Women in Agriculture | Non-Alcoholic Drinks | Innovation Grants Awarded In partnership with Frederick County Office of Agriculture | Supplement to Frederick Magazine
FREDERICK COUNTY LAUNCHES 2025 AGRICULTURAL STRATEGIC PLAN
By Katie Stevens Director, Frederick County Office of Agriculture
Agriculture has always been at the heart of Frederick County—it’s part of our history, our economy, and our way of life. From family farms passed down through generations to new and innovative operations, farming here is more than just a business; it’s a commitment to feeding our communities and keeping our rural traditions alive.
To help ensure that agriculture continues to thrive, the Frederick County Office of Agriculture has launched the 2025 Frederick County Agricultural Strategic Plan, which is all about supporting our farmers, strengthening local food systems and making sure agriculture remains a cornerstone of the economy.
This forward-thinking plan was developed with direct input from more than 100 members of our local agricultural community—farmers, producers, indus-
try experts and stakeholders, all of whom understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing modern agriculture.
The plan lays out a roadmap for enhancing the success of the agricultural economy through key strategies, including:
• Strengthening Local Supply Chains— Addressing gaps in infrastructure and market access to ensure that our farmers can efficiently process, distribute and sell their products within the region.
• Encouraging Innovation & Collaboration—Fostering partnerships among farmers and agribusinesses to implement cutting-edge practices and explore new market opportunities.
• Supporting Agricultural Viability & Growth—Expanding programs that help new and existing farmers thrive, ensuring
that agriculture remains a competitive and sustainable industry in our county.
• Engaging the Community—Strengthening public awareness and appreciation for locally grown products, reinforcing the importance of agriculture in our economy and daily lives.
Through our magazine, website, and social media, Homegrown Frederick and the office of agriculture provide a platform to share the stories of Frederick County agriculture—connecting consumers with farmers, showcasing local businesses, and fostering a greater appreciation for the bounty that our land provides. Whether it’s through farm profiles, industry updates or features on emerging agricultural trends, we remain committed to being a resource and advocate for our agricultural community.
I invite you to check out the Frederick County Agricultural Strategic Plan and learn how you can help sustain Frederick County’s agricultural roots. Whether you’re a farmer, a local food lover or just someone who appreciates wide-open spaces and fresh produce, we all have a role to play in shaping the future of farming here.
For more information, visit www.frederickcountymd.gov/AgPlan to explore the Agricultural Strategic Plan.
It’s a familiar situation—a cocktail hour, a night out with a few work friends, a long awaited reunion. At almost any adult gathering, everyone has a drink in their hand. For whatever reason you’re not having alcohol, a restriction that can leave someone with surprisingly few options. Hydrate with some tap water? Guzzle down sugary or chemical-sweetened soda? If you’re lucky, the bar makes mocktails, or they might have a bit of spare juice.
The fact of the matter is, those who don’t drink alcohol are always a bit of a nightlife afterthought. Fortunately, here in Frederick County, multiple businesses are going out of their way to change how people think about non-alcoholic (NA) beverages. These entrepreneurs view NA drinks not just as a way to expand their product lines, but as a service for those who want more, better tasting alternatives—an unexplored niche that they are passionate about exploring.
“There are a lot of people showing up that say they want something more than just the alcohol,” says Adam Frey, owner of Frey’s Brewing, Frederick County’s first operational farm brewery. Frey’s has a little bit of everything when it comes to drinks, including beer, wine, hard cider, moka pot coffee, and, of course, non-alcoholic beer. “Don’t get me wrong, I love beer, and I love wine, but [...] if you’re drinking and talking to customers for eight hours straight,
There are a lot of people showing up that say they want something more than just the alcohol. —Adam Frey “ ”
you’re not gonna sound so hot.”
Frey’s doesn’t currently brew their NA beer on tap but has found a different way into the alcohol-free game. The farm already serves cocktails with their beer and wine as the bases, and zero proof whiskey, tequila, and gin from Ritual brand to complete the lineup. From there, it was an easy step to begin developing NA mocktails.
Adam Frey
“We do have a lot of pregnant customers and such that show up and don’t want to have any alcohol,” says Frey, “and it’s perfect for them because they can feel like they’re drinking an adult beverage without it being full of alcohol...So it resonates with people.”
Frey explains that the alcoholic and NA cocktails take about the same amount of work to develop, as well as the same amount of fun. “We just came up with one last month, it’s called a Whiskey Fizz, and it’s basically orange syrup, Ritual zero proof whiskey, and Sprite.” Frey’s next step is to come up with a completely sugar-free non-alcoholic drink, which isn’t as easy as it sounds. “The flavors just get kind of wonky when you’re introducing stuff like aspartame or some of the other sugar-free ingredients. So, we’re trying really hard to figure something out. One bartender, she’s made it her mission to come up with that one and I’m rooting for her.”
On another note, it’s well known that cider can be often found on tap as a replacement for beer or wine. It’s easy to forget that the only difference between traditional and hard cider is time, and home-brewed apple cider is a classic for a reason. With no alcohol to get in the way of the taste, it’s easy to appreciate the
drink’s natural sweetness, and cider, using the entire apple, including the core, is fuller and richer than juice. It’s as refreshing as any fruit-based drink fresh out of the fridge, and is often brewed fresh with cinnamon and cloves, making it a wonderful hot drink in the depths of winter.
One of Frederick County’s numerous cider-making businesses is Scenic View Orchards. Although the orchard itself is a more recent addition, the family has been farming the land since the mid-1800s. Today they offer a variety of farm-grown products, including honey, fruit, vegetables and apple products such as dried apples, apple butter, applesauce and of course cider. They sell it wholesale, directly from their Sabil-
lasville farm and at farmer’s markets in Frederick, Washington and Montgomery counties.
Of course, not everyone likes apples. But it’s hard to deny the natural sweetness of honey. Kemptown Honey, a local family apiary, sells raw honey, beeswax, propolis—and they cook some of their honey into a simple syrup. “You use a simple syrup to make cocktails,” explains owner Sara Robins, “but ours is citrus flavored. It’s a blend of five organic citrus juices and Frederick honey—our honey, and we also get honey from other people… It works really well as a replacement for orange liqueur in cocktails.”
The syrup is a perfect ingredient for making cocktails or mocktails, leaving the consumer with honey’s iconic sweetness, and Kemptown Honey is excited to dig down further into this niche. Robins is hard at work on the next simple syrup flavor, with local ingredients driving her inspiration. “We’re thinking Lavender Lemon for the next one. There’s several [local] lavender farms. I’d like to do
rosemary as well, and then a hot honey. And I would love to be able to use local peppers for that.”
So far, all of the drinks discussed have been a kind of alcohol substitute, either replacing the booze directly, or creating an appealing alternative to an existing drink. However, there is a popular beverage out there which already has the potential to function as a non-alcoholic standard, all on its own. It’s rich, fermented, carbonated and flavorful, and there’s already dozens of established varieties—in fact, you might already have a favorite.
Sara Robins
—Liz Dodson “ ”
I grow a lot of the berries and herbs right here on my farm because my background is in horticulture.
Enter Liz Dodson, otherwise known as The Kombucha Lady. Dodson fell in “love at first sip” with Kombucha when it first entered the market as a health drink in the early 1990s. When the product was suddenly pulled off shelves due to, ironically, poor storage techniques causing it to become slightly alcoholic, she became determined to
learn how to make it herself.
She went on the Internet and ordered herself a scobie—a “symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast,” essentially a kombucha starter. Soon she had formed her own home brewery, and in the 2010s, after increased demand from friends and family, Dodson says she thought, “this is gonna be a good little business.” Then with fear and trepidation, she called the health department.
These days, The Kombucha Lady is a thriving local enterprise, though still a small operation, fermenting 40-gallon batches out of a commercial kitchen built by Dodson’s contractor husband, which the two of them call The Booch Barn. “I am very small—I like to keep it small. I grow a lot of the berries and herbs right here on my farm because my background is in horticulture.”
Liz Dodson
A certified herbalist, Dodson is passionate not just about flavor, but about getting more healthy ingredients into drinks. Her newest flavor in development is a combination of peach and dandelion tea. “These past couple of weeks we’ve been working on the recipe for the peach tea and then getting the right amount of peach tea and dandelion tea in there.”
One day, while selling her wares at a local market, Dodson met a woman who would go on to redirect The Kombucha Lady’s mission, working with Dodson part time. The woman was a recovering alcoholic who loved to go out with her friends and didn’t drink soda. Together, the two set about getting kombucha into local restaurants. Now The Kombucha Lady is on tap at Frederick Social, and
they’re working on getting into area breweries and distilleries.
Right now, Dodson is hoping to push more into this area and move away from her current strategy of wholesaling, making and selling her kombucha in jars. She considers kombucha to still be in the education phase, working to build awareness and create demand. Right now, it’s about getting people to see if they like it before they even consider it as a replacement for other beverages. Hopefully, it will become something people know to ask the brewery or distillery, “hey, why don’t you guys get kombucha on tap?”
Besides a lack of alcohol, all of these varied drinks have a couple of things in common—strong, memorable taste, and passionate creators. They are working to put the flavor of NA beverages front and center for the first time, to make them a selling point and cornerstone, as opposed to a simple surrogate. By entering this market, local businesses are signaling not just a drive to create an alternative to standard night out drinks, but an ambition to change what a night out tastes like.
CHANGING THE NARRATIVE
Women lead charge for change in male-dominated industry
By Colin McGuire
Belinda Burrier, Allie Bennett and Alison Stewart already have a lot in common. There’s the fact that they are all female leaders in Frederick County agriculture—an industry historically dominated by males. There’s also the common thread of resolve, determination and grit that each exudes. Then there’s the intangible element of com mitment to their craft with which all three appear to be born. Above all that, however, is one similarity that’s atop the rest.
None of them thought the farm was where they’d end up.
“I married into this 22 years ago and my parents were like, ‘Wow, I can’t believe you are doing that,’” Burrier, of Burrier’s Linganore Farm in Union Bridge, recalls recently.
“But farming is now the longest job I’ve ever had. Before this, you name it, and I did it. I learned how to be a surveyor from my dad. I bartended. I worked at a sewing factory, learned to engrave guns and knives with a hammer and chisel. It’s a long list, believe me.”
Bennett, of Bull Frog Sod in Adamstown, says, “I was getting ready to go off to vet school, but I met my husband, and we just decided to stay in Maryland and get married and start a family. I ended up getting a master’s in nutrition when my husband said the sod farm is for sale. He asked me if I wanted to move onto it and run it. I wasn’t in the ag world at that point, but I thought I’d learn it. I’ve done a lot of hard things, and I felt confident I could learn how to run a sod farm.”
At Deer Run Farm in Emmitsburg, Stewart confesses, “This was not something I always want ed to do— not at all. I always wanted to be a graphic designer. My husband saw that Whitmore
Farm put their heritage chickens up for sale and he asked me if I wanted to take it over. I knew absolutely nothing about chickens, and I thought it was a joke. But we went down to their farm, and I was like, ‘I can do this! This is fun!’ That was on a Friday. On Monday, I quit my job as a graphic designer.”
And so it went. Three women with little-to-no experience on the farm found themselves in lives fully engulfed by career paths they once never even considered. Was it for the best? Could they make it work? And—at least in the case of Stewart—what, exactly, was a heritage chicken anyway?
allie bennett “ “
I’ve done a lot of hard things, and I felt confident I could learn how to run a sod farm.
