Getting Involved in the Local Ag Community
Agriculture is a huge part of our American culture that incorporates a lot more than just farming or animals. Agriculture is the foundation of utilizing the land and animals to provide and sustain life. Many people are already in touch with their agricultural roots from gardening or keeping a small flock of chickens in their backyard to participating in their local community garden or even a regional bee hive. It doesn’t take having a small farmette to be agriculturally tuned in. There is a large community of agricultural businesses right here in Maryland. If you would like to learn more about agriculture and how to get back to your roots, there are several options available:
For youth, 
there are many programs nationwide that have been teaching the next generation all about agriculture and how it connects us all. Two of the most prominently known organizations for youth include 4H and FFA. Adults are involved in leadership and teaching roles, but also as parents learning alongside their children.
As adults, there are still plenty of other ways to get involved, too. A simple first step could be a visit to your local Farmer’s Market to see all of the different agricultural businesses in your area. Each business might have opportunities to get involved or know others who might. There are also programs linked to some of the businesses that you could join to learn more and start your own agricultural backyard, etc. The opportunities are endless, you just have to be open to learning and asking for help.