Participant Agreement
Farm/Program: Maryland Farm School at Wise Owl Acres
Location: 13850 Forsythe Rd, Sykesville, MD 21784
Program Type: 4‑Hour Drop‑Off Youth Agricultural Program (Ages 7–12)
Released Parties
Maryland Farm School and Wise Owl Acres, located at 13850 Forsythe Rd, Sykesville, MD 21784 together with their owners, members, volunteers, employees, and agents (collectively the “Released Parties”)
Waiver of Liability
In consideration for receiving permission to participate in activities, I, on behalf of myself, my minor child, my family members, heirs, personal representatives, and assigns, hereby RELEASE, WAIVE, DISCHARGE, AND COVENANT NOT TO SUE Released Parties from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may occur while participating in farm educational activities or while being present on the farm property, whether caused by the ordinary negligence of the Released Parties, to the fullest extent permitted under Maryland law.
Assumption of Risk
I understand that agricultural and agritourism activities are inherently unpredictable and that not all hazards can be anticipated or identified. Participation may result in bodily injury, illness, emotional distress, property damage, or death, including but not limited to interactions with:
- Farm animals – allergies, biting, kicking, pushing, and other animal behavior.
- Natural environmental hazards - uneven ground, weather conditions, insects, snakes, poisonous plants, ticks, bees, allergens, bacteria, viruses, parasites, and zoonotic illnesses.
- Transportation – Transportation on wagon or vehicle may involve sudden stops, uneven terrain, falls, collisions, overturning or other transportation-related hazards.
- Equipment and tools - Hand tools, scissors, shovels, machinery, and other farm related equipment.
- Water hazards – Ponds, streams, rivers, water troughs, hoses, and spigots.
- Other participants – Actions, negligence, or misconduct of other participants.
I voluntarily assume all such risks for myself and for my minor child. I agree that my child will follow all safety rules and instructions given by program leaders. I understand that failure to follow safety instructions may result in removal from activities for the safety of all participants.
Program Activities
Activities may include, but are not limited to animal interaction, farm chores, garden work, nature exploration, educational demonstrations, and a hay ride pulled by a tractor. Parents/guardians acknowledge that children will be dropped off and supervised by program staff during the program.
While reasonable supervision will be provided, participants may not receive continuous individualized supervision at all times. I acknowledge and accept the risks associated with these supervision limitations.
Emergency Medical Authorization
I authorize the Released Parties to administer basic first aid and to obtain emergency medical care (including EMS transport) if deemed necessary for my child. I agree to assume responsibility for any associated medical costs.
Indemnification
I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Released Parties from any claims, damages, liabilities, costs, or attorney’s fees arising from my child's participation or from violation of this agreement.
Photo Release
I grant permission for photographs and video recordings taken during activities to be used by Maryland Farm School and Wise Owl Acres for educational, promotional, and marketing purposes without compensation.
Agreement
This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Maryland. Any claims must be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction within Carroll County. If any provision of this agreement is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
IN SIGNING THIS PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT, I ACKNOWLEDGE AND REPRESENT THAT I fully understand its terms and conditions. I represent that my child is physically and emotionally capable of participating in farm activities. I understand that I am giving up substantial rights, including my right to sue Released Parties for injuries resulting from the inherent risks of agricultural or agritourism activities or the active or passive negligence of Released Parties. I further acknowledge that I am signing this agreement freely and voluntarily, and intend my signature to be a complete and unconditional release of all liability, including that due to ordinary negligence by Released Parties, to the greatest extent allowed by the laws of Maryland.