A ‘Life’s Calling’
At 65 years old, Burrier came into farming later in life than most others. Still, that didn’t stop her from becoming one of Maryland’s top agriculture advocates, ultimately landing a position on the United Soybean Board after being the first woman ever to serve on the Maryland Soybean Board (USB). As
belinda burrier “ “
farming is now the longest job I’ve ever had. Before this, you name it, and I did it.
the chairperson of the USB’s communications committee, she’s traveled the world, visiting 10 countries (if you include the Panama Canal, as she says with a chuckle).
These days, most of her focus is on social media advocacy for farmers. Her most utilized platform is LinkedIn, which she notes is “more professional” than the other options out there. Her role within the community is to foster connections, she explains, building on countless contacts throughout her years traveling on behalf of USB.
“I talked to some friends on the soybean board who were doing a project in Iowa and they wanted to get all 50 states involved,” Burrier says. “I told them I could help get them states. That’s the kind of thing I do. Being at the state and national level, I can connect people and make it all work.”
While Burrier’s travels exposed her to different farming techniques throughout the world, she maintains that Maryland is essential to this country’s agriculture industry. Anyone can farm just about anything in the Old Line State, she notes, and in her experience, Maryland has led the way in conversations
about an array of agricultural issues nationwide.
For a woman who didn’t even consider farming as a career path until she navigated her way through countless jobs and one divorce, she now stands as one of the leaders driving essential conversations about the industry—even if she’s one of the few females doing it in a crowd of men.
“This does seem like it’s my life’s calling,” she reflects. “My grandmother was 103 and my grandfather lived to be 100, so if I can stay in at least half the condition they were in ... even if I can’t physically do it, I want to be here at the farm and rent space out so people could be farming around me.
“Really,” she continues, “there’s no ending for me.”
Feeling Empowered
Similar to Burrier, Bennett was introduced to farm life by her husband. In Bennett’s case, however, her husband doesn’t spend his days in the field with crops, animals and everything in between; instead, he works in agriculture insurance. For the longest time, the Bennetts admired the Chuck Wade Sod Farm from afar, so when it entered the market, Bennett
was quick to say yes when her husband floated the idea of buying it and running it.
The only problem? Bennett knew nothing about sod.
She knew she had to get to work. One of her biggest assets was the farm’s lone employee, John, who was happy to teach her everything he knew. Now more than three years into the venture, she looks back on those initial days with a sense of accomplishment knowing that when she was faced with the prospect of sinking or swimming, she managed to keep her head above water.
“The scariest part was feeling like I didn’t know anything, but I realized it’s just a matter of learning as you go along,” she admits. “And it was more fun learning like that versus trying to just read as much as I could online. It worked out.”
One thing not lost on Bennett is the fact that she was able to pull everything together while also being a woman in what she said has typically been a man’s world. At once intimidating, her confidence in both her work and success has evolved into something that she didn’t always see coming.
“Now, it’s empowering,” she says. “It’s empowering know-
ing I’m outnumbered but also knowing I’m doing so well. I feel proud of being a woman and taking everything over. I do the books, the marketing, the invoicing, I answer the phones. It’s kind of crazy.
“I have two boys and they’re very much mama’s boys,” she adds, referencing her sons. “The thing about it is that they see me working in this industry every day. They witness that and that sets a great example for them because boys need to see that women are capable of doing a man’s job. I want them to know that they shouldn’t pigeonhole people, and I want them to see what women can do with their lives.”
Family Is the Future
While Bennett and Burrier took hard left turns into agriculture, Stewart’s story is a little different. She never had much of a background in farming, yes, but she also always had an affinity for animals—so much so that one of the first things her husband offered when they met was the chance to pet a cow. From there, Stewart began pitching in where she could on his farm, feeding the cows, cleaning up manure and helping with other tasks.
Meanwhile, Stewart grew tired of her graphic designer job and felt the burn of want ing to run her own business. She grew up an athlete and the residue of the competi tive fire from those moments never quite extinguished. She knew nothing about farming and nothing about heritage chickens, but she refused to let that stop her from getting the job done.
“I had questions from people who were like, ‘Tell me about this breed,’ and I had no idea,” Stewart recalls. “So, I was put on extreme overdrive to learn everything I could about chickens. In one year, I went from knowing nothing about them to being a walking, talking chicken encyclopedia.” Though her mother thought she was crazy because she wasn’t officially using her graphic design degree, Stew art argues that her degree helped in other ways when it came to the farm—most notably in branding and marketing. Her talents as a writer helped as well because before long, Stewart applied for grants, which helped fund projects while ensuring the farm could stay debt free.
It’s been about seven years since Whitmore Farm transi
tioned its poultry operation over to Stewart’s land, and these days, she has no prob
same team. I think we’re already in a better state than we were when it was just a male-dominated industry.
“Most of the time, remember that it’s a husband and wife coming together with the same dream in the first place,” she continues. “For farming to work in the future, it’s going to have to be a family effort.”
In one year, I went from knowing nothing about them to being a walking, talking chicken encyclopedia. alison stewart “ “
Bryce Yocum & Kate Orellana Murillo
Agriculture is the backbone of Frederick County, and to help maintain that distinction is the need to foster the next generation of agriculturists. Leading the way are innovative ag programs in local schools, 4-H and FFA programs, plus agricultural incentives and grants from local and state government, all designed to keep agriculture viable.
A prime example is the environmental school in northern Frederick County, started by a group of community members who began brainstorming in 2019 to get it started, spearheaded by a parent, Alisha Yocum of Sabillasville. “The group of founding members had to write a charter school application, which included developing the school mission, formulating a plan for staffing, determining curriculum, providing a five-year financial plan and doing a crosswalk between the state standards and our curriculum for each grade level,” Yocum says. “The application was then reviewed by Frederick County Public Schools staff and eventually brought before the board of education for a vote.”
The Sabillasville Environmental School officially opened in 2022 with grades K through 6th grade. In 2023 and 2024, grades 7th and 8th were added. As president of the SES Board of Directors, Yocum credits the outpouring of community support for helping to get the charter school started. “One of our goals was to provide families with an alternative option to a more traditional way of teaching through the use of classical curriculum,” she explains. “And, of course, what we felt was missing in today’s education was the opportunity for kids to get outside and get their hands dirty.”
All Frederick County students are eligible to attend the charter school that involves an application, and selection is based on a lottery. Nearly 200 students are enrolled at SES. The charter is focused on classical education, as well as agriculture and environmental
science, with some of the curriculum and agricultural standards developed by SES Principal Sheena Talley and staff.
“The rich history of agriculture throughout Frederick County and the increased interest over the past several decades regarding the environment has created a need that SES fulfills,” says SES counselor Konnar Pruett. “We are able to provide modern education with classical the-
Anne Fitts & Owen Steele
ories, while providing more hands-on learning opportunities. Sabillasville has the opportunity to take students who have a passion for agriculture, or ones who have no knowledge, and offer some exposure through their curriculum, and see where they bloom.”
Pruett says that since their charter’s focus is environmental, they are able to take their curriculum standards and create hands-on learning that is more applicable to their students on a daily basis.
“Where students in public schools grow a seed in a cup, here each grade plans, plants, and grows a garden,” she says. “Where other schools have one career day a year, Sabillasville holds a monthly “theme” day or field trip that focuses on different topics like pollination, ecosystems and planting. We are able to expose our students to careers, professionals, businesses and experiences where they can see their learned knowledge in action.”
Ag Business Class
Introduced
Not only is the Sabillasville school making an impact on county students and growing their knowledge of agriculture and environmental science, but New Market Middle School (NMMS) has a new Agricultural Business class for sixth graders.
Lori Dubbs-Nissel, NMMS librarian is in her first year teaching the agribusiness course elective. Currently 32 students are enrolled.
“NMMS is situated in a rural or semi-rural area, so agriculture plays a significant role in these student’s daily lives,” Dubbs-Nissel says.
“Many of my students are involved in 4-H or live on a farm. They are very interested in the topics in the class because they can relate to what we are covering, Plus, I like to think the class is fun.”
The pilot program for the agribusiness course came during the 2023-24 school year. Now in its second year the course is offered at all middle schools in Frederick County. The class description includes careers in agriculture, food, and consumer services and offers an exploration of agribusiness, emphasizing leadership, ethics, and work habits specific to the agricultural industry.
“Students will delve into the world of agriculture and food by learning about its nutritional value and experience hands-on experience in food preparation, while gaining financial literacy experiences,” Dubbs-Nissel shares. “The project-based approach includes team-
Enzo Lodati & Hazel Williams
work, marketing challenges, and financial adventures.”
While 6th graders are learning about agribusiness, high school students as well as 7th and 8th graders are participating in the FFA. The FFA is an agricultural student leadership program established back in 1928. For nearly 100 years students have not only been learning about production agriculture but sharpening their leadership skills as well.
Once called the Future Farmers of America, the organization changed its name to the FFA in 1988 to reflect the growing diversity in agriculture and careers in science, business and technology of agriculture.
“Every school in our county with an FFA program sees the benefits,” says Richard Stonebraker, Frederick High School Agricultural Teacher and FFA advisor. “As the nation’s oldest career and technical student organization, the FFA reaches far beyond the classroom. It’s not just about preparing students for careers in agriculture — it’s about developing leaders, change-makers and a workforce grounded in purpose.”
Stonebraker’s family has deep roots in agriculture so becoming an agricultural teacher was a natural path for him. He also credits his high school agricultural teachers and FFA advisors for shaping him into the person he is today. “What makes FFA truly unique is the way it instills values, traditions, and life lessons that are increasingly rare in today’s world,” he explained. “Students in our program learn the meaning of hard work, grit, and determination — lessons that will serve them well no matter where life takes them.”
Carter Staub
According to the local teacher, the National FFA Association does an outstanding job highlighting the vast range of over 300 career opportunities within agriculture from production to science, communications to sales, and marketing to mechanics. “The possibilities are endless,” Stonebraker says. “High school FFA programs are not only engaging students in these fields, but they are also actively inspiring them to explore careers they may have never considered before. Through hands-on experiences, leadership development, and real-world exposure, FFA helps students see how agriculture touches nearly every part of our lives. It’s more than just farming — it’s innovation, sustainability, and the future.”
The ag educator says what’s really exciting is how FFA is reaching students in both urban and suburban settings, not just rural areas. “Agriculture is everywhere, and FFA is showing students from all backgrounds how they can make an impact — whether it’s in ag science labs, food systems, technology, environmental conservation, or agribusiness. The program truly opens doors for every student, no matter where they come from.”
Stonebraker sees some major trends in ag education with growing emphasis on agricultural science and technology, diversity of student backgrounds, career readiness and mental health and well being. “It’s an exciting time to be in agricultural education — we’re evolving with the industry and helping shape students who are ready to take it into the
future,” he says. “FFA members also gain a deep sense of responsibility, work ethic, and pride in being part of something larger than themselves. The values they develop — like integrity, perseverance, and service — stay with them long after they leave high school. In short, FFA helps students find their voice, build their future, and realize that they truly have the power to shape the world around them.”
‘Making the Best Better’
Not only is FFA shaping young people into future leaders, but the 4-H program starts mentoring kids as early as five years old in the 4-H Cloverkid Program. Once children are eight, they officially can join 4-H where they are engaged in hands-on projects, leadership, skilled contests, and more. The largest youth organization in the world, the 4-H program was established in 1902, and is committed to their motto, “Making the Best Better.”
