Maryland Agriculture Council, Inc.
The Maryland Agriculture Council, Inc. was founded in 1970 with a mission to promote Maryland agriculture and to educate the public on its importance. The Council is committed to ensuring and promoting a viable agriculture industry in the state under the leadership of a board of directors representing the broad scope of agriculture.
The Taste of Maryland Agriculture is the Council's annual signature event, attracting hundreds of industry leaders from across Maryland's agriculture sector to network with elected officials and promote the state's #1 commercial industry. The Council also offers a grant program to support agriculture education initiatives and works to advance annual legislative priorities.
Maryland Agriculture Council Board of Directors
The business and affairs of the Maryland Agriculture Council are managed by the Board of Directors. Directors are elected for two-year term and may succeed themselves. Directors must be members of the Council (paid attendees of the annual event) and nominations must be submitted in writing no later than 45 days prior to the Annual Meeting in April.
President Robert "Robbie" Miller**
Vice President Vanessa Finney*
Secretary Kayla Griffith*
Treasurer Henry Brandt*
Past President Faith Elliott Rossing*
Executive Director Susan G. Summers
Assistant Executive Director Gail P. Yeiser*
Board Members
Robert Black*
Melissa Bolyard**
Jeb Burchick**
Belinda Burrier**
Rob Cooper*
Jennifer Cross*
Kevin Donnelly*
Karen Engel*
Zach Evans*
David Gordon**
George Grillon*
Mike Harrison Jr.**
Doug Lechlider*
Jenell McHenry*
Crystal Brumme Pickett*
Joe Pippin**
Chuck Shuster**
Terrie Shank**
Kim Smith**
C. John Sullivan III*
Matt Teffeau**
Putt Willett**
Scott Youse*
* 2-year term expires 2026
** 2-year term expires 2027
2025 Legislative Priorities
AGRICULTURE EDUCATION: Food, fiber and fuel, produced by the agricultural community, are essential to every human being. Requiring agriculture education for public school students from K-12 is vital to bridging the gaps of understanding and appreciation for this very basic science.
EXPANDING AND IMPROVING RESOURCES FOR URBAN AGRICULTURE: Urban Agriculture is one of the fastest growing sectors in Maryland Agriculture. Urban farmers need the tools and assistance to remain viable as we diversify our food supply chain to ensure greater food resiliency in Maryland.
RIGHT TO FARM: Maryland farmers are under the most restrictive water quality regulations in the country. To meet these requirements, crop protectants are essential. Farmers need many options in their toolbox to follow the state and federal regulations while combating an ever-changing climate.