. By 1983, the Division was renamed the Division of Agricultural Development and Marketing and, by 1985, the Office of Agricultural Development and Resource Conservation. In 1987, it became the Office of Marketing and Agricultural Development. It reorganized as Marketing in 1992 and received its current name in 1995. Programs include projects to improve quality and enhance presentation of agricultural commodities to the consumer; international marketing; and a consumer marketing information program (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 10-101 through 10-204; 10-501 through 10-504; 10-601 through 10-606; 10-701 through 10-708; 10-801 through 10-807; 10-901 through 10-909).
![[photo, Tractor pull event, Cecil County Fair, Fair Hill, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/10dag/images/i005421b.jpg)
AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Formed in 1996, the Agribusiness Development Program assists persons starting or expanding agriculture-related businesses. Individualized help is available to develop business plans, obtain financing, meet State and federal regulatory requirements, and market products.
Formerly Domestic Marketing, National Marketing adopted its present name in 2005.
SEAFOOD MARKETING & AQUACULTURE DEVELOPMENT
Seafood Marketing and Aquaculture Development promotes increased distribution and consumption of Maryland seafood and also seeks to reduce its cost and improve its quality and marketability. The agency's Maryland Seafood Directory lists processors, wholesalers, distributors, and seafood market suppliers of seafood and aquaculture products.
AQUACULTURE COORDINATING COUNCIL
In 1988, the Aquaculture Coordinating Council originated as the Aquaculture Advisory Committee (Chapter 534, Acts of 1988). In consultation with the Senate Economic and Environmental Affairs Committee and the House of Delegates Environmental Matters Committee, that committee proposed legislation to promote a major aquaculture industry for Maryland's tidal waters. In 1990, Committee recommendations helped create the Maryland Seafood and Aquaculture Loan Fund for expanding aquaculture or modernizing the seafood processing industry (Chapter 511, Acts of 1990). In June 2005, the Committee reformed as the Aquaculture Coordinating Council (Chapter 405, Acts of 2005).
The Aquaculture Review Board formed in June 2005 to coordinate and develop statewide policy for aquaculture and to streamline the permitting process (Chapter 405, Acts of 2005).
Within the Department of Agriculture, the Seafood Marketing Advisory Commission organized in 1987 (Chapter 308, Acts of 1987). The Commission assists Aquaculture Development and Seafood Marketing.
U.S. DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS SERVICE, MARYLAND FIELD OFFICE
The U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service, Maryland Field Office originated as the Statistical Reporting Service in the mid-19th century and became the Agricultural Statistics Service in 1986. In August 2005, it adopted its current name in accordance with nationwide practice.
WEIGHTS & MEASURES SECTION
In 1641, the first Maryland law to regulate measures was enacted (Chapter 2, Acts of 1641). At that time, the county sheriff was entrusted with the responsibility. When the Department of Agriculture formed in 1972, the Office of Weights and Measures began its work under the Division of Inspection and Regulation. By 1975, the Office reformed as the Weights and Measures Section. The Section maintains and safeguards the State's primary standards, as well as secondary standards and equipment, for the enforcement of Maryland's Weights and Measures Law. The Section's Metrology Laboratory provides a wide variety of highly sophisticated measurements and calibrations in mass, volume, length, and thermometry.
OFFICE OF PLANT INDUSTRIES & PEST MANAGEMENT
Wayne A. Cawley, Jr. Building, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401 - 8960
PESTICIDE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Pesticide Advisory Committee was formed as the Governor's Pesticide Council in January 1990 (Executive Order 01.01.1990.02). The Governor established the Council
in response to concern about the use of pesticides and their potentially damaging effects on people, wildlife, and the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The Council reviewed pesticide management programs and recommended actions to safeguard the health of citizens and the environment. Pesticide manufacture, transport, storage, use, and disposal also were considered by the Council. In addition, the Toxics Management Strategy of the Chesapeake Bay Agreement was evaluated by the Council (Executive Order 01.01.1993.21; Executive Order 01.01.1997.05).
FOREST PEST MANAGEMENT SECTION
The Forest Pest Management Section began by 1975 as the Forest Pest Management Program and the Gypsy Moth Control Program within the Pest Management Section of the Division of Plant Industries. In 1987, Forest Pest Management and Gypsy Moth Control merged to form the present Section. The Section protects forests and landscape trees by eradicating or controlling certain insect (particularly gypsy moth) infestations and disease. The Section also monitors forest health.
