2020-2021 Agriculture and Food Systems Program
The University of Maryland Agriculture and Food Systems (AgFS) Extension Program serves the leading private industry in the state. In 2017, the market value of Maryland crops and livestock sold exceeded $2.4 billion and contributed $8.25 billion to the Maryland economy.
The AgFS Program conducts applied research and provides educational programs for the production and marketing of grains, oilseeds, horticulture, floriculture, poultry, dairy and beef cattle, sheep and goats, equine, and other livestock, helping producers adopt new technologies and practices to improve profitability. As an example, Maryland agriculture has worked to conserve resources and improve water quality through new management practices such as cover crops and nutrient management planning.
Program Impacts
- Increasing agricultural literacy
- Increasing sustainability and profitability
- Matching local food production and demand
- Enhancing the value of open space in urban and rural areas
- Ensuring food security and minimizing hunger
- Developing alternative enterprises
Program Areas
- Animal science
- Farm and agribusiness management
- Fruit and vegetable production
- Integrated programs
- Ornamental horticulture
- Row crop and forage production
- Urban agriculture
- Pesticide safety and training
- Nutrient management