County Executive Isiah Leggett today joined local farmers to promote the “Buy Local Challenge,” being held through July 26. The challenge encourages residents to buy locally grown food to support the County’s agricultural economy.

“We are very fortunate to have the Lewis Orchard Farm, and more than 500 other farms producing agricultural products right here in the County,” said Leggett, who spoke at the Lewis Orchard Farm in Dickerson. “When we buy locally, we all have the opportunity to meet the farmers who produce our food, see where it comes from, learn more about the rich history of agriculture in Montgomery County and help stimulate our local economy.”

This week’s “Buy Local Challenge” coincides with Montgomery County’s 20th Annual Farm Tour & Harvest Sale being held Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26. The farm tour offers residents an opportunity to “buy local” while visiting 13 participating farms.

To commemorate the Farm Tour and Harvest Sale, Leggett presented each of the participating farms a certificate to thank them for their commitment and contribution to agriculture in Montgomery County.

Montgomery County’s 14 farmers markets, many close to the county’s urban areas, are open throughout the summer, making it easy to buy local.

“Summer is here and we have peaches and sweet corn available in time for the Buy Local Challenge, leading us into the Farm Tour and Harvest Sale,” said Jeremy Criss, Agricultural Services Division manager with the Montgomery County Department of Economic Development. “In addition, we have an updated farm directory listing 94 farms throughout the county, making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to visit and patronize our many great farms. It is a great time to be in agriculture in Montgomery County.”

Montgomery County is home to a 93,000-acre agricultural reserve, has more farmers markets than any other county in the state and has the highest percentage of preserved agricultural land protected by easements than any other county in the nation.

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Contact: Kristin Fisher, 301-590-2805 or 301-788-8555 cell
Jeremy Criss, 301-590-2830