The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reminds citizens that the deadline to apply for federal economic injury disaster loans is June 17, 2013. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/051713droughtloans.shtml One of the marvels of the human race is that we were able to make a transition from eating what we could hunt or gather to a systemized method of producing food at will. We call that agriculture. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/051713craftbrew.shtml May is National Egg Month and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) wants to recognize Virginia’s farmers who produce 696 million eggs (58 million dozen) each year. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/051513eggs.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today a workshop designed for new beekeepers. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/051313beewrkshop.shtml The Summer Fancy Food Show on the East Coast is a big deal for the specialty food trade. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/051013fancyfoods.shtml It’s official: the 2013 farmers’ market season has begun and Matt Lohr, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), is encouraging all Virginians to add a springtime boost to their local economy by patronizing a local farmers’ market. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/050913frmsmkt.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services will meet on Thursday, May 23, 2013, in Senate Room 3 of the State Capitol in Richmond. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/050813bacsmtg.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) reminds all Virginia farmers that the 2012 Census of Agriculture officially closes on May 31 http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/050613census.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded grants to eight Virginia farms and agribusinesses. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/050213grants.shtml Do the eyes of the Mom at your house light up when you give her a shrub, tree, plant or rhizome for her garden? http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/043013mom.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) reminds the public to be wary of possible fraudulent charitable solicitations following the Boston Marathon explosions. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/041913oca.html The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) urges all horse owners to check with their veterinarians for West Nile Virus (WNV), Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and rabies vaccination recommendations for their animals. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/041713wnveee.shtml We talk a lot about agricultural exports here in Virginia. One reason is that we continue to break previous records for annual exports. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/041513top10.shtml April is National Invasive Plant, Pest and Disease Awareness Month and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) urges residents to help stop the threat that invasive plant pests pose to the state’s agricultural and natural resources. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/0401013invasive.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is encouraging small charities, those with annual gross receipts of $50,000 or less, to participate in a conference call hosted by the Office of Senator Mark Warner and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on April 23, 2013 from 5 to 6 p.m. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/0401013confcall.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is advising consumers that Curves of Tysons Corner, a health club facility located at 2070 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 180, Vienna, Virginia, closed as of February 16, 2013 http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/040813curves.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Virginia’s soybean producers intend to decrease acreage in 2013 to 570,000. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/032813crops.shtml From Easter dinner this weekend through the Memorial Day weekend picnic season, it’s easier than ever to buy local agricultural products from Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/032613buylocal.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is accepting applications for USDA Agricultural Marketing Service Specialty Crop Block Grant funds. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031413speicaltycropgrant.shtml As we approach Virginia Agriculture Week March 17 – 23, I decided this is the perfect time to address some of the common misconceptions about agriculture. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031413agwk.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services (BACS) will meet on Thursday, March 28, 2013, in Senate Room 3 of the State Capitol in Richmond. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031213bacsmtg.shtml?id=1711 EAT. With Virginia’s wide array of agricultural products, it’s easy to serve an all-Virginia meal at home. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031113agwkeat.shtml?id=1711 We all benefit from agriculture; without it, we’d all starve. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/030713agweek.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has advice for farmers who lost power or suffered other damage from the March 6 snow storm that blanketed the Mid-Atlantic area. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/030613safefarm.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has advice for Virginians who lost power during the March 6 snow storm http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/030613ssafefood.shtml Many days in March are devoted to food. Peanut Butter Lover’s Day March 1, Poultry Day March 19, Something on a Stick Day on the 28th and Clams on the Half Shell Day March 31. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/030413stpatty.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), the number of farms in Virginia in 2012 is estimated at 46,200. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/022613farms.shtml Did you know agriculture is Virginia’s #1 industry? http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/022213agmag.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) today announced that the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) has recommended that the Unites States’ risk classification for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) be upgraded to negligible risk. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/022113bse.shtml In January 2011, I featured Social Media in this column. I reread it the other day and thought, “Wow, how things have changed in two years.” http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/021413smtech.shtml Today the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it is taking applications for the Fiscal Year 2014 Farm-to-School grants. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/020613f2sapp.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), Virginia’s cattle and calves inventory totaled 1.61 million head on January 1, 2013, up eight percent from last year's inventory of 1.49 million head. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/020513cattle.shtml The 15th Annual Virginia Cotton Economics and Production Meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/020113cotton.shtml No matter your favorites – apples, peaches, shad, oysters, stew, chili, strawberries, blackberries, pork, peanuts, wine, chocolate, herbs, cheese or maple syrup - if Virginia grows or produces it, there’s a festival for it. At the Virginia Food Festivals section of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (VDACS) website http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/013113foodfest.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) wants you to have a safe Super Bowl party - safe food, that is. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/012913fdsfty.shtml Matthew J. Lohr, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), encourages farmers, food companies, packers, government and the public to take advantage of a 120-day comment period on two new proposed food safety regulations that were released recently by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/011613fdareg.shtml The Department of Environmental Quality and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) will be implementing a new strategy to proactively address potential water quality concerns that may arise on small farms that raise livestock and poultry in a concentrated area. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/011413h20.