Frederick County has two 4-H Extension Agricultural Educators, Erin Kline and Anna Glenn, who manage the county’s youth program. “While I didn’t grow up in 4-H, personal experiences helped develop a deep respect and admiration for farmers and everyone involved in helping them grow the best food possible,” Kline says.
The Extension agent believes 4-H plays a vital role in engaging young people in agriculture and inspiring them to pursue careers in the field. “Through hands-
on experiences and valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals, 4-H exposes youth to a wide range of agricultural career paths, helping them make informed decisions about their futures,” Kline says.
There are currently 596 youngsters enrolled in Frederick County 4-H with 149 volunteers helping run 26 different 4-H clubs. Although 4-H has dozens of project areas not specifically related to agriculture, about 70 percent of Frederick County’s 4-H members have agriculturally related project areas such as livestock, poultry and gardening.
“Whether a child is enrolled in an agricultural project or not, all 4-H’ers are engaged in life-skills development, which is ultimately the main goal of the 4-H program nationwide,” Glenn says. “Our goal is to use whatever project area a youth is interested in as a means of helping them grow in skills such as leadership, character, empathy, problem-solving, and teamwork.”
According to Glenn, the future of agriculture in the county is recruiting more youth to enter the agricultural field as the average age of farmers continues to grow.
“Something we can do to keep the next generation interested in agriculture is to increase hands-on learning
experiences at a young age, something I think 4-H and FFA are already doing a great job at here in Frederick County,” she says. “We can also spark interest by making sure youth have access to continue their education in agriculture through internships, mentorships, and industry partnerships that help students see the variety of career paths beyond traditional farming.”
The 4-H program remains a place where kids connect, grow, and develop real-world skills. “Seeing a young person step out of their comfort zone, accomplish something new, and realize their own abilities is what makes this role so rewarding,” Glenn adds.
In addition to working with 4-H members, the local ag educators say they stay busy going into classrooms throughout the county teaching agriculture and life skills. Some of their main programs include School House Chicks, The Wonderful World of Grains, Agricultural Olympics, career days, summer school and camp and library programs.
While 4-H, FFA, and agricultural courses in schools continue to mold youth into more productive citizens, there are also many programs to help young adults continue their interest and passion in agriculture which will insure a future for agriculture in Frederick County.
There are various USDA grants; state resources and support from the Frederick County Office of Agriculture; ag land conservation programs; and the Next Generation Farmland Acquisition Program.
“Agricultural education is more important than ever — not just in Frederick County, but across the state and the entire country,” says Stonebraker. “In Frederick County, where agriculture has been the cornerstone of the local economy and culture for generations, ag education helps preserve that legacy while also preparing students for the modern realities of the industry.”
Richard Stonebreaker
Rosie Jones & Mattee Lambert
Filling Plates WITH Local Fare
In the search to find food that hasn’t traveled thousands of miles, Frederick County residents have options ranging from weekly markets held during the growing season or Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) enterprises where you share in whatever bounty the farmer produces. The following are resources for fresh-from-the-farm-to-the-table offerings:
Farmers Markets Make Meals Happen
FARMERS MARKETS
Brunswick Main Street
Farmers Market
E. Potomac at 1st Avenue, Brunswick April 11 through Oct. 31, second and last Fridays.
Brunswick Indoor Market
Downtown Brunswick, Dec. 12 through March 13, second Friday of the month 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Downtown Thursday Market
331 N. Market St., Frederick, April 17 through Nov. 20, Thursdays, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Emmitsburg Fun, Farm and Family Days
201 W. Lincoln Ave., May 17, July 19, Aug. 23 and Sept. 20, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Field Fresh Farmers Market
The Frederick Fairgrounds, Lot A, 797 E. Patrick St., April 26 through Nov. 22. Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Frederick City Market
331 N. Market St., Frederick, May 11 through Nov. 23, Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Frederick Farmers Market
1215 W. Patrick St., Frederick, April 26 through Nov. 22, Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Middletown Farmers Market
12 S. Church St., Middletown, May 1 through Oct. 16, Thursdays, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Myersville Farmers Market
301 Main St., Myersville, April 26 through Oct. 25, Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon.
Myersville Indoor Market
301 Main St., Myersville, Nov. 15 through April 4, first and third Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Thurmont Main Street Market
19 Frederick Road, Thurmont, May 24 through Sept. 27, Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon.
Urbana Library Market
9020 Amelung St., Frederick, May 18 through Oct. 26, Sundays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
YMCA of Frederick Market
1000 N. Market St., Frederick, May 20 through Oct. 27, Tuesdays, 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Eaters Acres
301-304-0505
www.eatersacres.com
Fox Haven 240-490-5484
www.foxhavenfarm.org
Good Soil Farm LLC 443-536-1830
www.goodsoilfarmllc.com
House in the Woods Farm
301-461-6575
www.houseinthewoods.com
The Little Red Wagon Produce
240-439-9401 info@thelittleredwagon.us
Moon Valley Farm 410-207-0241
www.moonvalleyfarm.net
COMMUNITY
SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE (CSA)
Chestnut Hill Farm & Market
240-734-2021
www.chestnuthillfarmmarket.com
Open Book Farm 240-457-2558
www.openbookfarm.com
Pleasant Hill Produce 301-471-2699
www.pleasanthillproduce.com
Sycamore Spring Farm
301-788-6980
www.sycamorespringfarm.org
Thanksgiving Farms 301-662-1291
www.thanksgivingfarm andgarden.com
ORCHARDS
Catoctin Mountain Orchard 301-271-2737
www.catoctinmountainorchard.com
Country Pleasures
301-371-4814
www.willowoakscraftcider.com
Gaver Farm
301-865-3515
www.gaverfarm.com
Pryor’s Orchard
301-271-2693
www.pryorsorchards.com
Scenic View Orchards
301-271-2149
www.scenicvieworchards.com
WET YOUR WHISTLE
FREDERICK
A BEACON
IN THE LIBATION SEARCH
Maryland has more than 1,400 acres of grapes being turned into wine. Frederick County is front and center with many vineyards located here. The county is also home to a growing number of breweries and distilleries, many relying on local growers to provide ingredients to make their products special and in many cases award-winning. Visit www. homegrownfrederick.com to view a map of locations.
ATTABOY BARREL HOUSE
24 S. Wisner St., Frederick www.attaboybarrelhouse.com
ATTABOY BEER CO.
400 Sagner Ave., Suite 400, Frederick www.attaboybeer.com
BLACK ANKLE VINEYARDS
14463 Black Ankle Road, Mount Airy www.blackankle.com
BREWER’S ALLEY
124 N. Market St., Frederick www.brewers-alley.com
CATOCTIN BREEZE VINEYARD
15010 Roddy Road, Thurmont www.catoctinbreeze.com
CELEBRATION CELLARS WINERY
9831 Fox Road, Frederick www.celebrationcellarswinery.com
DRAGON DISTILLERY
1341 Hughes Ford Road, Suite 108, Frederick www.dragondistillery.com
Agriculture grant program a hit among local farmers
By Colin McGuire
Who knew that washing vegetables could be so expensive? Casey-Mae McGinley did...
Good Soil Farm in Emmitsburg received funds through the Frederick County Agriculture Innovation Grant Program to install a vegetable washing station.
Launched in 2021, the Agriculture Innovation Grant Program has awarded more than $1.6 million to local businesses, leveraging $5.64 in private investment for every $1 in county funding.
As owner of Good Soil Farm in Emmitsburg, McGinley was looking to make the customer experience easier. To do so, she wanted to make sure people didn’t have to go home and wash the vegetables they buy from Good Soil because until this year, that’s what consumers were expected to do. This year, however, that will change. Thanks to the Frederick County Agriculture Innovation Grant Program, McGinley was able to secure two separate payments—one for $7,000 and one for $5,000. As a result, when her
“We are actually going to hire someone to be in charge of washing all the veggies because it’s not something we’ve been able to do before. The money from this grant will help our customers a lot.”
— Casey-Mae McGinley owner, Good Soil Farm
farm’s veggie harvest is ready to go in the spring, those vegetables will now be cleaned by a three-bay stainless-steel sink and a 10-gallon stainless steel salad spinner.
“The stainless steel will make it easier to keep the equipment clean,” she explains. “We are actually going to hire someone to be in charge of washing all the veggies because it’s not something we’ve been able to do before. The money from this grant will help our customers a lot.”
Launched in 2021, the Agriculture Innovation Grant Program has awarded more than $1.6 million to local businesses, leveraging $5.64 in private investment for every $1 in county funding. In a recent cycle, the program received 21 applications requesting more than $850,000. The county awards the grants twice a year as a means to help agricultural businesses expand and diversify their operations.
McGinley is one of many farm owners who have benefited from the program. Be it a drone, an herb dryer or the ability to provide kegged wines, the money has issued a shot of adrenaline into the Frederick County farming community.
“This grant has really helped a lot of county farmers,” says the Director of Frederick County’s Office of Agriculture, Katie Stevens. “I think people are just so thankful for this grant and knowing that the county supports agriculture in this way. We hear great things about it every day.”
Casey-Mae McGinley is one of many farm owners who have benefited from the program. Be it a drone, an herb dryer or the ability to provide kegged wines, the money has issued a shot of adrenaline into the Frederick County farming community.
A GREAT TOOL
According to Stevens, the money for the grant comes from the county’s recordation tax. The yearly allotment for it is $250,000, but it’s split into two groups of $125,000 for the spring and fall application windows. The minimum amount for which a farmer can apply is $5,000 while there is technically no maximum.
For now, she says, the committee that reviews and recommends grant awardees to the County Executive tries to stick to a maximum of $20,000 and $30,000 per grant as a means to be able to
support as many farms as possible. The windows for each application session last one month and they kick off on March 1 and Oct. 1. For the March 2025 cycle, the office received 32 applications, which included more than $1 million in funding requests.
“After every round, our team works with the farmers to discuss how they can make the application better,” Stevens says. “One of the biggest pieces of all this is a business plan. We hear from farmers saying that even if they don’t get the grant, having a business plan is worth so much
“It’s a great tool for our local community because it helps farmers create better products.”
— Lacy Walker, farm director at Fox
Haven Organic Farm
to their business moving forward. It allows them to put their ideas into writing and see how things will work from there. It’s an aspect that’s been extremely beneficial for the farmers.”
One of those local farmers is Lacey Walker, the farm director at Fox Haven Organic Farm in Jefferson. While she knew about the grant for a couple years, she only recently believed that the farm was at the stage where they could handle doing something new and innovative. Knowing that it was possible to receive support from the county, she says helped push their plan forward.
As such, Fox Haven was awarded $22,000 to put towards their plan to invest in an herb dryer. Very similar to a grain dryer or a peanut dryer, the equipment essentially amounts to a box in which all herbs are elevated on
a screen while hot air comes up through it and dries the herbs.
Because it’s not a machine they can buy, Walker’s crew had to make it from scratch, which she said is part of the innovative side of their proposal. Though it took all of 2024 to build it, at the end of the day, she noted, the dryer will help the farm provide a shelf-stable product, which includes teas.
“It’s a great tool for our local community because it helps farmers create better products,” she continues. “It helps strengthen the local economy and it keeps everything more local. I’d recommend this to anybody.”
