It not only behooves our area to make sure that we have the infrastructure to handle the growth, but we also must be sure that with the growth we won't lose our identity. It is indeed possible to protect what we love about our area, but it is going to take a firm determination from everyone involved in the decision-making process. Here in Annapolis this session there are three state-wide bills which attempt to address problems those industries are having all around the state. Under this proposal, which has the support of Governor Glendening and legislative leadership, the types of agricultural activities which are protected from public or private nuisance actions are expanded. They include the cultivation, raising, harvesting, or production of any farm product or any commercial activity related to agricultural activity.
Development puts pressure on adjacent farmland.
This bill recognizes that agriculture was there first and should be protected. The bill, as this is being written, had passed out of a Senate committee and appeared sure of passage in the Senate. It next goes to the House of Delegates for consideration. The second farming bill sets up a Task Force on the Future of Maryland Agriculture. This bill sailed through the Senate on a 46-0 vote and appears sure of passage in the House as well.