The Deford family of Baltimore County recently joined the esteemed ranks of those honored in the Governor's Agriculture Hall of Fame. Governor Wes Moore presided over the induction at the 55th Annual Taste of Maryland Agriculture, hosted last Thursday at the Maryland Live! Casino and Hotel. During the event, the historic family became the 56th inductee, as announced in a press release by the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Facing a challenging season for the industry, "There is no Maryland without Maryland agriculture," Governor Moore stated, honoring the Defords for confronting the crisis with notable courage. As reported by NottinghamMD, the family has been recognized for their progressive attitude toward farming, particularly for their early adoption of new technologies and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.

Starting in 1991 by former Governor William Donald Schaefer, the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame acknowledges agricultural leaders for their high achievements and dedication to their industry and communities. Nominations are collected through local University of Maryland Extension offices.

Secretary Kevin Atticks praised the family's work, noting, "The Defords continue to be prime examples of what Maryland agriculture looks like." They have earned this distinguished honor by embracing new agricultural technologies and remaining exceptional stewards of the land while mingling with industry leaders and state and national legislators during the Taste of Maryland Agriculture event. Alongside the family's honor, 11 superior programs received Maryland Agriculture Council Educational Grants, as detailed in the evening's festivities attended by various Maryland agricultural products vendors featuring beer, wine, and cider from state supporters, as detailed by the Maryland Department of Agriculture's release.