Briefing: Leaders in Environmentally Engaged Farming

A briefing with the Maryland Department of Agriculture 
July 11, 2025 | 11AM - 12PM | Register Here 

The Maryland Leaders in Environmentally Engaged Farming (LEEF) program is a flagship initiative established under the Chesapeake Bay Legacy Act, which was signed into law by Governor Moore on May 13. Developed by the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA), LEEF is designed to improve water quality in the Chesapeake Bay, promote sustainable agriculture, strengthen regional economic growth, and advance use of locally produced food.

LEEF serves as a tiered recognition program that highlights and incentivizes the conservation and community efforts of Maryland’s farmers. By showcasing best management practices such as riparian buffers, precision nutrient management, climate-smart technologies, and wildlife habitat improvements, the program positions Maryland as a regional leader in agricultural sustainability – as Virginia and Pennsylvania look to LEEF as a replicable model.

As we look beyond 2025 and the next phase of the Chesapeake Bay restoration effort, LEEF reflects a more holistic vision for agriculture—one that recognizes and rewards the full spectrum of farm contributions, from water quality improvement to public good.

Join us on July 11th at 11AM for a 1-hour briefing with MDA’s Secretary Atticks to:

• Explore the program’s goals and structure

• Learn how LEEF supports and elevates farmer-led stewardship

• Offer feedback to help refine and strengthen the program as it moves toward statewide implementation

LEEF is more than a recognition program—it is a forward-thinking approach to conservation for the next phase of Chesapeake Bay restoration.