Cecil County Agriculture: A Community of Innovation and Tradition

Farming in Cecil County is a diverse, technology-driven industry that blends deep-rooted traditions with cutting-edge practices. From equine farms and egg-laying poultry to precision grain farming and CSAs, Cecil’s agricultural community ensures fresh, healthy food while protecting our land and waterways.

Project Details

Client/Partners: Cecil County Office of Economic Development, Upper Shore Regional Council, Cecil Land Trust, CecilGrown.com
Project Type: Community Impact Video
Services Provided: Video production, drone cinematography, storytelling, voiceover

Abstract

Agriculture is the backbone of Cecil County’s economy and community. With a market value of $137 million annually, local farms produce everything from corn, soy, and wheat to mushrooms, honey, and Asian pears. Nearly 60% of sales come from grains, beans, and vegetables, while the rest comes from livestock and fiber. Cecil County leads the state in egg-laying chickens and ranks highest in horse market value. Farmers here are pioneers in sustainable practices, using precision farming, no-till methods, and cover crops to protect local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. Beyond large commodity growers, Cecil supports thriving CSAs and farm markets, connecting residents with fresh produce and meats year-round. Together, our farmers represent a network of innovation, stewardship, and community strength.

Transcript

Farming in Cecil County is a highly diverse, technologically advanced industry that draws on the strengths of the entire community. Farmers rely on each other in an intricate network of agriculture experts to ensure that Americans continue to eat the healthiest and freshest food and it’s no different here in Cecil. From our 173 Equine farms to work horses plowing fields and satellites monitoring weeds, crops and weather, we have it all.

It is important to recognize the economic impact of agriculture in Cecil County. The market value of our agricultural products sold is around $137 million a year; with 60% of sales coming from crops including grains, beans and vegetables and the other 40% coming from livestock and fiber. Over one third of our land is dedicated to our Agricultural businesses. We are the number one producer in the state of egg-laying chickens and have the largest market value of horses in Maryland. With nearly 100% of the grain produced in our county staying local on the Delmarva Peninsula.

Our largest growers of commodity crops such as corn, soy and wheat are the backbone of our economy. Many of these growers are utilizing precision farming, no till practices, and cover crops to minimize runoff, reduce spraying, and protect our waterways. These practices require technology driven equipment to minimize inputs and maximize the vitality and safety of our farms. Cecil County has long been thought of as a leader in sustainable agricultural practices. These practices protect not just our air quality and local waterways, but also our treasured Chesapeake Bay.

Timestamps

00:00 – Farming in Cecil County: Diversity, community, and technology.
00:20 – Economic impact: $137M annually; crops and livestock balance.
00:45 – Leading in poultry and horses: Statewide impact.
01:05 – Sustainable practices: Precision farming, no-till, cover crops.
01:40 – CSAs and local produce: Connecting farms to families.
02:10 – Supporting farmers: Buy local, thank your farmers.