DRONES AND KEGS
Of all the things farmers can use their grant money on, Brian Sweeney’s proposal might be the most fun. Owner of Adamstown’s Calico Ag Services, Sweeney only had to apply once to get his project through—and the end result may end up helping far more farmers than meets the eye. His idea?
An agricultural drone.
Its main use, he says, will be for aerial seeding of cover crops in the fall. In previous years, his company hired custom applicators that used a helicopter to get the job done, but because the drone will lower up-front costs for business, he plans to offer the equipment to other Frederick County farmers and make the service more affordable.
“It might encourage them to try this new mechanism,” Sweeney
Fox Haven Organic Farm in Jefferson was awarded a grant from the innovation program, using funds for an herb dryer and also fencing. Money for these grants comes from the county’s recordation tax.
says. “Cover-crop is popular in Frederick County and this is another way to do that practice. It’s costly. There’s no other provider in Frederick County as far as I know and a helicopter is extremely expensive. I’m excited that I’ll be able to offer a service that could continue to help farmers plant cover crops in uncertain financial times.
“I’m a big fan of this grant,” he adds. “The Office of Agriculture is
an extremely valuable resource for us.”
Down the road in Mount Airy, Melissa Schulte is equally pleased with the program. The general manager of Black Ankle Vineyards realized not too long ago that they needed to accommodate more customers all while maintaining sustainability on the farm. She applied for funds aimed at landing Black Ankle the ability to offer kegged wines.
The herb dryer at Fox Haven, which isn’t a machine you can buy, was built by the crew and will help the farm provide a shelf-stable product, which includes teas.
Receiving about $27,000, the money will lead to the business having to recycle less bottles and free up staff that spends a portion of their time hauling those bottles to recycling facilities. In addition, the keg system will allow the business to change the way they service their customers, making the process more efficient than it was in the past.
“Grants like these are a net positive because it allows small businesses to do things that make their businesses better,” Schulte says. “We wanted to be able to just pour wine directly to customers instead of having to put it in a bottle. This will allow us to do that, and the process itself has been fantastic.”
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
Perhaps the biggest unintended positive consequence of that process has been within the mere action of writing the grants themselves. As McGinley at Good Soil points out, the help from Stevens and her staff not only led to her successful application, but it also served as a crash course in how to construct a successful grant
“I think people are just so thankful for this grant and knowing that the county supports agriculture in this way.”
— Katie Stevens, director of the county’s Office of Agriculture
proposal—a skill she says has proven to be invaluable.
“I never thought I’d be writing grants,” McGinley confesses with a laugh. “This helped me figure out what to do and how to be better at writing grants. We applied for a business builder grant to see if we could receive help getting a delivery van. I would have never done that if I didn’t first know about this grant.”
The effects beyond the money and equipment are not lost on Stevens, either. According to the county’s agriculture director, news of the success of Frederick’s program has traveled so far and so fast that similar grant programs have popped up in
Washington and Howard counties. Even the Maryland Economic Development Association has recognized its worth, naming it “Program of the Year” recently.
It’s all to say that Stevens believes the money will be around for the foreseeable future for farmers looking to innovate and expand. Not only has it become something she’s been enormously proud of seeing through, but she believes its success is also a testament to the hard work the Frederick County farming com-
munity puts in on a daily basis.
“If you had asked me five years ago that all this would lead farmers to where they are now, I wouldn’t have guessed it,” she says. “I did think it would benefit them, but I didn’t think it would lead to other tremendous opportunities for them and others across the county.”
Stevens pauses. “It’s been a game-changer,” she says. “We want everybody to know that they can bring innovation things to life in Frederick County.”
Katie Stevens, director of the county’s Office of Agriculture, says the success of Frederick’s program has traveled so far and so fast that similar grant programs have popped up in Washington and Howard counties.
FINDING IT ALL ON THE FARM PROVES POSSIBLE
Farming continues to play an important part in the local economy with 57.5 percent of the land zoned for agriculture. Increasingly, consumers are seeking fresh, locally-produced food and other products and Frederick County farmers and growers are meeting the demand— whether it’s raising alpacas, beef cattle and heirloom vegetables, or inviting you to pickyour-own fruits and vegetables and enjoy a corn maze and hay ride.
THE FOLLOWING ICON DESIGNATES A SPECIAL FARM FEATURE.
BLACK ROCK FARM
Myersville
443-921-5364 • www.blackrock-farm.com
Jacob and Victoria are first-generation farmers who lead Black Rock Farm. Together they raise Scottish Highland Cattle, hay and seasonal pumpkins. The farm is open to the public by appointment for private Highland experiences as well as monthly cow themed events. Seasonally, they sell pumpkins from a self-serve wagon in rural Wolfsville. Follow their journey on Facebook or Instagram.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
For all Highland cow experiences and events, visit www.blackrock-farm.com for their appointment calendar and tickets.
BARTGIS FAMILY FARM, LLC
1699 Shookstown Road, Frederick
301.606.5754 • www.bffarm.us
Bartgis Family Farm is family owned and operated, raising beef cattle for over 35 years. Their beef is pasture raised without antibiotics or hormones. They mix their own feed with grains harvested on the farm or locally sourced, consisting of corn, barley and oats.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They offer their all-natural, freezer ready beef by the pound, choose your cuts, as well as by the quarters, halves or whole. Visit the website for more details.
BELLE BLOOMS FARM
3311 Paprika Court, Adamstown
240.277.0275
www.bellebloomsfarm.com
Morgan at Belle Blooms Farm grows specialty cut flowers for everyone to enjoy. Join the monthly CSA to experience local flowers through the spring, summer and fall seasons. Buckets of blooms can be purchased for your next event (available seasonally). Event designers can purchase blooms for event work. Local flowers are the best!
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Call or visit the website for information on upcoming workshops, or to purchase bouquets seasonally.
BLACK ANKLE VINEYARDS
14463 Black Ankle Road
Mount Airy
301.829.3338
www.blackankle.com
At Black Ankle Vineyards, they believe that a prime vineyard site marked by rolling hillsides and rocky soils, combined with meticulous care of their vines and land, will yield grapes that make wines of depth, nuance and character. Cozy indoor/outdoor seating fits perfectly in a valley with rolling hills and vineyard views. Wine is offered by flight, glass, bottle and carafe. Entertainment/ events, groups welcome, private event rentals. Refer to website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
All wines are sold at the farm and online. In addition, they have a local fare menu featuring an assortment of hand-selected artisan cheese, spreads, treats and more.
BLUE DREAMS USA
11700 Old Annapolis Road
Frederick • 301.882.4747
www.bluedreamsusa.com
Blue Dreams USA is the first of its kind lavender, roses and tea garden boutique in the country. Surrounded by scenic views, it’s a place you can unwind while enjoying the beauty of lavender, roses and tea gardens on a 25acre farm.
Open to the public on weekends from June to October with special shopping days during the holiday season.
New additions include the Love Train, Umbrella Alley, a prayer garden, butterfly and rose dome, pavillion, and a new home on the farm.
BROOKFIELD PUMPKINS, LLC.
8302 Ramsburg Road, Thurmont 301.898.3527
www.brookfieldpumpkins.com
Brookfield Pumpkins is a pick-your-own pumpkin patch with beautiful views of Catoctin Mountain located just north of Frederick. Many customers start their visit with a hayride to the 15-acre pumpkin patch. They grow about 40 different varieties of pumpkins, gourds and edible fall squashes. Also enjoy the family-friendly Corn Maze for a Cause (100 percent of proceeds are given to local charities), petting zoo, corn tables and countless photo opportunities. Visit their website or follow social media for further information.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Hayrides (Friday – Sunday), petting zoo, corn tables, Corn Maze for a Cause ($), face painting ($, Saturday- Sunday), and apple cider ($).
BRYANT LIVESTOCK, LLC.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They offer pick your own lavender on a limited schedule.
2719 Thurston Road, Frederick 301.788.8279 • www.bryantlive stock.com.wixsite.com/mysite
Built from the aspirations of three sisters, Bryant Livestock LLC stemmed from their extensive 4-H and FFA careers, and is a continuation of their livestock projects. They offer locally raised beef, lamb, pork and goat frozen retail meat products to consumers via farmers markets and the farm’s commercial freezers. Additionally, they breed, raise and sell prospect registered percentage cattle and commercial lambs to local youth, as well as fellow producers.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Officially starting in 2021, they continue to work towards the goal of opening a full-fledged farm store that markets their freezer products and provides another market for other local producers to utilize. In the meantime, they have had the opportunity to frequent farmers markets and attend various community special events as a vendor and a local small farm retail meat producer.
BULLFROG SOD
5455-B Doubs Road, Adamstown
301.662.0736 • www.bfsod.com
Bullfrog Sod is a family-owned and operated sod farm in Adamstown, offering Maryland Certified sod to both contractors and homeowners. Members of the team at Bullfrog Sod pride themselves on their individualized approach to customer service and are happy to help with any questions regarding measuring, laying and caring for your sod. Call anytime and allow them to help you achieve your landscaping dreams.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
CATOCTIN BREEZE VINEYARD
15010 Roddy Road, Thurmont 240.578.3831
www.catoctinbreeze.com
Certification by the Department of Agriculture is the gold-standard when it comes to sod. Bullfrog Sod is Maryland certified and planted, grown, and maintained with the utmost care. Sod is cut to order and every customer provided with a 24-hour freshness promise.
BURALL FARMS
Detrick Road, New Market
227.250.2663
www.burallfarms.com
In the rolling farm fields just on the outskirts of New Market, Burall Farms is operated by a young couple who started their own family farm. They grow corn, wheat and soybeans, and sell hay and straw locally. Their specialty is high quality, homegrown meats. They sell pasture raised, grain finished dry-aged beef plus pork, lamb, and goat which is available at their on-farm market, Burall’s Farmstand. They also offer bulk beef in quarters, halves, and whole shares. Find out more on their website, Facebook and Instagram.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
The Buralls have fully integrated their farm by making fresh feed for their livestock with the crops they grow, then utilizing the livestock manure as fertilizer for their fields. They strive to raise their livestock humanely while being environmentally sustainable as well. They are proud to have their farmstead included in the Peace and Plenty Rural Historic District, honoring the deep rural and agricultural heritage of Frederick County.
Catoctin Breeze is a family-owned vineyard located in the northeastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Formed by ancient Appalachian soil and perpetually cool winds, and produced by hand from field to bottle, their wines are as accessible as they are expressive. They invite you to experience the vineyard, tasting room, and wine in a quaint and intimate setting. In the afternoon, sit on the shaded patio and enjoy the views.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Catoctin Breeze is open Monday-Thursday. Strictly no children and all visitors must be 21 years and older.
CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN ORCHARD
15036 N. Franklinville Road
Thurmont • 301.271.2737
www.catoctinmountain orchard.com
Catoctin Mountain Orchard is a fourth generation fruit, vegetable, and berry farm celebrating more than 55 years in business. One hundred-plus acres produce products sold at the retail market on the farm located off route 15. Pick-your-own crops and flowers are available, including apples, on Saturdays and Sundays in September and October. Call or visit the website for days and hours at their retail farm market.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Products also include plums, peaches, nectarines, apricots, apples, pears, grapes, kiwiberries, blackberries, sweet cherries, black raspberries, tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, peppers, cabbage, kale, fruit pies, cookies, crumb cakes, apple cider donuts, apple butter, cider, honeycrisp apple sauce and local honey. Supplies the school lunch program with fruit.
