Maine Department of Agriculture, Food & Rural Resources

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources is the State’s lead agency dealing with all aspects of the food system from the field to the table. The Department maintains a mission of fostering opportunities for the agriculture community and of promoting stewardship of Maine’s natural resources.

Maine farmers are the stewards of 1.25 million acres. The land provides the public benefits of open space and recreation. They are the cornerstone of food security for Maine people. The industry has a $1.2 billion impact on the Maine economy.

Agriculture in the state has developed into a diverse industry. It is the largest producer of brown eggs and wild blueberries in the world. It ranks eighth in the country in production of potatoes and second for maple syrup. It ranks second in New England in milk and livestock production. The small, diversified farms across Maine supply niche markets with organic produce and meat, value-added products as well as fiber products.

To fulfill its mission, the Department has set these goals:

• To expand Maine agriculture by making the state a leader in innovative approaches to profitability
• To create opportunities for Maine citizens to succeed in agriculture
• To ensure a safe, wholesome and high quality food supply
• To educate the public about the importance of Maine agriculture
• To promote the stewardship of Maine’s natural resources
• To protect the integrity of commercial and consumer transactions
• To foster a work environment that encourages teamwork, trust, creativity and professional development

http://www.main.gov/agriculture