Maryland Farm Bureau Highlights Key Agricultural Issues Before State Lawmakers

T​he Maryland Farm Bureau testified Tuesday, January 21, before the Maryland House Environment and Transportation Committee, outlining major challenges currently facing agriculture across the state.

Testifying on behalf of the Farm Bureau was Kimmi Lyons, a Harford County cattle farmer and member of the organization’s board of directors. Lyons told lawmakers that while agriculture plays a vital role in feeding communities, preserving open space, and supporting Maryland’s economy, farmers are facing increasing financial and regulatory pressures.

Among the key issues raised were the need for consistent funding for cover crop programs and the Maryland Agricultural Cost-Share Program, which help improve soil health, protect water quality, and support Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts.

Lyons also highlighted concerns over land preservation, noting that demand for the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation continues to exceed available funding, putting productive farmland at risk of being lost to development.

Other priorities included balancing the state’s renewable energy goals with food security, with concerns raised about large-scale solar projects being built on limited farmland, and strengthening wildlife management tools to address crop damage caused by growing deer populations.

The hearing was chaired by Marc Korman and Vice Chair Michele Guyton. Additional testimony was provided by representatives from the Delmarva Chicken Association, Horizon Farm Credit, the Maryland Grain Producers Association, and the Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts.
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The Maryland Farm Bureau says it will continue working with state lawmakers throughout the 2026 legislative session to advocate for policies that support the long-term viability of Maryland’s farming industry.