CELEBRATION CELLARS WINERY
9831 Fox Road, Frederick
240.812.9463
www.celebrationcellarswinery.com
Celebration Cellars Winery is passionate and creative when it comes to wine. They are an intimate destination winery nestled high in the Catoctin Mountains of Frederick. Their wines are hand-crafted in small batches using the same techniques that winemakers have used for centuries but with a modern and playful twist.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They celebrate having eight dry reds with multiple flavor profiles. They invite you to enjoy the million-dollar view while drinking award-winning wines by the firepit, upper deck, or cozy inside fireplace. They are the closest winery to Downtown Frederick.
CHESTNUT HILL FARM AND MARKET, LLC
14343 Stottlemyer Road, Smithsburg
240.734.2021
www.chestnuthillfarmmarket.com
Nestled in Catoctin Mountain and close to Camp David, Chestnut Hill Farm and Market LLC is a sixth-generation farm that has recently diversified to bring fresh produce “From our fields to your table.” With over 40 acres devoted to fruits and vegetables, they offer 60 different varieties of produce. They are committed to providing sustainable, high quality, healthy options.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They also offer beef and swine that are available in cuts, halves and wholes and also have high quality hay available for purchase. This year they are offering a CSA so signup now.
CHOCOLATES AND TOMATOES
7957 Hollow Road, Middletown
571.271.2686
www.chocolatesandtomatoes.com
Chocolates and Tomatoes Farm sustainably grows hundreds of varieties of fruits, herbs and vegetables that they sell in the local community along with their hand-crafted artisan chocolates of many shapes and flavors. Come to their Learning Kitchen (February-December) to discover your inner chef and candy artist. Join them at their market tents (May-September) and order online (February-December). Let them host your small event, commission chocolates and learn more about this small family farm at www.chocolatesandtomatoes.com.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
COPPER PENNY FARM
www.copperpennyfarm.net
Chef and farmer Mark, also teaches culinary arts at Frederick Community College, blending his love for growing and cooking food.
CLEMSONVILLE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
10120 Clemsonville Road
Union Bridge • 410.848.6083
www.clemsonville.com
At Clemsonville’s 250-acre Christmas tree farm you can cut or dig fir, pine and spruce trees, plus get wreaths, swags and tree stands. All trees are $50. The farm dates to 1775 and has a historic mansion copied from George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon. The farm is the home of the Guinness Record-breaking wreaths and “Tiny Clem” a 4-foot evergreen “TO GO.” Pets welcome.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Clemsonville has been a Christmas tradition for over 50 years. Visit the Christmas Barn, explore the nature maze, see Boulder Garden Christmas Wonderland and go to Picnic Park. Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday after Thanksgiving until Christmas 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cut your own firewood, pine tips and boughs—truckload $20. Saws and rope available. Check or cash.
Copper Penny Farm is a small, family-run farm that produces pasture-raised beef, pork, lamb and chicken eggs. They believe in treating their animals with love and affection and allowing them to live as naturally as possible. All of their animals live in large pastures and can move around and forage at will. Animals are never given drugs, such as growth stimulants, hormones or antibiotics, unless medically required. They also produces their own line of hand-made soaps, using the tallow and lard rendered from the animals raised on their farm.Last year they added draft horses to their farm and now work a portion of their fields with horsepower.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Copper Penny Farm’s pasture-raised meat and eggs and hand-made soaps can also be ordered online and delivered, picked up at their on-farm store or picked up at area farmers’ markets. Visit the website for details.
DEER RUN FARM
www.deerrunfarmmd.com
Deer Run Farm is a family owned and operated farm for over 25 years. The Stewart family raises Red Angus for beef, Berkshire hogs for pork and heritage breed chickens for pasture-raised eggs. They also operate a hatchery offering hatching eggs, chicks, started birds and chicken feed throughout the U.S. Deer Run Farm offers an on-farm retail store and has a website for customers to shop.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Deer Run Farm puts Maryland on the map by being the United States’ cleanest, certified disease-free chicken hatchery. They’re the only chicken hatchery in the United States to test regularly for MS, MG, AI and PT.
DREAMLAND CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
2700 Sumantown Road
Middletown • 301.418.5348
www.dreamlandchristmastreefarm.com
Dreamland Christmas Tree Farm is a choose and cut farm in the beautiful Middletown Valley. They also offer pre-cut trees of all sizes. Dreamland was started to honor the reason for the season, the birth of Jesus Christ. They are a family-friendly farm with a beautiful old barn which has been lovingly restored as a Christmas shop. The barn offers a cozy atmosphere including a stone fireplace and wood stove, wreaths, garland, crafts, ornaments, and a café serving hot food and beverages.
ELK RUN VINEYARDS
15113 Liberty Road
Mount Airy • 410.775.2513
www.elkrun.com
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Children love the farm’s turkeys, pheasants, chickens, and playground. Visit weekends from Thanksgiving to Christmas to make this your family’s tradition.
EASTERN PARADISE FARM
Middletown, 508.308.0356
Eastern Paradise Farm, nestled in Middletown, is a family-owned haven dedicated to cultivating a diverse array of Asian produce and providing memorable pick-your-own experiences. Specializing in rare Asian vegetables, fruits and flowers, the farm offers visitors an immersive experience in harvesting, meditation, and field-to-table living.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Eastern Paradise Farm operates on a reservation-only basis. Their website will launch shortly to facilitate bookings for pick-your-own produce, workshops and private events.
Elk Run Vineyards is nestled in the rolling hills of Frederick County, surrounded by dairy and horse farms and fields of wheat and corn. The winemaker’s home is circa 1756. Since 1983 Fred and Carol Wilson and Neill Bassford, family and friends, have made Elk Run a shining star among American wine producers. For the past five years, Julian Wilson has taken on greater responsibility for field management, winemaking, as well as becoming more knowledgeable in new marking technology.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Taking over 800 International, National and Regional awards has made Elk run not only one of the top 100 wineries on the East Coast but the most acclaimed winery in Maryland.
FINGERBOARD FARM
10240 Fingerboard Road
Ijamsville • 833.643.HEMP
www.FingerboardFarm.Market
Fingerboard Farm, located in Ijamsville in the heart of Frederick County, is a woman-owned agritourism destination renowned for its organic, local produce and wellness products. The farm focuses on regenerative agriculture incorporating hemp biochar and compost to build healthy soils while utilizing hemp for carbon sequestration. Their market stocks products from grass-fed meats, local honey, organic jam, free-range eggs and seasonal produce. They are nationally recognized for their CBD wellness products and home grower supplies.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Spanning 25 acres, the farm offers an historic six-bedroom 1789 manor home for short term stays and charming events. Visitors can relish an immersive agricultural experience, meet farm animals, and participate in educational sessions while supporting a local woman-owned business.
FLYING GOAT FARM
5241 Bartonsville Road, Frederick 443.538.8303
www.flyinggoatfarm.com
Flying Goat Farm raises fine wool, sheep and goats using regenerative and sustainable practices. They make, dye and sell beautiful yarn and roving for crafters. Many are Fibershed certified, meaning local fiber, local dyes and local labor. They are open by appointment or on open studio days announced on the website.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They offer classes in dyeing, spinning, weaving, and knitting.
FREY’S BREWING COMPANY
8601 Maplevillle Road
Mount Airy • 240.394.6336
www.freysbrewing.com
Frey’s is a farm brewery and winery nestled in a peaceful valley among the rolling hills of Frederick County. Their restored 1800s bank barn provides a beautiful place to unwind with friends and enjoy a variety of craft beverages, including beer, wine, hard cider, hard seltzer, wine and beer cocktails, signature cold brews, craft mocktails, non-alcoholic beers, and more. Frey’s has a food menu as well, and customers are welcome to bring their own. Dog-friendly. Open to patrons 16 and up.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Frey’s is open year-round and can host parties and other events in their beautiful tasting room.
FOX HAVEN ORGANIC FARM & LEARNING CENTER
3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson 240.490.5484 • www.foxhavenfarm.org
Fox Haven Farm, Retreat, & Learning Center is a non-profit farm with a mission to educate and inspire a new generation of farmers and Earth stewards. Offering classes and internships on farming, land conservation, ethical foraging, herbalism, wilderness skills and more, Fox Haven empowers individuals of all ages to cultivate sustainable practices that make a healthier life and planet. Sign up for the fresh and dry herb CSA, or purchase wholesale culinary and medicinal herbs. Volunteer at the herb farm or heritage apple and chestnut orchard. Farm stay rentals and other gathering spaces are available in the updated farmhouses and dairy parlor.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Fields at Fox Haven, LLC, run by Dick and David Bittner, offers wholesale organic hay, vegetables, nuts and berries. Tours of the food forest and production areas are available. Contact them at info@foxhavenfarm.org.
GLADE-LINK FARMS, LLC
12270 Woodsboro Pike
Keymar • 301.898.7131• www.gladelink.com
Glade-Link Farms has been serving the community with pick-your-own strawberries and blueberries since 1971. They are a family-owned and operated farm located in New Midway. They encourage families to come to the farm to pick their own fresh berries and see what a difference local really means! Over the years they have served generations of families, passing down the tradition of berry picking. You can also find them at Field Fresh Farmers Market where they sell fresh-picked berries and beautiful homegrown cut flowers. Visit their website for more information about the farm, follow on Facebook or call the 24 hour “hotline” to see what’s in season and for directions and hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Acres of strawberries and blueberries available for pick-your-own. Beautiful cut flowers are available at Field Fresh Farmers Market in Frederick.
GLADE VALLEY FARMS & CORN MAZE
9201 Liberty Road, Frederick 240.586.3063
www.facebook.com/ gladevalleycornmaze
At Glade Valley Farms, they welcome all to enjoy their working farm for some fun. All activities included with the cost of admission even a pumpkin from their pumpkin patch. Petting zoo is featured with feed bags included. There is lots to do for all ages.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Fall farm fun for all ages. Corn maze, mini maze, pumpkin patch, hayride, petting zoo with feed, yard games and much more. A true working farm experience.
GAVER FARM, LLC
5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy 301.865.3515 • www.gaverfarm.com
Gaver Farm is Frederick County’s premier Fall Fun Fest, featuring a corn maze, farm animal petting barnyard, jumping pillows, numerous playgrounds, zipline, and over 65 family-friendly attractions. Take a free Hayride to pick your own pumpkins, apples and sunflowers. Sweeten your visit with the farm’s famous apple cider donuts, apple cider slushies, and so much more.
The Christmas season provides fresh-cut and cut your own Christmas Trees and a stocked Christmas Farm Market and Wreath Shop.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Gaver Farm is a family-owned and operated working farm offering seasonal farm products, freshly made donuts, educational opportunities and family fun on the farm.
This creamery is now bottling on-farm cream top white and chocolate milk. They are also processing ice cream mix to produce hard-dipped ice cream right on the farm. You can purchase items in self-serve coolers on the front barn porch. Glamourview also has a creamery on wheels serving soft custard, homemade ice cream, grilled cheese sandwiches, soups, milkshakes, floats, slush, homemade desserts and fresh milk. They are available to serve all your catering and event needs. Contact them to get some fresh goodies straight from the cow, on the farm.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Storefront featured this spring where visitors can view the farm’s Jersey cows getting milked by a robotic milking system.