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today the crop summary data for 2012 as reported by the Virginia Field Office of the National Agriculture Statistics Services. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/011413vacrop.shtml According to Dr. Richard Wilkes, State Veterinarian with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), Virginia horse owners have a new opportunity to travel with their horses throughout the southeastern United States for six months using the new Equine Interstate Event Permit (EIEP). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/011413eiep.shtml It is a common issue in Virginia and just about every other state: what to do to protect your farm from development or any other situation that would take it out of production. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/010913familyfarm.shtml Winter has just started, but it’s time to look ahead to springtime. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/011013csa.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is hosting a Virginia Pavilion at the Winter Fancy Food Show, January 20-22, 2013 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, California. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/010413fancyfood.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has completed a final regulation to improve the traceability of U.S. livestock moving across state lines. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/010313traceability.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), Governor Bob McDonnell has declared January 2013 as Virginia Agriculture Census Month. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/121912agcensus.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today the results of the 2012 Plastic Pesticide Container Recycling Program. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/121912recycling.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is pleased to announce that Virginia has maintained its ranking in the national Top 10 list for the number of winter farmers’ markets. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/121312wntrmkt.shtml Recently the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) recognized three individuals or teams for their outstanding participation in the 2011 Pesticide Safety Education Program. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/121012safetyedu.shtml Recently the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) recognized Janet Spencer, Extension Agent, Isle of Wight County, for her outstanding participation in the 2011 Pesticide Container Recycling Program sponsored by VDACS. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/121012wightagent.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) recently recognized Bobby Clark, Extension Agent, Shenandoah County, for his outstanding participation in support of the 2011 Pesticide Disposal Program sponsored by VDACS. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/121012shenadoahagent.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) released guidelines today for applications for the Beehive Grant Fund created by the 2012 Virginia General Assembly. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/120712beegrant.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today the results of the 2012 Pesticide Disposal Program. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/120412pestdisposal.shtml Dr. Richard Wilkes, State Veterinarian with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), received the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award from the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation at its annual convention November 28. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/112912lancaster.shtml I’m sure I’m not the only ag communicator to write about turkeys at Thanksgiving, but this year, I have a unique spin. Virginia is supplying the tom turkey that will be the National Thanksgiving Turkey of the United States. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/112112lancaster.shtml Having a month dedicated to a single item is a special honor indeed. What is there about Virginia Christmas trees that merits this tribute? http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/112012xmas.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services (BACS) will meet on Thursday, December 6, 2012, in Senate Room 3 of the State Capitol in Richmond. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/112012bacs.shtml Kitchens are working overtime all across Virginia as eager cooks produce full course meals with all the trimmings, pies, nut breads, cookies and cakes, plus all the other Thanksgiving favorites. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/111512tksgiving.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that Virginia’s peanut yield is forecast to be 4,200 pounds per acre this year, up 200 pounds per acre from the previous month’s forecast. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/110912yield.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) have a winning equation that results in better nutrition and an economic boost for communities. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/103112f2s.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has advice for Virginians about food safety before, during and after power outages that may be caused by Hurricane Sandy http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/102612sandyfdsfty.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) urges all farmers to prepare ahead of time for power outages, structural or crop damage, insurance claims and damage that could accompany http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/102612hurricane.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that the U.S. federal economic injury disaster loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private non-profit organizations from the Small Business Administration (SBA). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/102412sbaloans.shtml On October 18, 2012, Doug and Lisa Bowen officially opened their Country Charm Farm, LLC. In his keynote remarks, Matt Lohr, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, said wherever he goes in Virginia, people ask him about the future of agriculture. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/102312cocharm.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that 33 Virginia counties have received U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designation as primary disaster areas due to losses caused by drought and related disasters that occurred during the 2012 crop year. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/101912disasters33.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that, based on conditions as of October 1, Virginia’s soybean yields are expected to be 39 bushels per acre, which is one bushel per acre less than last year’s record of 40 bushels per acre. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/101112cornsoybeans.shtml Don’t despair, Local Foodies. The bountiful summer season of juicy tomatoes and the sweetest sweet corn may be over, but you can still buy and eat locally in Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/101112eatlocal.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Albemarle, Nelson and Page counties have received U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designation as primary disaster areas due to excessive rain, hail, high winds and lightning associated with a derecho that occurred between June 28 and July 3, 2012. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/101012derecho.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), the state’s 2012 pumpkin crop looks very good. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/100512pumpkin.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today a new study by the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association that finds the economic impact of the poultry industry in Virginia goes far beyond sales of chicken, turkey and eggs. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/100512pltry.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has announced funding for 22 agriculture-related projects that will promote and enhance the competitiveness of Virginia’s specialty crops.  http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/100312spltycrops.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Virginia wheat producers averaged 65 bushels per acre this year, down from last year’s yield of 71 bushels per acre. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/100212wheat.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) today announced 2012’s first positive case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a horse. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/092812wnv.shtml Ever since I became the Commissioner of Agriculture two years ago and gained a broader view of agriculture throughout the entire state, I have noticed that Virginia really values its farmers. