This database assists businesses seeking county data such as demographics and labor force. Maryland Department of Commerce uses the database to enable users to visually explore communities through data, visuals and mapping.
Agriculture, seafood, and forestry remain important industry sectors that are central in helping retain
St. Mary's County's rural lands, rural character, and in managing growth that could conflict with operations
at military installations in the County.
"St. Mary's County's economy can become stronger and more resilient through diversification.
Growing NAS Pax River and the jobs associated with the base will always be a primary goal but
growing jobs that are not linked to NAS is now a strategic focus for the County."
The Strategic Plan targets the agriculture and aquaculture sectors in the County for expansion.
The Agricultural and Seafood Division in the Department of Economic Development has a primary
responsibility for supporting growth of the County's agriculture and aquaculture sector.
Over the last seven to ten years, St. Mary's County's agriculture and seafood products have achieved
increased market shares triggered largely by the success of agritourism initiatives and the farm-to-table
food movement. Oyster aquaculture techniques have invigorated the local seafood industry with a number
of profitable and growing oyster farms now located in St. Mary's County.
St. Mary's County's agriculture and water heritage presents numerous opportunities to develop experiences
celebrating these traditional industry sectors by connecting visitors with what is authentic and unique
to the community. The burgeoning farm-to-table food movement, motivated by the desire for participatory
experiences in agritourism, also creates new market opportunities for local growers. The growth of local
breweries, distilleries and wineries not only supports new, value-added agriculture enterprises but creates
unique and popular gathering places for socializing. Enhanced infrastructure for sports, recreation and
cultural experiences and improved access for hiking, biking, boating or just enjoying natural beauty in
scenic rural landscapes are important to attracting overnight visitors and to retaining young professionals
and fostering new business growth in St. Mary's County.
Agriculture Seafood and Forestry Commission (ASFB)
The ASFB is established to identify and implement activities aimed at preserving agriculture
and seafood harvesting as prosperous components of the County's economy, and to promote the
agriculture, aquaculture and forestry industries of the county.
More information, meeting schedule and minutes are available
here
.
Agendas for past and upcoming meetings are posted
here
.
Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board
This five-member subcommittee of the ASFB, assists county staff in administering the preservation
under the MALPF program. Board members evaluate and rank all easement applications and provide
recommendations to the county for any actions on easement properties. The Advisory Board holds
open meetings as necessary immediately following posted meetings of the ASFB.
Agricultural Reconciliation Committee
This 5-member committee, appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, is established by
Right-to-Farm provisions in amended Chapter 254 of the Code of St. Mary's County, Maryland.
Should a controversy arise regarding an interference with the use and enjoyment of property
by an agricultural or forestry conducted in St. Mary's County, the parties to the controversy
may submit the controversy to the Agricultural Reconciliation Committee for mediation and
resolution in accordance with
Ordinance 11-0023
.
St. Mary's County Forestry Board
Commonly referred to as Forestry Boards, Forest Conservancy District Boards were first
established in 1943 to assist the Department of State Forests and Parks, as the Maryland
Forest Service and Maryland Park Service were then organized, with the promotion of rural
forest management on privately owned woodlands. Their original goal was to help assure a
supply of wood fiber products through scientific forest management. Since that time, the
goals have shifted to restoring the Chesapeake Bay, improving the environment in urban and
suburban areas, and educating the general public about the full range of benefits that forest
provide to the State, communities, and landowners.
Forestry Boards function in all 23 Maryland counties and in Baltimore City. Members are
appointed by the head of the Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources - Forest Service to serve
3 year terms. Boards are involved in educational activities, planting of school forests,
Critical Area timber harvest plan review, private landowner outreach, community workshops
and other activities. Each board has a Chair, elected by board membership, and a Secretary
who is a DNR forester assigned to the local area.
If you are interested in forestry issues in our community, you may reach out to the local
DNR Forester and Forestry Board by calling (301)880-2745 or writing to Forestry Board Chair
c/o Forest Service Office-St. Mary's, Carter Building, 23110 Leonard Hall Drive,
Leonardtown, MD 20650.
