As we close out 2025, let’s take a moment to revisit stories that celebrate the past, present, and future excellence of Frederick County’s agriculture and craft beverage industries. Here’s a recap of some of the year’s most impactful Homegrown Frederick blogs:
Frederick County Farmers First in Maryland to Utilize MARBIDCO’s SANG Program
Local residents, Mike and Lauren Adams from Keymar, were the first couple in Maryland to utilize the SANG program to purchase a farm. Mike and Lauren both grew up in agricultural environments and aspired to become farm owners. While exploring small farms for sale and consulting with County staff about farmland preservation programs, they discovered their current farm listed on the open real estate market. The Adams’ learned about SANG from the Frederick County Agricultural Preservation team and began to pursue their dream with the help of the program.
Blue Dreams USA: A Landscape of Happiness in Frederick County
For Jeff and Imelda, the journey to farming wasn’t traditional—but it was intentional. After long careers in the corporate and government worlds, the couple dreamed of a life more rooted in nature, beauty, and peace. In 2004, they purchased a 25-acre property with a vision: one day, this would be the place they’d retire, reconnect with the earth, and create something meaningful to share with others.
The Frederick City Market Announces Relocation Starting August 3, 2025
The Frederick City Market is relocating their weekly farmers and artisans market to 662 N. Market St, Frederick, beginning on August 3, 2025. The market will be held on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through November 23, featuring the same great local vendors and products the community knows and loves—just in a new location. Support local and shop from over 36 vendors.
Rocky Glade Farms: A Legacy of Preservation Through the County’s Installment Purchase Program
Nestled in the heart of Woodsboro, Maryland, Rocky Glade Farms stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Hildebrand family. Owned by Marlin and Allen Hildebrand and Jessica Wiles, this farm is not only a thriving agricultural enterprise but also a symbol of commitment to farmland preservation through the Frederick County Installment Purchase Program (IPP).
The 163rd Great Frederick Fair kicked off with a heartfelt celebration of the people and families who embody the spirit, resilience, and innovation of Frederick County agriculture. Hosted by the Frederick County Office of Agriculture, the 2025 Ag Awards recognized four outstanding honorees whose contributions continue to shape the future of farming in our region.
Farm Family of the Year: OCS Dairy – The O. Clayton Smith Family
Ag Advocate of the Year: Dr. John George
Ag Business of the Year: Brookfield Pumpkins
Young Farmers of the Year: Bradley and Jamie Lambert
Farming Frederick
While our top five blogs were a hit, we couldn’t forget to mention the hit series, Farming Frederick! 2025 videos included:
Spinning Wool with Budding Creek Farm
Washing a Show Pig with Cedar Creek Livestock
Cutting Lavender with Treasured Roots Farm
Harvesting Honey with Kemptown Honey
Raising Turkeys with Good Soil Farm
Picking Apples with Catoctin Mountain Orchard
As the Frederick County Office of Agriculture continues to grow, we look forward to the exciting developments 2026 will bring. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates!
~Cheers from the Frederick County Office of Ag Team!