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/092112afid.shtml An eight foot tall Fraser fir tree grown by Rodney Richardson of Mt. Rogers Christmas Tree Farm in Whitetop, Virginia, was chosen Grand Champion by the Virginia Christmas Tree Growers Association (VCTGA) at their August convention. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/091412xmastree.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services today released results from a survey conducted September 1 by the Virginia Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/091312crops.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reminds small agricultural cooperatives and small businesses engaged in aquaculture that the application deadline for federal economic injury disaster loans is October 9, 2012. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/091012LoanApp.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is pleased to announce that five Virginia farmers’ markets were ranked in the Top 20 in “American’s Favorite Farmers’ Market Contest” sponsored by the American Farmland Trust (AFT). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/091012frmsmkt.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) wants all Virginians to know that fall fun is just a click away. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/090612fallfun.shtml With nearly 10 named storms already this season, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (VDACS) urges all farmers to prepare ahead of time for power outages, structural or crop damage, insurance claims and damage that can accompany a natural disaster such as a tropical storm or hurricane. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/082712storms.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages managers of farmers’ markets across the state to go electronic with Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) machines. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/081612ebt.shtml I learned a valuable lesson from my parents. Actually, I learned many of them, but this one has served me especially well throughout my life: sometimes when things look bleak, we need to think outside the box and discover new opportunities and possibilities. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/081512statefair.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services today announced anticipated yields and production for the 2012 harvest season. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/081012yields.shtml Many of you have called us at the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) to ask how this year’s weather will affect food prices. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/080912drought.shtml According to Dr. Richard Wilkes, State Veterinarian with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), effective August 15, 2012, breeding-age cattle coming into Virginia from other states must be tuberculosis (TB) test negative and properly identified. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/080912tbtest.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services (BACS) will meet on Tuesday, August 7, 2012, at the Alson H. Smith, Jr. Agricultural Research and Extension Center, 595 Laurel Grove Road, Winchester, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/080112agbd.shtml Consumers shopping at The Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex Virginia Grown Farmers’ Market in Chatham may now use their Farm Market Fresh for Seniors checks (vouchers) to purchase fresh locally-grown farm produce from vendors who display the purple 2012 Farm Market Fresh for Seniors signs showing that they are qualified producers. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/073112oldedomag.shtml The State Fair of Virginia is back and will hold the annual event September 28 through October 7, 2012. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/072612equine.shtml Because the popularity of farmers’ markets in Virginia continues to grow; because they provide the public with ready access to high quality, locally grown farm products and more; and because farmers’ markets are good for the economy and for communities across the Commonwealth, Governor Bob McDonnell has recognized the week of August 5 – 11, 2012, as Farmers’ Market Week in Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/072612frmsmktwk.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has expanded the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Quarantine to include the entire Commonwealth of Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/072612eab.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has expanded the Thousand Cankers Disease (TCD) Quarantine to include the counties of Fairfax and Prince William, and the cities of Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/072412tcd.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has certified Virginia’s continuing status as a Pseudorabies Free State. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/072312pseudorabies.shtml One of my staff members occasionally mentions that she would like to develop an agricultural-themed amusement park. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/071212farmseeker.shtml The Office of Farmland Preservation of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has announced the third of three Farm Link and Transition Pilot Workshops to take place August 4, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/071212farmwrkshp.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Virginia’s wheat producers expect yields to average 65 bushels per acre in 2012, according to a survey conducted by the Virginia Field Office of the National Agriculture Statistics Service, an arm of the USDA. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/071012wheat.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages consumers to vote for their favorite Virginia Farmers’ Market in a nationwide contest. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/070312votefarm.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has advice for Virginians who are still without power after the storms of late June/early July: throw out the contents of your refrigerator and check food in your freezer carefully to be sure it’s still safe to eat. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/070312fdsfty.shtml In a reversal of trends over the past couple of generations, young people today seem to be returning to the farm, or they would if they could just find one. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/062712farmseeker.shtml Matthew J. Lohr, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), recently signed orders that expanded the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) quarantine http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/062212eabexpand.shtml It happens all the time. Someone makes Grandma’s pickles or Aunt Betty’s chow-chow and people admire it and say, “You should sell this.” http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/062212foodschool.shtml With partners from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (BRAFB) looking on, Virginia Poultry Federation members donated 8,650 pounds of turkey meat http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/062012turkeylbs.shtml Loans available for agricultural coops, nurseries and aquaculture enterprises in Accomack, Arlington, Fairfax and Loudoun Counties http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/061912SBAloans.shtml The Virginia Crop Improvement Association in Mechanicsville is supporting Governor McDonnell’s “Governor’s Bowl” Food and Fund Drive by donating more than 1,500 jars of peanut butter. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/061812cropimprov.shtml Employees of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Poultry Federation will be at the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank Wednesday, June 20, when 8.500 pounds of turkey are unloaded. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/061512turkeydonated.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Virginia’s winter wheat crop for 2012 is expected to total 18.9 million bushels, an increase of 290,000 bushels from the May forecast. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/061312wheat.shtml This column comes with a warning: Reading it could cause the song “A Place in the Choir” to lodge in your brain and stick there. Just ask my proofreader. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/061112farmsize.shtml Matthew J. Lohr, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages all Virginia farmers to participate in the 2012 Census of Agriculture. