Maryland Farm & Harvest Marks Milestone with 150th Episode
Maryland Public Television’s beloved original series, Maryland Farm & Harvest, is set to celebrate a significant milestone with the premiere of its 150th episode on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. The show, which first graced MPT screens in 2013, will showcase farms and locales in Frederick, Howard, and Prince George’s counties, as well as Baltimore City. With a viewership of over 16 million since its inception, both on-air and online, Maryland Farm & Harvest has become a staple for those interested in the state’s diverse agricultural landscape.
Exploring Every Corner of Maryland
In its 11 seasons, Maryland Farm & Harvest has left no stone unturned, visiting more than 500 farms, fisheries, and other agriculture-related sites across the state. From the rolling hills of Frederick County to the bustling streets of Baltimore City, the series offers a comprehensive look at the people, technology, and animals that sustain Maryland’s thriving agricultural industry. As the state’s number one commercial sector, agriculture plays a crucial role in the daily lives of Marylanders.
From Spotted Lanternflies to Nigerian Roots
The upcoming 150th episode promises an array of compelling stories, including a visit to Willowdale Farm in Reisterstown, where the episode kicks off. Viewers will also get a glimpse of Libertas Estates in Mt. Airy, where the farm manager has enlisted an unusual ally in the fight against spotted lanternflies – Indian runner ducks. Meanwhile, OlaLekan Farm, run by 26-year-old Tolu Igun, is on a mission to bring fresh, culturally rich foods to her community while nurturing a new generation of farmers. Tolu, a first-generation farmer and Nigerian immigrant, is making waves in the industry by mentoring aspiring growers at the Urban Farm Incubator in Upper Marlboro.
A Culinary Adventure with Chef Spike Gjerde
Adding a delectable twist to the episode, viewers will join James Beard award-winning Chef Spike Gjerde as he navigates the vibrant 32nd Street Farmers Market in Waverly. Armed with fresh ingredients from local farms, Chef Gjerde crafts a mouthwatering braised rabbit stew at Woodberry Kitchen, showcasing the farm-to-table ethos that defines Maryland’s culinary scene.
An Emmy-Winning Team and Encore Presentations
Behind the scenes, host Joanne Clendining, a two-time Emmy award winner, leads the charge alongside Al Spoler and guest chefs as they bring the show’s “Farm to Skillet” segments to life. For those who can’t catch the premiere, MPT offers encore broadcasts of Maryland Farm & Harvest on MPT-HD and MPT2/Create®, with past episodes available for streaming on the PBS app and MPT’s online video player.
As Maryland Farm & Harvest reaches this significant milestone, it continues to captivate audiences with its engaging storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and unwavering dedication to showcasing the beauty and bounty of Maryland’s agricultural landscape. Join the celebration on Feb. 11 and embark on a journey through the heart of the Old Line State.
