Rural Communities | University of Maryland Extension

Updated: March 27, 2025

University of Maryland Extension Winter Meeting Data 2022 (FS-2022-0642)

The University of Maryland Extension (UME) Agriculture and Food Systems team organizes annual winter agriculture production meetings to provide updates on the latest research and practices in various areas, including agronomy, vegetable, fruit, and forage production, as well as urban agriculture systems. These sessions also offer recertification opportunities for pesticide and nutrient management. The meetings attract a wide audience of participants, including farmers, industry professionals, government, and nonprofit representatives, fostering networking and knowledge sharing. To assess the impact of these meetings, the team implemented a survey to gather demographic, production, and economic data from participants. The survey results provide valuable data on production practices and profitability. Authors: Shannon Dill, Serena Taylor Newton, Andrew Kness, and Jennifer Rhodes; Title: University of Maryland Extension Winter Meeting Data 2022 (FS-2022-0642).

Updated: March 27, 2025

University of Maryland Extension Winter Meeting Data 2023-2024 (FS-2024-0744)

This publication highlights the impact of the 2023-2024 UMD Extension (UME) Winter Agriculture Production Meetings, focusing on participant engagement, preferred learning methods, and the adoption of recommended agricultural practices. Survey results demonstrate how these meetings support farmers in improving crop production, pest and nutrient management, weed control, precision agriculture, and on-farm research participation. Authors: Shannon Dill, Sarah Hirsh, Serena Newton, Hemendra Kumar, Kurt Vollmer, Nicole Fiorellino, and Andrew Kness, Title: University of Maryland Extension Winter Meeting Data 2023-2024 (FS-2024-0744).

Updated: September 15, 2021

Farmers Advise Farmers: Maryland Farmers

Have problems with trespassers? Do nonfarm neighbors complain about foul odors? Have you ever been threatened with a lawsuit because of your neighbors? Are you being blamed for causing traffic congestion? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you are not alone. Conflicts between farmers and their non-farm neighbors are on the increase. Especially in Maryland, which ranks fifth among the 50 states in population density.

Farm women standing in front of a tractor and children sitting on thier toy farm equipment

Updated: September 15, 2021

Welcome to the Neighborhood: Living in a Rural Community

There are many ideas that come to mind when imagining a rural community—quaint towns, expansive cropland, and cattle contentedly grazing. But at times living in a rural community is not always as picturesque or convenient. This can be due to services that may or may not be available, industry in the area, and transportation. In rural communities one of the largest and most important industries is agriculture.