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/060712census.shtml It’s a well known fact that Virginia is an excellent place to do business. But do you know what Virginia’s largest business is? Many people are surprised to learn that it is agriculture. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/060612agfacts.shtml The Mission of the Virginia Agriculture Leaders Obtaining Results (VALOR) program at Virginia Tech is to develop leaders who can effectively engage all segments of the Virginia agricultural community to create collaborative solutions and promote agriculture inside and outside of the industry. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/060412valor.shtml Because pollinator species such as honey bees, other insects and birds are essential partners of farmers in producing much of our food supply in Virginia, Governor Bob McDonnell has declared June 18 – 24, 2012, as Virginia Pollinator Week. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/060412polinator.shtml It’s not Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter or Passover, but by decree of Governor Bob McDonnell, June 2012 is Virginia Turkey Lovers’ Month. According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), it’s the ideal time to celebrate the delicious taste, versatility, high quality nutrition and cooking ease of one of Virginia’s top agricultural products. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/060112turkeymon.shtml Governor Bob McDonnell has proclaimed June as Dairy Month in Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/052412dairymon.shtml On March 30, 2012, Governor McDonnell signed into law legislation from the 2012 session of the Virginia General Assembly that created the Beehive Grant Fund. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/052312hivegrant.shtml Dr. Richard Wilkes, State Veterinarian with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), urges all horse owners to be mindful of biosecurity now that the summer show season is under way. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/051612equine.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services will meet on Thursday, May 24, 2012, at the Oliver W. Hill Building, 102 Governor Street, Richmond VA 23219. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/051612agbd.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) invites farmers, pesticide dealers, pest control firms, homeowners and golf course operators to participate in the 2012 pesticide disposal program. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/051612pesticide.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will spend the first two weeks of June surveying approximately 1,800 farmers across Virginia to get a clear indication of the production and supply of major commodities for 2012. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/051512farmuse.shtml Of all the American success stories throughout our nation’s great history, few narratives match the significance and impact of our agricultural industry. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/051412foodsupply.shtml Virginia’s 2012 wheat crop is expected to total 18,560,000 bushels, according to the initial season forecast just released by the Virginia Field Office of the National Agriculture Statistics Service, a branch of the USDA. If realized, production will be up 810,000 bushels from 2011, a five percent increase. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/051012wheat.shtml For the fourth year in a row, participants at the Virginia Agroterrorism Conference considered how Virginia would respond in the event of a terrorism strike against any form of agriculture. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/051012conf.shtml The Summer Fancy Food Show on the East Coast is a big deal for the specialty food trade. With its sister event on the West Coast, the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade (NASFT) brings in more than 40,000 attendees from 80-plus countries to see 260,000 innovative specialty food products each year. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/050412fancyfood.shtml It’s a beautiful time of year to take a drive in Virginia. Flowering trees, fields that are beginning to green, rushing streams gorged with spring rainfall are common sights in the countryside. It’s all so pretty you could just eat the view. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/050412spring.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is advising consumers that Profile Business Group, LLC, which operated as Maxx Fitness located at 7060 Columbia Pike, Annandale, Virginia, closed as of December 31, 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/050212maxxfit.shtml The 4th Annual Virginia Agroterrorism Conference will take place May 9, 2012, at The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center, 901 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/050112conf.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) today announced a training workshop sponsored by the Food Science and Technology Department of Virginia Tech, along with Virginia Cooperative Extension. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/043012foodcourse.shtml A few weeks ago the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and other agricultural organizations encouraged citizens to take the $10 Buy Local Challenge: if each household in Virginia spent just $10 a week on locally grown agricultural products, consumers would invest an additional $1.65 billion back into the local economy annually. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/043012buylocal.shtml Henry’s Farm, Inc. is expanding the recall of its Soybean Sprouts to include Natto Soybean Sprouts because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals with weakened immune systems. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/043012recall.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Henry’s Farm Inc. of Woodford, VA is recalling all packages of Soybean Sprouts because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals with weakened immune systems. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/042712recall.shtml The number of Virginia Century Farms has passed the 1,200 mark. As of March 31, 2012, the program had recognized a total of 1,201 farms since the Virginia General Assembly established it in 1997. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/042312cfarms.shtml I have spent my life working in Agriculture in Virginia, but in those 40 years, I’ve never seen anything quite like what is happening now with our exports to other countries. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/041312exports.shtml The Virginia Pesticide Control Board will meet at 9 a.m. on April 18, 2012, in the second floor Board Room of the Oliver W. Hill Building, 102 Governor Street, in Richmond, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/041112pcbmtg.shtml On March 28, 2012, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) sent out a release about the closure of SportsQuest HPC and how eligible consumer may file for refunds. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/033012sportsquest.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) urges all horse owners to check with their veterinarians for West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) vaccination recommendations for their animals. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/032912wnveee.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is advising consumers that SportsQuest High Performance Center located at 2240 Oak Lake Boulevard, Midlothian, Virginia, closed as of February 27, 2012. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/032812sportquest.shtml Tradition, elegance, ingenuity and response to consumer demand took high honors at the Virginia Food and Beverage Expo March 28 in Richmond. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/032812fbexpo.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that it is working with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) again in 2012 to conduct a statewide survey to determine the extent of areas infested with the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/032012eab.shtml The Virginia Food and Beverage Expois back with Tradition of Taste 2012. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/031912expo.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services will meet on Thursday, March 22, 2012, at the Oliver W. Hill Building, 102 Governor Street, Richmond VA 23219. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/031512agbd.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is joining other agricultural organizations in Virginia to encourage Virginians to spend at least $10 per week on locally grown foods and beverages. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/031512challenge.shtml One of my favorite weeks of the entire year is when we pause and celebrate both Virginia Agriculture and Virginia Agriculture Literacy Week. