ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 23, 2025) ~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Department of Agriculture has recently released a comprehensive publication, the Statewide Guidance and Analysis Document for Value-Added Agriculture and Agritourism. This document, a result of collaboration between multiple state agencies and local engagement, aims to provide a baseline understanding of the complexities involved in regulating agricultural enterprises as they expand into consumer-facing and value-added processing functions and operations.

According to Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks, value-added agriculture and agritourism are not just emerging trends but are vital components of the state's agricultural future. These industries have a significant impact on Maryland's economy and rural communities. The department hopes that this guidance document will foster an environment where these businesses can thrive and innovate for generations to come.

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Agriculture is Maryland's largest commercial industry, contributing approximately $8.25 billion annually to the economy and covering nearly 2 million acres of the state in 2022. Despite its economic impact, the industry faces challenges such as a decline in total farms and farmland. However, value-added agriculture, which includes processing and agritourism, presents significant opportunities for growth and sustainability for next-generation farming operations.

The newly released guidance document addresses existing policies, language, and processes across multiple regulatory levels. It identifies challenges and opportunities related to the growth of these vital industries throughout Maryland. Some key objectives of the document include untangling complex regulations that may hinder industry growth, familiarizing local and state officials with important trends in Maryland's agricultural industries, identifying definitions and concepts that pose challenges for recognition and regulation of trending industries while ensuring public safety, health, and environmental protection.

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Additionally, the document aims to introduce consistent concepts for value-added agriculture and agritourism in Maryland both now and in the future. It also showcases successful benchmarks and provides regulatory recommendations to support economic growth in these sectors.

Through extensive outreach with county-level agricultural professionals across all counties in Maryland, including Baltimore City, the department has gathered valuable insights into the complexities and challenges faced by these unique and emerging industries.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture is committed to streamlining regulations and supporting the expansion of value-added agricultural operations. They recognize the critical contribution of these industries to Maryland's economy, environment, and communities. For more information about Maryland's value-added sector, interested parties can contact State Value-Added Agricultural Specialist Martin Proulx at (443) 924-0329 or martin.proulx@maryland.gov.

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