UPDATE: Number of Md. farms shrinks in 2015

The U.S. Agriculture Department (USDA) says the number of farms in Maryland continues to shrink.

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service in Annapolis says in a statement that the number of farms in Maryland in 2015 is estimated at 12,200. According to the Associated Press, that’s about 100 fewer than in 2014.

The agency says the numbers have been declining since at least 1959, when the state had nearly 27,600 farms.

Jessie Flores, an agriculture education with University of Maryland Extension in Worcester County tells 47 ABC a big part of the decline comes from new regulations.

One regulation includes the phosphorus management tool, which will reduce the amount of manure a farmer can use over time.

Flores explains they may have to use a commercial fertilizer in place of the organic source, which can be costly for small farmers. She explains in some cases, it may be easier to sell their land.

She says her team is honest with anyone who participates in their extension program.

“Regulations are there.” Says Flores. “They’re not going to go away, but you have to be more creative in how you approach that. You have to be smart. You have to very smart in your risk management if you’re having to bring this into play as well with your farm operation.”

Flores also notes that farmers have a very strong tie to their community, but the challenge is they now have to “tell their story” in order for residents to understand how big of an impact agriculture has on a community.

The USDA reports the average farm size increased by one acre to 166.