Agriculture & Food Systems in Somerset 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 

Somerset County Agriculture & Food System Programs

Somerset County, at the southernmost tip of Maryland's Eastern Shore, is home to nearly 286 farm businesses spanning 65,212 acres of farmland, with an average farm size of 228 acres. Somerset County ranks 3rd in Maryland in agricultural value for corn, soybeans, broilers, vegetables, and livestock, and leads as #1 in the state for broiler poultry production. UME Somerset County offers a variety of AgFS workshops and programs to support the region's farming and agricultural industry. Learn more below or by contacting our office.

Animal Science & Poultry Production

UME offers educational programs on animal sciences, poultry health, flock management, biosecurity, and production efficiency. Learn more.

Farm and Agribusiness Management

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

Crop, Fruit, Vegetable, & Horticulture Production

Row Crop and Forage Production

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

 

Fruit and Vegetable Production

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

 

Horticulture Production

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

Extension AgFS Resources

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