MOSQUITO CONTROL SECTION
Functions of the Mosquito Control Section date back to 1961 when a program of mosquito control was administered by the State Board of Agriculture. Today, the Section provides statewide mosquito control services through a cooperatively funded program. Branch offices are located in Riverdale, Salisbury, and Hollywood, Maryland. Environmentally compatible methods of pest management are used to control mosquitoes. In addition to implementing control measures, the Section monitors the environmental impact of the program, develops new control methods, and conducts epidemiological investigations of mosquito-borne diseases (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 5-401 through 5-405).
PESTICIDE REGULATION SECTION
Administration of the Pesticide Applicators Law started in 1973 under the Division of Entomology. By 1975, the work continued under the Pest Management Section. A separate Pesticide Applicators Law Section formed in 1980 and became the Pesticide Regulation Section in 1987.
PLANT PROTECTION & WEED MANAGEMENT SECTION
In June 1997, the Plant Protection and Weed Management Section formed when the Plant Protection Section merged with the Weed Control Section. Programs for plant protection and weed control were part of the Division of Plant Industries when the Department of Agriculture began in 1972. The Plant Protection and Weed Management Section administers programs for nursery inspection, plant protection and quarantine, integrated pest management, and noxious weed control.
STATE CHEMIST SECTION
The office of State Agricultural Chemist was created in 1847 to help farmers rejuvenate worn-out tobacco land (Chapter 249, Acts of 1847). The Chemist analyzed soil throughout the State, as well as marl and other mineral or vegetable deposits applied as fertilizers, and lectured and publicized his findings. During the guano boom of the 1840s and 1850s, a Guano Inspector also analyzed all guano imported through Baltimore to ensure that farmers got that for which they paid. Modern equivalents of such duties are carried out by the State Chemist Section.
TURF & SEED SECTION
As early as 1888, the General Assembly enacted legislation to protect farmers from unscrupulous seed salesmen making fraudulent claims. By 1912, the Seed Inspection Service formed to enforce the Maryland Seed Law. The Service reorganized in 1972 as the Turf and Seed Section within the Department of Agriculture. Today, the Section works to assure the availability of sufficient quantities of certified turf and seed. It directs and conducts certification programs by which turf and seed are produced to meet standards of purity, variety, germination, and other quality factors. From the evidence of field inspections or laboratory analysis, the Section rejects seed or sod not meeting certification standards.
OFFICE OF RESOURCE CONSERVATION
Wayne A. Cawley, Jr. Building, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401 - 8960
NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT
Separated from Program Planning and Development in July 2000, this office oversees implementation of the Water Quality Improvement Act of 1998 (Chapter 324, Acts of 1998) which mandates nutrient management on Maryland farms. To protect and improve the health of Maryland waterways, the Act established strategies for reducing nutrient levels in streams and rivers feeding the Chesapeake Bay. The Program helps individual farmers plan nutrient management of animal waste, sludge, and commercial fertilizers. It also trains, certifies, and licenses persons who provide this service.
NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Nutrient Management Advisory Committee began in 1992 (Chapter 137, Acts of 1992). Nutrient management concerns soil fertilization and determining the amount, placement, timing, and application of animal waste, commercial fertilizer, sludge, or other plant nutrients to prevent pollution and maintain productivity. Appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, the Committee advises the Department on certification and licensing of nutrient management consultants (Code Agriculture Article, secs. 8-801 through 8-806).PROGRAM PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Organized in 1989, Program Planning and Development supports the State Soil Conservation Committee and the Office of Resource Conservation by planning, developing, and coordinating policy, programs, and public information. Soil and water conservation is coordinated with soil conservation districts, and agencies and organizations with related programs.
STATE SOIL CONSERVATION COMMITTEE
Established in 1937, the State Soil Conservation Committee works to stop soil erosion and nonpoint source pollution, conserve soil, and protect water quality (Chapter 436, Acts of 1937). Through twenty-four soil conservation districts covering the entire State (except Baltimore City), the Committee coordinates district work to apply scientifically sound and practical conservation measures ("best management practices") to Maryland lands. For each district, the Committee appoints four of the five persons who serve on a local board of soil conservation supervisors.
RESOURCE CONSERVATION GRANTS
Resource Conservation Grants started in 1989 as the Conservation Grants Section. In 1992, the Section was renamed Resource Protection Incentives, and in 1994 received its present name. Resource Conservation Grants administers the Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share Program.
RESOURCE CONSERVATION OPERATIONS
Resource Conservation Operations began in 1989 as an outgrowth of the Soil Conservation Administration. It reorganized as Resource Management Services in 1992 and resumed its earlier name in 1994.
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