COMMODITY PROMOTION AND MARKETING
 

Farmers’ Markets
    We strongly encourage the continuance of all farmers markets. ’07

Grain Dealers
    We recommend that all grain dealers in the state of Maryland should have certified grain-testing personnel. We request that samples taken for moisture tests be free and clear of foreign materials. We support the voluntary establishment of standards for moisture discounts, which separate shrinkage, and the drying cost and which are not tied to the price paid for the grain. ’05

Labeling Requirements
    Since the risk of illness from unpasteurized cider is no greater than the risk of illness from any other food source, we do not support any labeling of cider beyond whether or not it is pasteurized. ’07

MDA & State Government Marketing Efforts
    Efficient marketing programs are necessary for any successful agricultural enterprise. We urge the Governor and legislators to support the Maryland Department of Agriculture's efforts to improve marketing services. We support the “Maryland’s Best” marketing program. '02

    We urge the Maryland legislature to adequately fund MDA marketing programs that serve all citizens.’07

    We strongly encourage the Maryland Department of Economic Development to continue its policy of providing financial support for the promotion of our agricultural industries.’06

    We support substantially increased efforts by the government to expand the number of markets and buyers for Maryland agricultural commodities. ’05

Deep Water Terminal
    We support a viable grain export terminal.’07
   
    The State of Maryland must work diligently to develop a competitive grain trade deep water terminal, which is critical for the survival of grain producers. ’07
   
    We urge the creation of more storage capacity for fuels in the Baltimore area. ’05

Roadside Markets
    We oppose legislation that attempts to prohibit roadside vending of our agricultural products.’06

Roadside Signs
    Due to the need for the farmers to diversify their operations the use of roadside signs is imperative to let the public know your location and which products are available. Therefore, we support exempting such signs from the regulations governing roadside signs. ’06

Traditional and Organic Agricultural Products
    We oppose any segment of the farm community promoting their production methods as healthier or better for the environment without evidence to support those claims. ’06