Washington AgFS

Agriculture & Food Systems in Washington County

The Agriculture and Food Systems (AgFS) program provides research-based education and technical assistance to support Maryland's agricultural industry. Educational programs are designed for commercial producers, agricultural businesses, landowners, and individuals interested in agriculture.

Extension educators connect university research with practical solutions that help improve farm productivity, profitability, and environmental stewardship through workshops, field demonstrations, publications, consultations, and other educational resources. 

Learn More About UME AgFS Programs

UME Areas of Expertise

  • Crop production and management
  • Livestock and poultry production
  • Fruit and vegetable production
  • Commercial horticulture
  • Farm and agribusiness management
  • Beginning farmer education
  • Urban agriculture
  • Nutrient management
  • Pesticide safety and certification
  • Soil health and conservation practices

AgFS Resources & Newsletters          AgFS Meetings & Events 

Washington County Agriculture & Food System Programs

Washington County is located in the Appalachian Mountains, stretching from the Ridge-and-Valley Country in the west to South Mountain in the east. Its rolling hills are home to 151,000+ humans, 40,000 beef cattle, 11,000 dairy cattle, 3,400 hogs, 2,500 sheep, and 78,000 laying hens. Washington County's major crops are corn, wheat, soybeans, and alfalfa, and the region leads the state in apple production. UME Washington County offers a variety of AgFS workshops and programs, including special annual programs such as the Annual Pesticide Recertification and Nutrient Management Training. Learn more below or by contacting our office.

UME AgFS Program Areas

Agricultural Nutrient Management

Nutrient management planning and training to optimize crop production while protecting water quality. 

Animal Science

Educational resources for livestock and poultry production, animal health, and environmental stewardship. 

Farm and Agribusiness Management

Education in farm business planning, marketing, agricultural law, financial management, leadership, and beginning farmer success. 

Fruit and Vegetable Production

Research-based information on crop production, pest management, and sustainable growing practices. 

Horticulture Production

Commercial production practices, pest management, and greenhouse and nursery crop management. 

Nutrient Management and Pesticide Safety

Training on responsible nutrient applications, pesticide safety, certification, and regulatory compliance. 

Ornamental Horticulture

Best management practices and emerging technologies for commercial nursery and landscape production. 

Poultry Production

Educational programs on poultry health, flock management, biosecurity, and production efficiency.

Row Crop and Forage Production

Production recommendations for grain and forage crops that support profitability and natural resource conservation. 

Urban Agriculture

Educational resources for urban farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs. 

Extension AgFS Resources

The University of Maryland Agriculture and Food Systems team provides a variety of agricultural education programs and resources. Explore them all.

More Washington County Extension Programs