ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 16, 2008) – As you pack up your beach chairs and umbrella to make that faithful trek to the beach this summer, make sure you save room in your car for some delicious Maryland fruits and vegetables.  Whether you are going to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware or Ocean City, Maryland or places in between, there are dozens of farm stands along your route.  Now that June is here, Maryland’s growing season is well underway.  A few of the fresh, local fruits and vegetables available are blackberries, raspberries, lettuce, green beans and summer squash.

“What better way to enjoy a warm summer day or to prepare yourself for a relaxing vacation with fresh ocean breezes than by trying some delicious home-made ice cream and farm-fresh local produce from a farm stand on the way to the beach,” said Agriculture Secretary Roger Richardson. “You’ll have the added satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting local farmers who in turn can keep our beautiful land open and productive.”

Maryland’s Best, a branding program for Maryland-grown and –made products, has put together a map of farm stands along the routes to the beach from several points on the Western Shore.  Most stands are located within five miles of the major highways. Beach goers can also try traveling along some of the more interesting country roads where smaller farm stands can often be found.

June is also National Dairy Month. Celebrate with a stop to one of Maryland’s stores and dairies that make its own ice cream.

To locate a farm stand on your drive to the beach or to find a local store to taste test some homemade ice cream, visit www.marylandsbest.net.

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