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/031412agwk.shtml Sales at Virginia’s Wholesale Farmers’ Markets Top $42 Million in 2011. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that the state’s network of wholesale farmers’ markets had gross sales with a value of $42.8 million in 2011 http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/030512fmreport.shtml It’s Virginia Agriculture Literacy Week. Matt Lohr, VDACS Commissioner, and Sandy Adams, Deputy Commissioner, read to student http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/030512agwkfoto.shtml Did you know that the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) inspects gas pumps, scales, oil tanker trucks, scanners and more for accuracy? http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/030112wm.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Isle of Wight County and the City of Suffolk have received U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designation as primary disaster areas due to excessive heat, high humidity, Hurricane Irene, Tropical Storm Lee and continuing excessive rainfall that occurred between April 1 and October 31, 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/022112iowdisdec.shtml At the American Farm Bureau convention in January 2012, Dave Barry told the assembled crowd that food does NOT come from the supermarket. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/021512agweek.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) advises farmers that surveys are now arriving in mailboxes around the nation to help identify all active farms in the United States. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/021312agcensus.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that 11 Virginia farmers and agribusinesses have received Value-Added Producer Grants ranging from $37,000 to $300,000 to promote small business expansion and entrepreneurship opportunities. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/021012valuadded.shtml I don’t know how many of you celebrate President’s Day in February. You may serve cherry pie or Lincoln log for dessert or the children may draw pictures of a wigged George Washington or top-hatted Abraham Lincoln, but generally that’s about it. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/021012presidents.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is advising consumers that Ladies First Fitness, located at 3412 Waterlick Road, Suite R, in Lynchburg, Virginia, closed as of December 31, 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/020912ladies1st.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that five Virginia localities have received U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designation as a primary disaster area due to excessive heat and drought that occurred between May 1 and September 30, 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/020912disaster.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is accepting applications for USDA Agricultural Marketing Service Specialty Crop Block Grant funds. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/020712cropgrant.shtml It’s February, that time of the year when you don’t need to cut the grass and don’t want to tackle those home improvement projects. It’s a great time to visit a Virginia Food Festival. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/festival.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, Virginia Tech’s Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics and the Virginia Port Authority are partnering to host the Governor’s Conference on Agricultural Trade March 13 and 14 in Richmond, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/013112organic.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, Virginia Tech’s Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics and the Virginia Port Authority are partnering to host the Governor’s Conference on Agricultural Trade March 13 and 14 in Richmond, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/012712intltrade.shtml The Office of Farmland Preservation of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has announced, in partnership with the Virginia Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers Committee, the second of three Farm Link and Transition Pilot Workshops http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/012612workshop.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Beautiful Gardens program are proud to introduce VT Spirit, a new daylily bred to showcase the colors and community spirit of Virginia Tech University. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/011712vtspirit.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that corn for grain yields averaged 118 bushels per acre, up 51 bushels from the previous year’s yield. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/011212yieldsup.shtml The Virginia Pesticide Control Board will meet at 9 a.m. on January 18, 2012, in the second floor Board Room of the Oliver W. Hill Building, 102 Governor Street, in Richmond, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/011112pest.shtml It’s a new year and if you’re like most people you’ve already made and perhaps broken several resolutions by now. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/011112lancaster.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is advising horse owners that they may need a permit to ride in certain Wildlife Management Areas and other property owned by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/010912permits.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages consumers to sign up for a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) subscription now. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/010612csa.shtml The Thirteenth Annual Virginia Cotton Economics and Production Meeting is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. February 7, 2012, at the Regional Workforce Development Center, Paul D. Camp Community College in Franklin, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/010612cottonmtg.shtml Earlier today, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced economic assistance for 11 counties that experienced damage from Hurricane Irene. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/122111loans16.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that federal economic injury disaster loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private non-profit organizations of all sizes located in Virginia as a result of Hurricane Irene that occurred on Aug. 27 - 28, 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/122111disasterloans.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (VDACS) Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA) cautions the public that an organization by the name “Veteran’s Miracle Network” of Stafford, Virginia, has solicited contributions from Virginia citizens for allegedly charitable purposes. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/121511vetmiraclenetwork.shtml It probably will not shock you to learn that I love Christmas. I have said in previous columns that I love spring, fall, Thanksgiving and pumpkin season. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/121411christmas.shtml You better watch out. You better not cry. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (VDACS) Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA) is telling you why. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/121311charity.shtml On December 8, 2011, at its regularly-scheduled meeting, the Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services made permanent the Thousand Cankers Disease (TCD) Quarantine that had been established July 21 by Matthew J. Lohr, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/120811tcd.shtml Recently the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Pesticide Control Board recognized three individuals or teams for their outstanding participation in the 2010 Pesticide Safety Education Program. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/120511pestawards.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services will meet on Thursday December 8, 2011, at the Oliver W. Hill Building, 102 Governor Street, Richmond VA 23219. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/120511bdmtg.shtml Virginia Governor Robert F. McDonnell has declared December 2011 as Virginia Christmas Tree Month. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/113011xmastrees.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Pesticide Control Board recently recognized Adria Bordas, Extension Agent, Fairfax County, for her outstanding participation in support of the 2010 Pesticide Disposal Program sponsored by VDACS. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/113011fairfaxpestaward.shtml Recently the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Pesticide Control Board recognized Neil Clark, Extension Agent, Southampton County, for his outstanding participation in the 2010 Pesticide Container Recycling Program sponsored by VDACS. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/113011southamptonpestaward.shtml Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and with it comes the start of the Christmas tree season. Most farms open the day after Thanksgiving, and some are open that afternoon, but your search can begin now with the new 2011 Virginia Grown Christmas Tree Guide. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/111611xmastrees.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages every Virginian to Buy Local this Thanksgiving. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/111011buylocal.shtml I love Thanksgiving. That’s hardly a surprising statement, is it? Most of us love Thanksgiving – time spent with family and friends, watching the parade in the morning and football in the afternoon http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/111011thanksgiving.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Pesticide Control Board announced today the results of the 2011 Pesticide Disposal Program. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/110911pesticidedisposal.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is pleased to announce the Virginia Food and Beverage Expo will be held on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Greater Richmond Convention Center in downtown Richmond, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/110711vaexpo.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is hosting a series of workshops and listening sessions on conservation easements this year and in 2012. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/110411conservationeasementwksp.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that selected farmers in Virginia will be asked to participate in the 2011 National Resources Inventory’s Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP) survey. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/110211conservationsurvey.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has announced funding for eighteen agriculture-related projects that will promote and enhance the competitiveness of Virginia’s specialty crops. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/110211specialtycropgrants.shtml Students throughout Virginia will get a taste of life on the farm http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/111/31/farm2school.shtml On October 27, 2011, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) officially opened the Robert S. Bloxom Agricultural Complex in Melfa, Virginia, on the Eastern Shore. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/102811bloxom.shtml On October 27, 2011, members of the Virginia Pumpkin Grower’s Association delivered truck loads of pumpkins to Governor and First Lady McDonnell. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/102811pumpkins.shtml Today the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced the expansion of the current Thousand Cankers Disease (TCD) temporary quarantine, effective October 14, 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/101811tcd.shtml The Virginia Pesticide Control Board will meet at 9 a.m. on October 20, 2011, in the second floor Board Room of the Oliver W. Hill Building, 102 Governor Street, in Richmond, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/100611pestbd.shtml According to the food safety experts at the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), every consumer should follow three basic steps to prevent foodborne illness caused by the bacterium Listeria: http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/100611listeria.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reported today that Virginia wheat producers averaged 71 bushels per acre, up from last year’s yield of 51 bushels per acre. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/100311wheat.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) offers agricultural producers an opportunity to showcase their products at SIAL Canada 2012 through partnership with the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/092811exportscanada.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is pleased to announce that nine Virginia farmers’ markets were ranked in the Top 20 in “American’s Favorite Farmers’ Market Contest” sponsored by the American Farmland Trust (AFT). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/092711farmersmarkets.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), the state’s 2011 pumpkin crop looks good. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/092611pumpkincrop.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that federal crop insurance will be available to farmers whose crops were damaged by severe flooding from Tropical Storms Irene and Lee. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/091911floodassistance.shtml The weather in 2011 has been hard on many of Virginia’s agricultural crops, but the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) says the outlook for the 2011 apple crop is very good. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/091411apples.shtml Some states around Virginia, ones that experienced severe drought this summer, currently are having a problem with aflatoxin in corn. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/091311aflatoxin.shtml Fire, flood, feed contamination, foot-and-mouth disease. Farm and ranch disasters can come without warning. Is your crop, livestock or poultry operation secure? http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/091311agready.shtml When you plan for an event down to the minutest details and then it doesn’t happen, or doesn’t happen the way you thought it would, you’re usually sorely disappointed. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/091311lancaster.shtml Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Todd P. Haymore today encouraged farmers and producers in localities impacted by Hurricane Irene to report losses of their crops, livestock, and farming infrastructure in order to potentially qualify for federal government assistance. http://www.ag-forestry.virginia.gov/News/viewRelease.cfm?id=908 The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) today announced 2011’s first positive case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a horse. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/090611wnv.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Pesticide Control Board invite farmers, pesticide dealers, pest control firms, homeowners and golf course operators to participate in the 2011 pesticide disposal program. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/090611disposalsites.shtml To avoid possible serious food safety problems, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) recommends that consumers observe strict food safety precautions during the many power outages that have occurred as a result of Hurricane Irene, as well as later when power is restored to everyone. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/083111foodsafety.shtml Nothing says “State Fair” quite like sheep, caramel apples, fudge and Brunswick stew. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/083011statefair.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is now staffing its Consumer Protection Hotline 24 hours until further notice to assist Virginia consumers with complaints related to Hurricane Irene. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/082911hotline.shtml For Virginia Farmers’ Market Week August 7 – 13, 2011, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) sponsored a photo contest. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/082511photocontest.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) offers Virginia producers the opportunity to introduce their products to the important Japanese market through an outbound trade mission October 30 through November 5 in Tokyo and Osaka. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/081811japan.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Virginia’s winter wheat yield is forecast at 72 bushels per acre compared with 51 bushels per acre a year earlier. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/081111yields.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services will meet on Tuesday, August 9, 2011, at the Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex in Chatham, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/080311bacsmts.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Virginia Grain Producers Association (VGPA) are proud to announce the winners in the Statewide category of the 2011 Virginia Barley and Wheat Yield Contests. