ANNAPOLIS, MD (September 22, 2025) ~ The Maryland Agricultural Commission, an advisory body to the Maryland Secretary of Agriculture, has recently undergone significant changes in leadership and membership. The Commission, which represents a diverse cross-section of the state's agricultural community, is responsible for offering guidance and recommendations on key issues affecting farmers, rural communities, and the broader industry.

At a meeting held on September 22, 2025, the Commission announced the election of new leadership and the expansion of its mission and membership. These changes reflect the Commission's ongoing commitment to promoting a dynamic and prosperous future for Maryland agriculture.

Amy Crone, who has been a member of the Commission since 2020 representing Direct Farm Market, was elected as Chair. With an extensive background in agricultural marketing and senior nonprofit leadership dedicated to advancing farmers markets statewide, Crone brings valuable experience to her new role. She is also a graduate of LEAD Maryland, a statewide leadership program focused on identifying and developing leaders in agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities.

More on Marylandian

• Powerful Points Illustrate Highly Undervalued Stock Price for Global Communications Leader: IQSTEL, Inc. (N A S D A Q: IQST)
• Award-Winning Motorcycle Documentary Angels Of Dirt Celebrates Women Racers Now Available Online
• PlaceBased Expands NYC Presence with Strategic DOOH/OOH Asset Growth and Appoints OOH Industry Veteran Scott Nemeroff as EVP of National Accounts
• Maryland Department of Agriculture Announces Electric Vehicle Charger Registration
• MedWand® Solutions Telehealth System Poised to Help States Win Share of $50 Billion in Rural Health Funding

Kelly Lewis was elected as Vice Chair. Lewis has been a member of the Commission since 2022 representing the Nursery industry. With over 30 years of experience at Ruppert Nurseries in leadership, team building, and horticulture, Lewis brings valuable expertise to his new role.

Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks commended the Commission for their dedication to the state's agricultural industry. He also expressed his support for the newly elected leadership and their commitment to advancing Maryland agriculture.

These leadership elections coincide with the enactment of HB262/SB240 - mission-focused legislation passed into law following the 2025 Legislative Session and signed by Governor Wes Moore. This bill expands the perspectives within the Commission by adding several key new seats representing Controlled Environmental Agriculture, Socially Disadvantaged Farmers, Veterans in Agriculture, Urban and Small Farmers, and New & Beginning farmers. This change ensures that a wider range of voices from different sectors within agriculture are represented at the highest levels of state government.

More on Marylandian

• CCHR: Why Psychiatric Detainment and Drugging Cannot Deliver Public Safety
• NFL Yearbook Advertising Deal Signed Across 25 Stadiums for AI Powered Sports, Entertainment and Gaming Leader: SEGG Media $SEGG
• Os Hillman, SheepFeast Launch TGIF: Generations for Next-Gen Marketplace Leaders
• Community Redevelopment Inc.Signs Gold Production Contract with Mine CA Gold Ltd.,
• Lake Norman Philharmonic Free Concert Opens 2025-2026 Season

The Commission is excited to welcome these new members and looks forward to working collaboratively with them to advance Maryland agriculture. In addition, the Commission announced the publication of the 2025 Maryland Young Farmer Survey results. This survey provides a comprehensive look into the experiences, challenges, and ambitions of the next generation of agriculturalists across the state.

The data collected and analyzed in the survey highlights the need for strategic support for young farmers from various state agencies and partners in the agricultural industry. It also emphasizes the importance of including young farmers in discussions about agricultural policies and opportunities. As a result, the Maryland Young Farmers Advisory Board will now be adopted into the Maryland Agricultural Commission as its Committee on Young Farmers. This transition solidifies the commitment to integrating young farmers into the core of the state's agricultural policy and decision-making.

The Survey results and analysis documents can be found on the Young Farmers Advisory Board's page on the Department's website. Those interested in serving on the Ag Commission in one of these new seats are encouraged to contact Harrison Palmer, Executive Secretary of the Maryland Ag Commission at harrisonb.palmer@maryland.gov. With these changes, it is clear that Maryland is dedicated to promoting a thriving future for its agriculture industry by ensuring diverse representation and support for its farmers.

---

Show All News | Report Violation