GOOD HOPE FARMSTEAD
10820 Renner Road
Woodsboro • 240.367.9676
www.goodhopefarmstead.com
Good Hope Farmstead is a pasture-based family farm, passionate about raising food that’s good for you and the environment. The well-being of their animals and preservation of the land and soil is at the forefront of their farm planning. They offer 100 percent grass-fed beef, pasture-raised and non-gmo chicken, pork, lamb and mutton.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Products are available year-round for local home delivery, and at area farmers markets. Visit the farm website for further details.
9736 Keysville Road
Emmitsburg • 443.536.1830
www.goodsoilfarmllc.com
Good Soil Farm offers a 20-week veggie CSA subscription program from May to October. Pick-ups are offered on the farm in Emmitsburg or at one of their drop point locations. They also offer eggs, chicken, lamb, turkey, sourdough bread, honey and more.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Know your farmers and you’ll know you can trust how they grow your food, The vegetable CSA is truly a labor of love, not only for this family, but for their community. If you like to see your food grow where you live, then you’ll want to give Good Soil Farm’s Veggie CSA a try. You couldn’t meet nicer farmers, or ones who care more about the land and the people they are feeding.
HARA-VALE FARM
4309 Cap Stine Road
Frederick
Bakery: 301.788.5409
Farm: 301.471.5968
www.edscountybakery.com
Hara-Vale Farm is a fourgeneration family farm which has successfully transitioned from dairy farming to all natural, pasture-raised beef, eggs, hay and straw sales and a livestock hauling business. The farm is also home to Ed’s Country Bakery featuring old-fashioned baking at its best. Their eggs and select beef cuts are available for sale in the bakery. Visit the bakery website or follow Ed’s Country Bakery on Facebook for current hours and information.
HILLSIDE TURKEY FARMS
30 Elm Street, Thurmont 301.271.2728
www.hillsideturkey.com
Hillside Turkey Farms is a family-owned, third generation farm and retail store specializing in today’s families’ needs. The main focus is further processing of poultry to make meals more fun and interesting. They carry many fresh poultry products, deli items and some prepared foods. Hillside Turkey Farms is a USDA inspected plant serving the public with a retail store and in many local restaurants. Call or visit the website for store hours and more information. Don’t forget to order your fresh turkey or turkey breast for the holidays!
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They offer baked goods, all natural pasture-raised and grain-finished beef sold by the quarter or half or in a variety of cuts and ground beef; hay and straw bales and livestock hauling.
HILLTOP BLOOMS AND BEEF
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They offer baked goods, all natural pasture-raised and grain-finished beef sold by the quarter or half or in a variety of cuts and ground beef; hay and straw bales and livestock hauling.
Ijamsville • 301.536.2259
www.hilltopbloomsandbeef.com
Located five minutes from the bustling community of Urbana, Hilltop Blooms & Beef offers delightful and excellent quality local, seasonal flowers, which they sell directly to customers, floral designers and restaurants.
They also specialize in completely grass-fed, grass-finished Red Devon beef, sold in halves, quarters, eighths and by the cut.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Owner Lauren loves sharing her passion for local flowers through workshops that include a farm tour and hands-on floral designing with farm fresh flowers. Visit their website or email hilltopbloomsandbeef@gmail.com.
HIDDEN HILLS FARM AND VINEYARD
7550 Green Valley Road, Frederick 301.660.8735 www.hiddenhillsfarmand vineyard.com
Nestled among the hills of a 103-acre horse farm are grape vines that produce some of the area’s most elegant dry wines. The varietals have been carefully selected, staying true to the micro-climate in the region. Their wines are crafted in small blocks, showcasing Maryland’s terroir with the best characteristics and a refined complexity.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Fifteen minutes from historic Downtown Frederick. Specializing in approachable dry, old-world French style wines. Family and dog friendly. Intimate indoor seating. Spacious outdoor areas with optimal seating.
J BAR W RANCH
10530 Green Valley Road
Union Bridge
www.jbarwranch.com
This father, son and daughter partnership has received recognition nationwide for producing and hosting pro-bull riding. The ranch has been credited for professionalism displayed at their Battle of the Beast. They maintain more than 750 head of Generation of Genetics Bucking Livestock. Call or visit the website for hours and event dates.
HOUSE IN THE WOODS FARM
2225 Park Mills Road, Adamstown
301.461.6575
www.houseinthewoods.com
House in the Woods Farm is celebrating 25 years of production, offering their farm share/CSA program and farm experiences. House in the Woods is a certified organic, diverse farm near Sugarloaf Mountain. Their farm share program, from May to November, includes member-only U-Pick rows and a full growing season of organic produce, all grown on the farm featuring heirloom varieties. In April and May, they sell heirloom tomato plants and more to home gardeners.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Battle of the Beast event, probull riding, cowgirl barrel racing, mutton bustin’, face painting, food, souvenirs, including T-shirts, cowboy hats, etc.
House in the Woods Farm inspires families to explore the farm and connect to the land, food and community through farm memberships, farm-to-table experiences and harvest events. Lend a hand to plant and harvest produce and experience the delight of eating what you grow. Memberships, produce, events, garden seedlings, classes and tours are available through the website.
Jumbo’s Pumpkin Patch, LLC is a part of Homestead Farms, owned by the Huffer family. This season marks their 30th year in business. Homestead was purchased in 1870 and has now been home to seven generations. Pick your pumpkins from the 30-acre patch and find your way through a 15-acre corn maze.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Hayrides, Pick Your Own Pumpkins, Corn Maze, 3,000 square feet of fall shopping, farm-grown mums, petting zoo, kids play areas, jumping pillow, pony rides, face painting, corn cannon and more.
KEMPTOWN HONEY
Monrovia • 301.641.4743 www.kemptownhoney.com
Kemptown Honey is a small, family-run apiary in Frederick County known for its raw, rich, local honey made from a blend of wildflowers including poplar, blackberry, tupelo, and other nectars native to south-east Frederick County. They also sell beeswax, propolis, and their latest creation— Honey Crush, a honey-based citrus syrup perfect for cocktails or mocktails.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
It’s so good they’ve earned multiple ribbons at the Great Frederick Fair. Find them at retailers including Voila! Tea or on their website www.kemptownhoney.com.
THE KOMBUCHA LADY
9750 Appolds Road
Rocky Ridge
301.447.6152
www.thekombuchalady.com
The Kombucha Lady is a small artisan kombucha brewer in Frederick County. They grow many of the fruits and herbs used in their kombucha flavors right there on their farm in Rocky Ridge. They only use the finest organic teas, fruits and spices.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
You can find their delicious brews at 18 area farm stores, cafes and markets. They also offer home delivery or farm pick-ups.
LINGANORE WINECELLARS
13601 Glissans Mill Road
Mount Airy
301.831.5889
www.linganorewines.com
Majestically nestled in the rolling hills of Mount Airy, Linganore Winecellars is Maryland’s oldest and largest family-owned vineyard. They invite you to join them for a relaxing afternoon, tasting award-winning wines crafted by their skilled winemakers. Boasting three generations of wine making tradition and innovation, they are proud to have been the state’s premier destination winery since 1976.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Celebrating over 40 years, Linganore offers it all—wine tasting, tours, festivals, and hosts private events. Open seven days a week, 361 days a year. Come and join the family adventure.
LINKS BRIDGE VINEYARDS
8830 Old Links Bridge Road Thurmont • 301.466.2413 www.linksbridgevineyards.com
Links Bridge Vineyards crafts estate wines in small batches, focusing on style, taste and excellence. In 2024, their Rosé of Barbera won Double Gold, 98 points, Best in Class in the International East Meets West Competition. Exhibits of artwork by local artists happen in the tasting room throughout the year. They offer charcuterie and other food items to accompany the wine and you are welcome to bring your own food. Enjoy the wine, art and garden, Children and dogs will especially enjoy a stroll downhill to the Monocacy River to see the remains of Old Links Bridge.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Links Bridge Vineyards can be visited by car, bicycle or kayak. By car it’s 20 minutes from Downtown Frederick. By water, it’s on the Monocacy River between Creagerstown and Devilbiss Bridge. Look for three old stone bridge piers. Pull your boats onto the shore in front of the right- bank pier. The tasting room is a short walk up the hill. Call to let them know you are coming. Open Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and by reservation weekdays.
The Little Red Wagon is a family-operated roadside stand that is open from early spring through late fall. They offer a full line of vegetable plants and flowers, all grown in their own greenhouses, as well as many hanging baskets and planters. They also offer a broad variety of fruits and vegetables as they are in season, from asparagus and strawberries in the spring to apples and pumpkins in fall, with everything in between. Open March-October, Monday-Saturday, 10a.m.-6 p.m.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Colorful flowers for your porch, vegetable plants and herbs for your garden and seasonal fruits and vegetables for your table, all in a relaxed country setting. Pick up a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers.
LOCHLAND AG & TURF
8901 Crum Road, Walkersville 240-397-5995
www.lochlandturf.com
Elevate your property with Lochland Ag & Turf Sod. Their locally-grown, top-quality sod transforms lawns and commercial space instantly. Lochland Turf Sod exceeds all available certifications to homeowners, commercial and government projects throughout the region.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Trust Lochland Turf for timely delivery and expert advice. Perfect for homeowners and businesses alike. Lochland Turf Sod—Where Frederick’s Green Dreams Begin.
LOEW VINEYARDS
14001 Liberty Road
Mount Airy • 301.831.5464
www.loewvineyards.net
The Loew family wines have been enjoyed for centuries. Their ancestors founded their first wineries in the Austro-Hungarian empire where they continued to produce wine until the mid-20th century. In 1982, Bill and Lois Loew established Loew Vineyards in Maryland. Now, with the fifth generation, they take pride in sharing heritage through each bottle of mead and wine they create.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
MAYNE’S TREE FARM
3420 Buckeystown Pike
Buckeystown • 301.662.4320
www.maynestreefarm.com
This is a full-service farm offering everything from asparagus and pick-your-own strawberries in the spring and sweet corn all summer long to a hayride to the pumpkin patch in the fall. In December is the opportunity to come cut your own Christmas tree and to visit the wreath barn. Call or visit facebook for hours.
Wine tasting, winery and vineyard tours and picnic grounds. Several varieties of wine, from traditionally crafted dry white and dry red selections to unique mead. They offer curated events and a wine club.
MARYLAND MICROGREENS
Monrovia • 240.372.4030
www.marylandmicrogreens.com
Craig and Sherill Carlson founded Maryland Microgreens in early 2017 to offer a wide variety of microgreens sold in living form to farmers markets, restaurants, caterers and individuals. Only pure water is used in the growing process utilizing non-GMO seeds grown on recycled and compostable cocoa fiber mats. Microgreens can have from four to 40 times the nutritional value of their mature counterparts. Plants are grown indoors with controlled temperature and humidity.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Microgreens are not just a healthy garnish on salads. Research shows these tiny seedlings harvested and eaten when they are just a few inches tall are a super food packed with antioxidants and other healthy nutrients.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Pick-your-own strawberries, hayrides to the pumpkin patch to pick-your-own pumpkins and cutyour-own Christmas tree. Farm is set up for group and bus tours and gatherings.
