American farmers produce the safest, most wholesome and most affordable food in the world. Any government agency dealing with food safety should not release information to the media unless substantiated and accurate.
     We urge the media to be accurate and unbiased in the reporting of food safety issues. Any media and/or organization responsible for distributing accusations of health risk not based on credible scientific data should be held liable for losses to producers, processors and subsequent retailers.
     We encourage the local press to devote more space to agricultural articles and information regarding the local farm community.
     We urge the Maryland Cooperative Extension, Maryland Experiment Station and the Maryland Department of Agriculture to develop positive programs to promote Maryland agriculture to the public through various media outlets.
     We recommend that all agricultural organizations develop promotional campaigns that would:
     1. Educate the public about the importance of a viable agricultural economy.
     2. Correct misconceptions concerning farm practices.
     3. Promote the importance of preserving farmland as it relates to the health of the environment.
     4. Encourage farm tours, farm-city festivals and educational displays.
     5. Include a speakers bureau.’08