BALTIMORE (WBFF) — Gov. Wes Moore has proclaimed July 17-25 as Buy Local Week, encouraging residents to support local farms, seafood producers, and other agricultural businesses by participating in the “Buy Local Challenge”.
The challenge asks Marylanders to incorporate at least one locally grown, produced or harvested product into their meals each day during the campaign.
Originally launched in 2006 by the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission, the “Buy Local Challenge” has expanded into a statewide initiative designed to raise awareness of Maryland’s farms and food.
According to the state, agriculture is Maryland’s largest commercial industry, contributing approximately $8.25 billion annually to the state’s economy.
“Maryland’s farmers, chefs, producers, and watermen keep us fed and make our state great,” Moore said in a statement. “This week, we celebrate their contributions and remember that by buying local we are not just supporting Maryland small businesses—but our community, our environment, and our economy.”
The Maryland’s Best program is encouraging residents to use its website to find ways to participate in the challenge, including locating nearby farmers markets, exploring locally harvested Chesapeake oysters, visiting craft breweries, wineries and distilleries, and trying recipes featured in the program’s Buy Local cookbooks.
“Buy Local Week is a reminder that eating well starts close to home,” said Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks, via press release. “Every time Marylanders choose local food and seafood, they’re investing in our farmers, watermen, processors, retailers and restaurants while enjoying products at their peak of freshness and flavor. That’s what Maryland’s Best is all about—helping people eat well, buy local and support the communities that make our state’s food system thrive.”
Visit Maryland’s Best website to find local Maryland products, locate farmers markets and to take part in the “Buy Local Challenge.”
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