HAGERSTOWN – Linden Hall Farm, a family farm since 1875, has been named Farm of the Year by the Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development.
The Farm of the Year program recognizes a Washington County farm that showcases excellence in agriculture and promotes a greater understanding of the challenges faced by today’s farmers.
Production, conservation, preservation, community involvement and dedication to farming and agriculture are the gold standard for this award, county officials noted. Applications are accepted annually from July to September, and after judging, the winner is announced in October.
County officials noted this farm “exemplifies innovation and sustainability in agriculture.” The Hagerstown acreage is owned and operated by Brian and Nicole Forsythe. Since the farm has been in the family since 1875, the Forsythe’s are the sixth generation to manage the land.
Their approach of “focusing on the future while preserving the past,” reflects their commitment to blending traditional practices with modern technology, officials said. The couple run a diverse operation on 166 acres that includes dairy farming, an orchard and the production of crops such as corn, soybeans and barley.
They prioritize efficiency and animal welfare through innovative methods. For instance, they utilize on-site rainwater storage for irrigation and spraying, practice no-till farming and implement crop rotation to enhance soil health. Additionally, selective gene reproduction is implemented to improve livestock quality.
Mr. and Mrs. Forsythe, along with their families, have dedicated their lives to agriculture and have taken significant steps to secure the future of their farm by placing it in preservation, county officials added. This decision not only protects the agricultural viability of the land from being developed but also ensures that future generations can continue to cultivate and cherish the farm.
Linden Hall Farm will receive a Farm of the Year plaque for display on the farm, a Board of County Commissioner proclamation and an on-farm photoshoot. Linden Hall Farm also will be used in the 2024-2025 promotions and marketing efforts by the Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development.
For more information, people may contact Kelsey Keadle, business specialist for agriculture with the Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development at kkeadle@washco-md.net or 240-313-2284 or cell 301-573-7039.
