Springvale Orchardist Represents Tree Fruit Growers in Augusta

Matt McAdam speaks with State Sen. Henry Ingwersen, chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.

Press Release

Matt McAdam of McDougal Orchards in Springvale represented the Maine State Pomological Society at the annual Agricultural Day March 19 at the State House in Augusta. The day was hosted by the Department of Conservation, Agriculture, and Forestry in the Hall of Flags. The event allows groups of agricultural and horticultural producers within Maine to set up displays highlighting their organizations. These groups introduce themselves and talk to senators, representatives, and others from state agencies. The Pomological Society comprises a majority of tree fruit growers (mostly apples, peaches, pears, and plums) in Maine. Pomology is the science and practice of growing fruit.

McAdam, part-owner and orchard manager at his family’s orchard, has been one of the vice presidents of the 150-year-old society. In talking with legislators, he said he hoped to shed light on current issues and concerns within the tree fruit industry and to provide perspective and context for legislators when they vote on bills that may affect the industry.

The eighth-generation farmer takes after his grandfather and mother, Robert McDougal and Ellen McAdam, who both served on the executive committee of the Maine State Pomological Society to work together as an industry and promote tree fruit businesses in Sanford and surrounding communities. Besides McDougal’s, there are four other orchards within a 15-minute drive of Sanford.

Other agricultural industries that were represented at “Ag Day in the Legislature” included the Maine Wild Blueberry Commission, Maine Landscape and Nursery Association, Maine Organic Farmers’ and Gardeners’ Association (MOFGA), Maine Small Fruit and Vegetable Growers, Maine Farmland Trust, Maine Cheese Guild, Programs from UMaine Cooperative Extension, Maine Wine Guild, Maine Grains, Potatoes, Seafood, Dairy, Fairs, Ag in the Classroom, and many more.