“Innovations and Technological Solutions Addressing Challenges Impacting Northeastern Maryland Agri-Business” held today in Aberdeen, Md.
ABERDEEN, Md. (April 26, 2011) – Local farmers, growers, agricultural professionals and livestock and dairy producers from across Northeastern Maryland met today with researchers from the USDA Agricultural Research Services (USDA-ARS) and the University of Maryland to discuss critical issues in Northeastern Maryland’s family community. Hosted by the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) and the USDA-ARS, attendees of the Maryland Rural Agricultural and Business Innovation Forum learned about energy crops and energy production, cattle and dairy farming advancements and solutions, deer and small woodland management and small farm equipment.
"It is essential for Maryland's Northeastern agricultural population to understand and embrace innovative technologies and solutions that will support the industry as we transition into the new economy," said Governor Martin O'Malley. "We honor the dedication and hard work of every farmer in this state. I'd like to thank TEDCO and the USDA for bringing people together to discuss these vital issues. Together, with continued partnership, we can work to shape a more sustainable and economically viable agriculture to keep Maryland smart, green and growing."
Attendees learned about commercially-available technologies that can sustain their businesses, such as energy production through the growth of field/winter barley and wind and solar production. The topics of genetic chips and regional slaughterhouse facilities were also discussed to help improve current cattle and dairy farm operations.
The forum included a networking luncheon that allowed attendees to speak directly with scientists from the USDA-ARS, University of Maryland Extension, University System of Maryland and local agri-business people. The luncheon featured real-life case studies on how agricultural community members can increase profits to drive economic growth within the state. TEDCO and the USDA-ARS also presented information on funding opportunities available to help farmers and growers adopt the solutions and technologies presented at the forum.
This forum was the fourth in a series through TEDCO’s Rural Business Innovation Initiative (RBI2). RBI2 is designed to enhance technology commercialization activities and provide technical and business assistance to small and early-stage companies in rural Maryland. Other forums have been held in Western Maryland, Southern Maryland and the Lower Shore.
“TEDCO recognizes the great economic development potential of Northeastern Maryland’s agriculture industry,” said Rob Rosenbaum, president and executive director of TEDCO. “Today’s forum provided local farmers with a wealth of information on how they can advance their businesses. TEDCO looks forward to continuing to support this community as they take advantage of modern farming practices.”
The Maryland Rural Agriculture and Business Innovation Forum was funded from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SBA’s funding should not be construed as an endorsement of any products, opinions, or services. All SBA-funded projects are extended to the public on nondiscriminatory basis.