MILKHOUSE BREWERY AT STILLPOINT FARM
8253 Dollyhyde Road
Mount Airy
301.829.6950
www.milkhousebrewery.com
Stillpoint Farm is home to a flock of heritage Leicester Longwool sheep and to Milkhouse Brewery. Maryland’s first Class 8 Farm Brewery specializes in traditional and 100 percent Maryland beers. They also have a mercantile offering farm-raised beef, lamb and wool products from their sheep as well as pork, chicken, duck, seasonal produce and products from other local producers. MIlkhouse is a dog and kid–friendly community gathering space that offers music, rotating food trucks and the best sunsets around.
HOMEGROWN
HIGHLIGHT
Come share the perfect pint and leave with local, responsibly produced food, knowing just where and who it comes from.
MOO COW CREAMERY
3935 Bussard Road
Middletown • 240.549.9183
www.moocowcreamerywrf.com
Moo Cow Creamery, nestled in the picturesque Middletown Valley, is an eighth-generation, family-owned dairy farm. Specializing in rich, golden-hued, high-quality milk from a blend of Guernsey, Jersey, Milking Shorthorn and Swiss breeds, their cattle carry the unique A2A2 gene, ensuring easier digestion of Walnut Ridge Farm’s dairy products. With a selection of 25 artisan cheeses, butters, creamline milk, heavy cream, buttermilk, drinkable yogurt and ice cream, the farm extends its offerings to include eggs, beef, chicken, pork and seasonal produce.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
The farm holds historical significance as the birthplace of Yankees baseball great, Charlie “King Kong” Keller. Be sure to watch for the Walnut Ridge Farm food trailer that serves grilled cheese, soups, chili and ice cream all crafted from farm fresh and local products.
MOON VALLEY FARM
9700 Gravel Hill Road
Woodsboro
410.207.0241
www.moonvalleyfarm.net
Moon Valley Farm is a certified organic specialty and staple vegetable and herb farm growing for a year-round Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, an online farmers market for home delivery or pick-up, for restaurants and Frederick County Public Schools. The farm is growing on 70 acres in Woodsboro and is owned and operated by Emma Jagoz.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They host an annual strawberry festival featuring certified organic strawberries that you can harvest yourself, plus food trucks, games and vendors.
Mazzaroth Vineyard is a family-owned and operated boutique winery in the Middletown Valley. Achieving a goal of crafting premium Maryland wines requires them to maintain a relentless focus in the vineyard and winery, combined with a respect for nature. They currently grow five varieties well-suited for the region. They enjoy sharing a passion for grape-growing and wine-making. Guests welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They are proud to be a glyphosate-free vineyard. Eliminating this herbicide allows them to cultivate a managed cover crop that moderates soil temperatures and produces more flavorful wines.
With a legacy spanning over 100 years, Needwood Farms, a fifth-generation family-owned Maryland Century Farm stands as a testament to time. The Pry family’s commitment to sustainability echoes in the environmentally friendly practices adopted on their lands, yielding high-quality meat from their farm-raised cattle. Treat your family to a product you can enjoy and trust.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
To order all-natural freezer beef in quarters, halves, or whole, contact Needwood Farms Corner Beef Market at 301-834-8752, or schedule an appointment for individual and specialty cuts.
NICK’S ORGANIC FARM
2733 Buckeystown Pike
Adamstown • 301.983.2167
www.nicksorganicfarm.com
Founded in 1979, Nick’s Organic Farm sells directly to consumers. They raise all grass-fed Black Angus cattle, pastured chicken and turkeys, pastured eggs, food-grade corn and soybeans, small grains, poultry feed, hay and straw. Located outside of Buckeystown on an agriculturally preserved 175-acre certified organic farm, they are committed to constant improvement of their soil. To receive notice of when to purchase products, or to pick up eggs year-round, join the mailing list at nicksorganicfarm@comcast.net.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
100 percent grass-fed beef, no hormones, grain or antibiotics; ground beef, all beef sausage and jerky, beef bones and organ meat; organic pastured chicken; organic pastured heritage and standard breed turkeys; organic pastured brown shell eggs; non-GMO organic heirloom grinding corn, popcorn, and stone-ground cornmeal; organic poultry feeds, hay, and straw.
OPEN BOOK FARM
6600B Roy Shafer Road, Middletown 240.457.2558 • www.openbookfarm.com
They are a diversified livestock and vegetable farm serving Frederick and the larger Middletown Valley. In their farming methods they focus on soil health, livestock well-being and direct to consumer sales.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Their farm offers a seasonal farm stand on Saturday mornings May-October featuring their pasture-raised meats and eggs and their (uncertified) organically grown produce. Customers may also participate in a main season, “Farm Share” (shop at the stand with a discount) or a monthly winter Farm Share (November-February).
ORCHID CELLAR MEADERY & WINERY
8546 Pete Wiles Road
Middletown • 301.473.3568
www.orchidcellar.com
Orchid Cellar is a woman-owned, family-operated meadery and winery in Middletown. Nestled among the rolling hills of the valley, with sweeping views of the area’s historical and agricultural beauty, their modern sparkling meads, traditional Polish meads and Maryland-made wines are crafted with care in the cellar of the hand-built log cabin tasting room. At Orchid Cellar, there’s something for everyone.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Bring the family, enjoy the views, say “hi” to the chickens and bees (at a safe distance!), and sip on some yummy meads and wines. Snacks are available for purchase, but you are welcome to bring food from home or a local eatery. Friendly dogs are always welcome outside.
PROSPECT POINT BREWING
5500 Jefferson Pike, Frederick 240.490.8943
www.prospectpointbrewing.com
At Prospect Point Brewing, they believe that great beer is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of family, community and the art of brewing. As a family-owned craft brewery, they take pride in their commitment to quality, and creativity, bringing you exceptional brews that reflect a passion for the craft.
Nestled in the heart of Frederick County, the brewery is dedicated to creating unique and flavorful beers that cater to a variety of palates. From rich, malty stouts to crisp, refreshing IPAs, each batch is brewed with the finest ingredients and a touch of love.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
You can now find them at your local craft beer store.
RED SHEDMAN FARM BREWERY & HOP YARD
13601 Glissans Mill Road
Mount Airy • 301.703.5474
www.redshedman.com
Located on the scenic grounds of Linganore Winecellars, Red Shedman Farm Brewery is the ultimate destination for beer enthusiasts. Indulge in over 22 varieties of award-winning brews and ciders, available on tap or in cans.
Open Wednesday through Sunday, they host monthly events such as Brewery Trivia, Bingo, live music, and even specialty tastings. There’s always something happening at the brewery. For more details and extended hours, call or visit them on the web.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
In addition to having rotating beers and ciders on draft, they’ve also brewed and packaged onsite; always fresh and available for sale in the brewery and many locations throughout the state.
PLEASANT HILL PRODUCE
8444 Fountain Rock Road, Walkersville 301.471.2699 • www.pleasanthillproduce.com
Farmer Ben has been growing high-quality vegetables since 2014. He also partners with other local producers to offer a very diverse selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, pantry items and more. Find their products at the on-farm stand, local markets, and through a CSA program.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They offer a unique year-round, no-commitment CSA program that is fully customizable, pay-asyou-go, and includes fruits and veggies, home delivery, with lots of extra items to choose from.
ROCKY GLADE FARMS
10702B Hildebrand Lane, Woodsboro
202.497.5905 • www.rockygladefarms.com
Rocky Glade Farms LLC is owned and operated by Marlin and Julie Hildebrand along with their son Allen Hildebrand and wife Samantha, and daughter Jessica Wiles. They are a fourth-generation farm located in Woodsboro focusing on direct meat sales for beef, pork, chicken and eggs. They also farm corn, hay, wheat, soybeans and other crops on 230 acres of picturesque farmland. Their feed is made from quality ingredients and produced on the farm. Customers can find online ordering via the website and a pickup area designated on the farm.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
ROCKY POINT CREAMERY, LLC
4323A Tuscarora Road
Tuscarora • 301.874.5810
www.rockypointcreamery.com
Rocky Glade Farms is focused on supplying high quality meat to consumers as well as educating customers about where their food comes from. Their feed is made from quality ingredients and produced on the farm. Future expansion includes custom processing and a farmstand.
RICHVALE FARM, LLC
7514 Picnic Woods Road
Middletown • 240-694-8135
www.richvalefarm.com
Richvale Farm, LLC, has been owned and operated by the Ahalt family in Middletown for over 125 years. Richvale Farm grows and sells freezer ready grain-finished beef, hay, straw, corn, soybeans and whipped beef tallow balm. Their beef consumes forages and grain that are grown and harvested from their farm. They sell beef in whole, half and quarter sizes, by the cut, and by bundles which are curated boxes with a variety of beef cuts.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Their cattle are never given growth hormones, and they strive to do everything they can to keep them happy, healthy, and thriving. Please visit the website to learn more information about the farm.
The creamery has over 120 flavors of homemade ice cream, along with milk, brown eggs, cheese and beef. They milk 120 Holstein and Jersey dairy cows and raise 600 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat and hay to feed their animals. Each year a beautiful two-acre sunflower field is planted and flowers are available for sale in late summer/early fall, with 100 percent of the proceeds donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Visit their Facebook page or website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Cheese made from their cows’ milk is now available for purchase. There are six flavors of cheddar to choose from. Enjoy with their farm-raised beef and ice cream—it doesn’t get any more local than this.
ROSIE CHEEKS DISTILLERY
10229 Woodsboro Pike
Walkersville • 240.285.8139
www.rosiecheeksdistilling.com
A family-owned and operated farm and distillery that produces 14 flavors of moonshine using locally grown products and seasonal fruits. With a play on their last name, Kristy and Lee Rosebush opened Rosie Cheeks Distillery on a farm that has horses, puppies and fields of crops, including the corn used in their moonshine.
While Lee oversees the distilling, Kristy uses her talents creating flavors that sound like something out of a farm kitchen, including Apple Pie, Peach Cobbler and Caramel Apple. They also produce batches of seasonal flavors such as pumpkin spice in the fall and for Valentine’s Day there’s a chocolate/cherry concoction.
HOMEGROWN
HIGHLIGHT
Rosie Cheeks can be found in its Mason jars at area liquor stores as well as at the farm. It’s also served in local restaurants.
Scenic View Orchards is a seven generation owned and operated family farm. Their farm heritage requires sustainable farming practices—erosion control, field contouring, cover crops, crop rotation, farm land preservation and use of integrated pest management practices. They meet the needs of customers at farmers markets in Washington, Frederick, Carroll and Montgomery counties, in addition to the Sabillasville farm market. The farm motto is “Get Fresh with Us.”
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Strawberries, peaches, nectarines, lopes, melons, plums, apples, berries, cherries, sweet corn, tomatoes, green beans, squash, peppers, potatoes, honey, cut flowers, pears, pumpkins, cider in season and hay/straw.
SHRIVER MEATS, LLC
16436 Four Points Bridge Road
Emmitsburg • 301.447.2255
www.shrivermeats.com
Shriver Meats, LLC is a third generation, family-owned and operated farm and retail store specializing in beef production and processing. Raising grass-fed grain-finished cattle, and crops which is fed back to their cattle. Shriver Meats, LLC offers beef by the quarter, half or whole for your freezer. Give Shriver’s a call to order, or come in and pick up a pack of steaks, a few roasts and some hamburger patties to try.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Shriver Meats, LLC raises and processes their own cattle for your freezer. Selling freezer-wrapped steaks and roasts as well as cut-to-order amounts.
