Dozens of Montgomery County farmers recently met with U.S. Senator Ben Cardin. The meeting took place at the Agricultural History Farm Park, which is home to the County Office of Agriculture located at 18410 Muncaster Road in Derwood.
Jeremy Criss, director of the County Office of Agriculture, moderated the session in which Senator Cardin addressed concerns of farmers locally and nationwide. Senator Cardin actively works on farm issues in Congress.
The farmers emphasized that the process for migrant workers from other nations, especially those who intend to work in the U.S. only seasonally has become increasingly difficult. This makes it harder for County farmers to work their land and harvest their crops.
Senator Cardin indicated he is aware of the needs of farmers to have broadband access to operate better in a digital world. Montgomery County is currently working to obtain federal and state funding to expand broadband in the County’s Agricultural Reserve.
Senator Cardin praised Maryland farmers for taking steps—some of them costly—to protect the Chesapeake Bay and said the actions of Maryland farmers are the main reason the health of the Bay has greatly improved.
To learn more about Montgomery County’s farm economy, go to montgomerycountymd.gov/agservices/.