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/080211vgpawinners.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Washington County has received U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designation as a primary disaster area due to damage and losses caused by severe storms with high winds, hail and tornadoes that occurred on April 27 and 28, 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/080211disaster.shtml Over the past year or so I have enjoyed having the opportunity to write a monthly column. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/080211andrealohr.shtml Because the popularity of Farmers’ Markets in Virginia continues to grow; because they provide the public with ready access to high quality, locally grown farm products and more; and because Farmers’ Markets are good for the economy and for communities across the Commonwealth, Governor Bob McDonnell has recognized the week of August 7 – 13, 2011, as Farmers’ Market Week in Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/072611frmsmkt.shtml The peaches are ripe, the harvest looks very good and the festivals are gearing up. It’s time to check www.virginiagrown.com for a pick-your-own farm or farmers’ market selling fresh, juicy Virginia peaches. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/071811peaches.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that the USDA has called for applications for the 2011 round of Value Added Producer Grants (VAPG). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/071511valueaddedgrants.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) reminds small businesses that August 1 is the filing deadline for federal economic injury disaster loans available from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/071511disasterloans.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that Virginia’s wheat producers expect yields to average 70 bushels per acre in 2011, according to a survey conducted by the USDA/NASS Virginia Field Office. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/071211WheatBarley.shtml The Virginia Pesticide Control Board will meet at noon on July 21, 2011, at the Ruritan Club, 186 Patty Swamp Road, St. Stephens Church, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/071211pestbd.shtml Virginia Farmers’ Market Week is more than a month away, but starting today - July 1, 2011 – market customers may submit their favorite photo taken at a market. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/070111frmktweek.shtml Recently I had the tremendous honor of attending Virginia’s 85th state FFA convention on the campus of Virginia Tech. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/061311vacattle.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) asks, what makes your barbecue blissful? The answer: keeping your food safe. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/062811fdsfty.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) offers Virginia producers the opportunity to introduce their products to the important Canadian market at the country’s premier event of the grocery industry, Grocery Innovations Canada. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/061611canadaexpo.shtml Last month I said that Virginia is for horse lovers, and certainly I stand by that. This month I’m making a similar case that Virginia is for Holstein lovers. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/061311vacattle.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that Virginia’s winter wheat crop for 2011 is expected to total 17,160,000 bushels, unchanged from the May forecast according to the USDA/NASS Virginia Field Office. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/061011wheatcrop.shtml In preparation for Virginia Pollinator Week, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) reminds home owners, land managers, farmers and gardeners that pollination is an essential part of a healthy ecosystem. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/060811attractbees.shtml On the list of ingredients needed for the development of bountiful fruit and vegetable crops, one item is in short supply in Virginia. To develop properly, crops need more than fertile soil, water and sunshine; they may also need bees, birds, butterflies, bats, beetles and other insects and animals for pollination. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/060711pollinator.shtml When the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Peanut Growers Association say “Play ball, and pass the peanuts”, they really mean it. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/060711peanuts.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) offers Virginia seafood producers the opportunity to meet one-on-one with Canadian buyers during a trade mission October 17 – 20, 2011, in Toronto, Ontario. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/060611Canada.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages all horse owners to go to its website, www.vdacs.virginia.gov, for updates on the outbreak of Equine Herpes Virus-1 (EHV-1) in several western states. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/060211ehv1.shtml You see them all the time, those black and white cows, and some can even be red and white, that dot the fields and farms across the state and star in national commercials for cheese, milk, other dairy products and even “chickin.” http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/060111holsten.shtml You’ve heard it before, but it bears repeating: Handle food carefully in the summer because foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, is more prevalent in warmer weather. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/052511summerfdsfty.shtml Dr. Richard L. Wilkes, State Veterinarian with the Virginia Dept of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), confirmed today that no horses that competed at the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Western National Championship have been traced to Virginia at this time. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/052011ehv1.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) offers Virginia producers the opportunity to introduce their products to the growing Indian market through a partnership with the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/052011india.shtml According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the 2011 wheat crop is expected to total 17,160,000 bushels. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/051111wheatcrop.shtml When many people think of Virginia, they think of horses. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/051111vahorse.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that much needed rain graced the state last week, increasing soil moisture. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/051011springharvest.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) says that Virginia strawberries are ripe and ready for picking now. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/050911strawberries.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services will meet on May 26, 2011 http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b.shtml Matthew J. Lohr, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), announced today that assistance may be available http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/042911farmeraid.shtml The last hard frost date is past for most of the state, foals are trying out their wobbly legs and asparagus is thrusting its spears heavenward. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/042611frmsmkt.shtml For the third consecutive year, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), will conduct a statewide survey to determine the extent of areas infested with the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/041911eab.shtml In the aftermath of a natural disaster, consumers can help keep disaster from striking twice by watching out for scam artists who want to take advantage of the calamitous situation. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/041911scams.shtml Between the Winter Fancy Food Show on the West Coast and the Summer Fancy Food Show on the East Coast, the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade (NASFT) events bring in more than 40,000 attendees from more than 80 countries to see 260,000 innovative specialty food products each year. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/041911fancyfoodshow.shtml Since 2002, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Pesticide Control Board have recognized Virginia Cooperative Extension agents and specialists for their outstanding participation in the pesticide container recycling program, the pesticide disposal program and pesticide safety education courses. