Moore signs executive order to expand opportunities for farmers

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Gov. Wes Moore signed an executive order crafted to promote Maryland’s agricultural sector and expand economic opportunity for farmers throughout the state, the governor’s office announced Monday. 

The measure aims to revise and expand the Governor’s Intergovernmental Commission for Agriculture, designed to promote collaboration and business-friendly practices for the economic enhancement, growth and profitability of Maryland’s agriculture industry.

The success of Maryland will rely heavily upon the success of farmers across the state, Moore said in a statement. 

“This order expands a commission that’s been the key forum for Marylanders to develop new solutions to challenges in agriculture for 20 years,” Moore said. 

“And here’s the upshot for our farmers: stronger partnerships, greater measurements of economic growth, and a state that is unified in its approach and nimble in its execution.”

Joined by state political leaders and agriculture industry leaders, Moore completed the signing at Boordy Vineyards in Baltimore County. 

The executive order modifies the Governor’s Intergovernmental Commission for Agriculture — rescinding a similarly fashioned executive order signed by former Gov. Bob Ehrlich in 2006 — and addresses issues like soil health, food production and agritourism. 

The executive order will double the size of GICA by bringing six additional agencies “to the table” and calls on the Maryland Department of Agriculture to promote agricultural literacy, among other initiatives.

“I welcome the addition of these agencies to the commission and look forward to continuing the important work GICA does,” Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks said. 

“I thank Governor Moore for continuing his strong support of the ag industry in Maryland.”

Additionally, Moore’s executive order directs GICA to develop intergovernmental goals, coordinate economic development activities, make policy recommendations and report annually to the governor on its efforts to support a statewide agricultural strategy, according to the governor’s office.