McGinnis Family from Baltimore County to Receive Maryland’s Prestigious Agriculture Award

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ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 8, 2026) ~ ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 8, 2026) - The McGinnis family of Baltimore County has been selected as the recipient of Maryland's prestigious Agriculture Award. Governor Wes Moore and Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks announced that the family will be inducted into the Governor's Agriculture Hall of Fame for 2025. The official ceremony will take place at the 56th Annual Taste of Maryland Agriculture event on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Maryland Live! Casino and Hotel.

According to Governor Moore, "The McGinnis family truly embodies the spirit and dedication of Maryland agriculture. With a history spanning over six generations, their farm has made significant contributions to our communities, preserved our natural resources, and bolstered our state's economy. Recognizing families like the McGinnis family is essential as we celebrate agriculture, Maryland's largest industry that represents our heritage and future."

Established in 1991 by former Governor William Donald Schaefer, the Governor's Agriculture Hall of Fame honors agricultural leaders who have made remarkable contributions and demonstrated steadfast commitment to the agricultural sector and their local communities. Nominations are gathered through local University of Maryland Extension offices.

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Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks stated, "It is a privilege to welcome the McGinnis family into the Governor's Agriculture Hall of Fame. Their legacy of agricultural innovation, community service, and advocacy underscores their crucial role in Maryland's agricultural success. Their dedication not only highlights their commitment to farming but also inspires future generations to continue this essential work."

The Taste of Maryland Agriculture event is organized by the Maryland Agriculture Council and is considered the state's premier agricultural celebration. It brings together industry leaders, state officials, and national legislators. This year's event is expected to have nearly 900 attendees who will have the opportunity to sample a variety of Maryland agricultural products throughout the evening. This includes offerings from local beer, wine, and cider producers. In addition to honoring the McGinnis family, the event will also feature 11 exceptional programs receiving Maryland Agriculture Council Educational Grants.

Tickets for the event are currently available for $100 per person if ordered before January 10, 2026. After that date, individual ticket prices will increase to $130 and then to $150 after February 1, 2026. Reservations can be made via credit card on the Maryland Agriculture Council's website or by visiting their website for mail-in options.

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For further information, please contact Maryland Agriculture Council Executive Director Susan Summers at 240-446-3601.

The McGinnis family proudly stands as the 58th inductee into the Governor's Agriculture Hall of Fame. Full profiles of each Hall of Fame family are available on the Maryland Department of Agriculture's website.

The McGinnis family has a rich agricultural heritage dating back to the 18th century. Samuel McGuinness immigrated from Ireland and purchased land in Chester County, Pennsylvania before moving to what is now Baltimore County in 1881. Since then, the McGinnis lineage has been dedicated to farming, dairy, and poultry production.

Under the guidance of Wayne McGinnis, who took over full-time operations of the family farm in 1968, the transition from traditional dairy farming to a successful Angus cow-calf operation has marked the family's legacy. Complemented by crop production, the McGinnis family has expanded its agricultural impact significantly over the years.

Education is a cornerstone of the family's values with all three children - Anne, Jay, and Brett - pursuing agricultural degrees and actively contributing to the farm's ongoing success. Their commitment extends beyond their own agricultural endeavors as they are deeply involved in various community and agricultural organizations promoting sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

Erika Crowl, Senior Agent Associate for Baltimore County said about the McGinnis family: "The McGinnis family is a long-standing pillar in the farming community. Families like theirs play a crucial role in maintaining sustainable farming practices and educating future generations about the importance of agriculture. This award truly reflects their contributions to the Baltimore County agriculture community."

Filed Under: Government, State

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