SIX WICKET VINEYARDS
10819 Church Hill Road
Myersville • 240.315.9805
www.sixwicketvineyards.com
Six Wicket Vineyards is a boutique, family-owned winery in the Catoctin Wine region of Frederick County. Savor their fine wines while enjoying sweeping views of rolling hills. Explore the history with a personalized tour and tasting, then relax outdoors, on the three-season porch, or in the cozy barrel room. Inspired by the classic game of croquet, their name invites you to sip and play. At Six Wicket, every glass is a celebration of story, place, and passion.
HOMEGROWN
HIGHLIGHT
Join them for an unforgettable experience where every sip tells a story. Reserve today at www.sixwicketvineyards.com
When you know your farmer, you know your food. South Mountain Creamery is a family and farmer owned creamery, wholesaler and home delivery service. Bringing the farmers market to your doorstep, delivering all natural dairy products, cage-free eggs, grass-fed beef, farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, prepared meals and more.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Visit their farm year-round for self-guided tours, register online to feed the calves, or enjoy a scoop of their renowned ice cream.
SPRINGFIELD MANOR WINERY, DISTILLERY & BREWERY
11836 Auburn Road
Thurmont
www.springfieldmanor.com
Springfield Manor is Maryland’s first winery, distillery and brewery and the state’s largest lavender farm. They were voted Frederick’s Best Wedding and Event Venue. Come for a taste, stay for the experience. Award-winning wines, 12 craft beers on tap, handcrafted fine spirits, cocktails and cocktail flights. Visit the lavender fields which produce the ingredient for their prize-winning Lavender Gin and Lavender Vodka. Abundant indoor and terrace seating for 300 guests. Enjoy food, live music and great events in a farm setting.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Handcrafted and highly awarded fine spirits including farm-to-glass bourbon, rye and corn whiskey. Also, lavender gin and lavender vodka, rum, brandy and signature Italian Grappa, seasonal cocktails and flights. Home to the Maryland Lavender Festival in June.
SPRUCE RUN FARM
Myersville • 301.293.1070
www.sprucerunrd.com
Located near Wolfsville, Spruce Run Farm focuses on sustainable living and producing local foods. In addition to growing produce and beekeeping, they raise dairy goats, Katahdin sheep, Mangalitsa pigs, as well as poultry and rabbits for fiber, meat or pets. Produce and honey from the farm can be found at Mid-Maryland Farm Market as well as Brunswick Main Street, Middletown, and Myersville farmers markets.
STADLER NURSERIES
5504 Mount Zion Road, Frederick 301.473.9042
www.stadlernurseries.com
Yes, they’re certified plant geeks! Proudly serving the community since 1932, nothing makes them happier than connecting people with plants. You’ll find an amazing array of trees, shrubs, native plants, annuals and perennials at their year-round garden centers. They also offer curbside pickup, delivery only and delivery and planting services from theire website. Landscape design services are also available.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, bulbs and holiday plants, garden accents including fountains, statuary, wind chimes, firepots, birdbaths and containers of every size and style, also garden care products including an extensive selection of organic plant health care options. Now offering curbside pickup, delivery only and delivery and planting services from their website.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Spruce Run Farm strives to bring the best of locally-grown or handmade items, featuring seasonal produce, jams and jellies, raw local honey, goat milk soaps, as well as fresh poultry and live or dressed rabbit.
SUGARLOAF’S BREEZY VALLEY FARM
1215 Buckeystown Pike
Adamstown • 301.874.0958
www.facebook.com/sugarloafs breezyvalleygoats
This family farm is nestled in the picturesque valley between Catoctin Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain. They humanely raise Boer and Boer Cross goats. The health and well-being of their animals is of the utmost importance. They sell goats for breeding stock, 4-H projects, companions for horses, weed control and pets. They also sell small square bales of hay and welcome visitors by appointment. For more information see their Facebook page.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
January and February are usually when the goat kids are born. Come in February and March and snuggle with the kids.
SPRING PASTURES FARM
6801 Mountain Church Road
Middletown • 202.251.8635
www.springpasturesfarm.com
Spring Pastures Farm raises grass-fed, grass-finished beef without hormones, antibiotics or growth supplements. They are a small family farm in Middletown Valley where their animals thrive on a rich diversity of grasses. The herd lives outside year-round, supplemented with local hay in the winter as necessary. Their animals have access to spring or well water at all times. They handle their animals in a low-stress manner. They hope to share some of the family’s passion for this land and food with you.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They sell retail freezer-wrapped cuts from their farm store as well as cut-toyour specification sides of beef. Everything from soup bones to delicious, fork-tender standing rib roasts. On-farm store open by appointment.
SUMMERS FARM
7503 Hollow Road
Middletown • 301.304.3031
www.SummersFarm.com
Summers Farm is a family owned and operated farm entering their 29th season of homegrown fun and farm fresh adventure. They host an annual sunflower and harvest festival to share the family’s four generations of agricultural heritage. Activities include slides, jumping pillows, farm animals, farm golf, obstacle course, pick-your-own sunflowers and pumpkins, butterfly release and more. Farm fresh food and bakery, including their famous apple cider donuts. School groups welcome.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Join them for the 29th season. Enjoy the annual pick your own flower festival and local beverages. In the fall, take a free wagon ride to the pumpkin patch and select your perfect pumpkin (sold by the pound) or get lost in a corn maze.
SYCAMORE SPRING FARM
6003 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick 301.788.6980
www.sycamorespringfarm.org
Every nook and cranny offer another example of how sustainable, regenerative no-harm farming practices work in harmony with nature to nurture soil organisms and produce the cleanest, healthiest foods possible. Their Community Supported Agriculture Program has been growing and caring for members for 21 years. From the early seed sprouting and pruning, through the bountiful crops, pick-your-own, and the celebrated holiday harvest each year, come join us and embrace our love for HEALTHY people and planet.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Lost Art Workshops for 2025 will include beekeeping basics, vermicomposting, edible cover cropping, seed saving and swapping, canning class 1, 2 and 3, fermentation luncheon, solar, wind and water projects, growing, drying and using herbs, Pollinators Paradise, The Pesto Party, PawPaw Festival and plant sale. See website for more details.
THANKSGIVING FARMS
1619 Buckeystown Pike, Adamstown 301.662.1291
www.thanksgivingfarmandgarden.com
Thanksgiving Farms is a diversified 57-acre family-owned and operated business. They grow a vast selection of fresh fruits and vegetables March through December, and grow and specialize in unusual annuals, perennials, herbs and shrubs in a three-acre greenhouse and nursery garden center. They offer a CSA program throughout most of the year. ‘We Grow Our Own’ is their motto and they take great pride in an ability to offer products grown from start to finish on their sustainable family farm. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Pick-your-own options are available along with fruits, vegetables, annuals, perennials, herbs, evergreens, shrubs and trees, a selection of gardening enhancements—pottery, statuary, trellises—and tools and gifts for gardeners.
THREE SPARTANS
APIARY
Walkersville • 301.471.5738
www.three-spartans-apiary.square.site/
A proud veteran-owned apiary, nurturing several locations throughout Frederick County, they are dedicated to sharing the sweet diversity of their honey varieties and other precious hive products— pollen, propolis and beeswax. Their value-added creations, like beeswax lip balms, soaps, lotion bars and dog paw balms, embody the care put into every product. They passionately support the beekeeping community across Maryland by producing nucleus colonies and queens, fostering a thriving environment for both bees and beekeepers alike.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Discover the incredible benefits of honey, pollen, propolis, and beeswax, along with premium beeswax body products. Visit their website to explore more.
VALLEY HOMEMADE AND HOMEGROWN
7800 Picnic Woods Road
Middletown • 301.305.9796
www.valleyhomemadeandhomegrown.com
Valley Homemade and Homegrown is a part of Valley-Ho Farm, a dairy farm in Middletown. The flower business is run by Jamie Beth Derr with help from her family and a few local highschoolers. They love sharing the joy of flowers with others. There are over 30 varieties of flowers grown on 1/3 acres. The flowers are for sale by subscriptions, roadside stand and farmers markets. On-site classes and events are offered as well.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Fitness and Flowers Class, tea parties, flower arranging classes, and Sip-NPicks are some of the fun events offered for the public. They also offer private picking and flower classes. For their events calendar follow them on Facebook and Instagram or visit the website.
WESTERN MD. APIARIES
8005 Gambrill Park Road
Frederick
301.639.1894
www.westernmdapiaries.com
Established by John Klapac in 1986, Western Md. Apiaries operated as a USDA breeder/propagator of mite-resistant queen bees imported from Yugoslavia.
Sales of bee stock, honey and related equipment continues at 8005 Gambrill Park Road and offers pollination services and honey sales. The company sponsors the Frederick Backyard Beekeepers Association and conducts the only children’s beekeeping classes in the area.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
John teaches beginner and advanced Apicology courses at Hagerstown Community College and is in the Penn State E.P.I.G. queen bee development program. Open by appointment.
VALLEY VIEW ACRES
4005 Valley View Road, Middletown www.valleyviewacresmd.com
Valley View Acres held its first Annual Sunflower Festival in July 2019. They are passionate about agriculture and sharing the farm experience. They hope their festivals will become an annual tradition for all who visit. For more information and updates visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Visitors can pick sunflowers, wildflowers, zinnias and more. There are play areas, games, and activities for kids of all ages. Shop with local vendors all while taking in picturesque views.
WHISPERING MEADOWS
ALPACA BREEDERS
13959 Unionville Road, Mount Airy
301.452.9460
www.whisperingmeadowsalpaca.com
Established in 1999, the farm maintains 30 alpacas. They started the first 4-H alpaca club in Frederick County. Their motto is “first in fiber, first in fun, first in Frederick.” They breed high-quality alpacas as well as their own hay and have a variety of other animals on the farm year round. Please text/call for an appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
WILLOW OAKS CRAFT CIDER
www.willowoakscraftcider.com
Handmade, homegrown, made in the USA, and Peruvian alpaca products available. Natural and dyed yarn, raw fiber, rovings, dryer balls, bears, hats, scarves, gloves, sweaters and socks. Food, games, hay tower, tot lot, family fun. Friend them on Facebook to see the latest news. On Homegrown Days, an entry of $10 per car includes a hayride and walk an alpaca.
WIDESPREAD FARMS
Frederick • 301.304.0026
www.widespreadcountrymarket.com
Widespread Farms is more than just a farm. They’re a family committed to the community. The farm is home to a variety of vegetables that are grown with care and attention to detail. They cultivate everything from sweet corn, juicy tomatoes and crisp lettuce to hearty potatoes, refreshing cucumbers and savory onions. In addition to vegetable offerings, Widespread Farms also raises high-quality beef.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
They are proud to serve the local community. Whether you’re looking for high-quality meat or fresh garden produce, Widespread County Market, 11037 Liberty Road, has you covered.
Eric Rice and Lori Leitzel Rice craft their farmhouse style cider from certified organic, American heirloom apples on their 35-acre farm in Middletown. Organic pears, blueberries, black currants and other fruits make tasty additions to Willow Oaks’ ciders. Fabulous fruit, unique terroir and small-batch barrel fermentation let the flavors and aroma of the fruit shine through to a crisp, dry finish. Visit the website for tasting room hours and information.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT
Fresh organic produce, beef, jam, flowers, seedlings, potted fig trees and more are available at the farm store in the Willow Oaks barn. Relax on the deck, enjoy a glass of cider and take in the view.
