Charles County, MD

Charles County is located at the southern extent of the Washington Metropolitan region. It borders on the Potomac River to its west and south and Prince George’s county to its north. The County has a population of 140,444 and a land area of approximately 450 squire miles. Charles County sees it’s self as a place where all people thrive and businesses grow and prosper, where the preservation of our heritage is paramount; where government services to its citizens are provided at the highest level of excellence; and where the quality of life is the best in the nation. Agriculture is a significant part of Charles County, both as an industry and as a contributor to the County’s character. Serious efforts are underway to protect our agricultural lands and rural character.

Agricultural Acreage in 2007: 52,147 acres
Number of Farms: 418
Number of Farm Markets: 2
Top three to five Agricultural Products: Dairy products, cattle, poultry & eggs.

Total Local Economic Contribution of Agriculture:

• Revenue from agriculture: $8,898,000
• Revenue per farm average $21,287
• Crop sales $6,602,000(74%)
• Livestock Sales $2,296,000(26%)

Other Farm-Related Products or Activities in the County: Wineres, Soybeans, corn other grains

Principal Agricultural Contacts:
Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF)– Charles County
Charles Rice - Department of Planning and Growth Management
301-645-0651 - ricec@govt.co.charles.md.us

Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission
Christine Bergmark: 301 – 274-1922

Maryland Farm Bureau Representatives:

Pat Wathen - County President
Melinda Rice - County Secretary
Box 374, LaPlata, MD 20646, (301) 392-3770
melindarice@excite.com

Charles County Cooperative Extension:
9375 Chesapeake Street #119
La Plata, MD 20646
(301) 934-5403
(301) 753-8195 Washington Line