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/041511pestawards.shtml I don’t know about the rest of you, but here in Virginia spring didn’t really start on March 20. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031511lancasterfarm.shtml The Office of Consumer Affairs of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) advises consumers to be on the lookout for possible Phishing scams resulting from a recent security breach at e-mail marketing giant Epsilon. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/040611phishingscam.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) recently announced the Beautiful Gardens® Plants of Distinction selections for 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/040611beautifulgardens.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) urges all horse owners to ask their veterinarians for West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) vaccination recommendations for their animals. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/040511www-eee.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Virginia farmers intend to increase planted acreage for soybeans, cotton and corn but decrease acreage for peanuts. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/040411agfacts.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages the state’s farmers, packers and produce industry experts to become involved with the Produce Safety Alliance (PSA). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/040411psa.shtml On March 29, 2011, Eastview Jose Joelle MG (aka Joelle), visited Capitol Square to announce that Richmond will host the National Holstein Convention in June. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/033011holstein.shtml The Virginia Pesticide Control Board will meet at 9 a.m. on April 21, 2011, in the second floor Board Room of the Oliver W. Hill Building, 102 Governor Street, in Richmond, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/032911pestbdmtg.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today a new study on the Virginia horse industry. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/032511econimpactstudy.shtml Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that in 2010, despite a worldwide recession and a statewide drought that impacted several key commodities, Virginia exports totaled $2.24 billion. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031711agexports.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services will meet on March 24, 2010 in Board Room 220 at the Oliver W. Hill Building, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031611agbd.shtml As more information about the devastation caused by the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan becomes available, many people want to assist in some way. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031411japanscam.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) will celebrate Virginia Agriculture Week and Agriculture Literacy Week by reading to children in pre-school through the third grade at public and private schools throughout the state. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/031111agweekreaders.shtml I’ll bet you think I’m going to start off by talking about spring, and you’re partially right. I do love spring with the baby lambs and chicks, the warmer days, the greening fields. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/030711agweek.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) reminds travelers who come in contact with livestock, poultry and other animals when traveling abroad that they may be at risk of introducing foreign animal diseases (FADs) into Virginia or other states. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/030211fads.shtml Virginia Grown App Now Available for Windows Phone 7 http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/021511eiareg.shtml Cotton Acreage Up Dramatically This Year http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/021511eiareg.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that effective March 2, 2011, an updated regulation will take effect regarding the Coggins test for equine infectious anemia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/021511eiareg.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today a workshop and listening session on conservation easements March 9 at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/021411farmpreservation.shtml I am a husband, a father of young children, a farmer and a political appointee. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/021011Agroterrorism.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is accepting applications for USDA Agricultural Marketing Service Specialty Crop Block Grant funds. http://vdacs.virginia.gov/marketing/scrop.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced today that Virginia’s cattle and calf inventory was down one percent in 2010. According to the Virginia Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Virginia’s cattle and calves inventory totaled 1.54 million head on January 1, 2011. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/020111cattle.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) wants you to have a safe Super Bowl party - safe food, that is. VDACS and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have this word of advice: When it comes to the Super Bowl game, defense matters. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/0128superbowlsafety.shtml The Twelfth Annual Virginia Cotton Economics and Production Meeting is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. February 9, 2011, at the Regional Workforce Development Center, Paul D. Camp Community College in Franklin, Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/0127cottonmeeting.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) invites agricultural producers, policy makers and business leaders to the third annual International Trade Workshop March 16 – 17, 2011 at the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel in downtown Norfolk. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/012611intltrade.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has announced that funds are now available for organic growers and producers in Virginia to apply for partial reimbursement to offset their organic certification costs. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/011311costshare.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) are making available grants of up to $60,000 each to city and county governments for emergency pet sheltering. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-b/011211petshelter.shtml The Virginia Pesticide Control Board will meet at 9 a.m. on January 20, 2011 http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/122910pestboard.shtml Does this scenario sound familiar? After your big holiday dinner, you all retire to the den to watch football or the living room for a gift exchange. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/120910foodsafety.shtml This is Matt Lohr’s first Christmas as Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), and like commissioners before him, he is keeping alive the tradition of cutting a fresh Virginia Christmas tree at one of Virginia’s choose-and-cut-farms. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/120910xmastrees.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today the launch of a new state-of-the-art online ordering system for restaurants and retailers ordering Virginia wine through the Virginia Winery Distribution Company (VWDC). http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/120110vwdc.shtml The Virginia Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services will meet on December 9, 2010 http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/112310bacsmeeting.shtml Virginia Governor Robert F. McDonnell honored a 168-year old tradition when he proclaimed December 2010 Christmas Tree Month in the Commonwealth. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/112210xmastrees.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages every Virginian to Buy Local this holiday season. From Thanksgiving through News Year’s Day, a variety of holiday events focus on food, giving everyone ample opportunity to serve foods and beverages that come from right here in Virginia. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/111710buylocal.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Consumer Affairs cautions the public that the Janet’s Rescues and Placements of Dale City, Virginia, has solicited contributions from Virginia citizens for allegedly charitable purposes. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/111710janetsrescue.shtml For many people, the official start of the Christmas season is a trip to a farm to select and cut that special tree to star as the centerpiece of holiday decorating and the setting for singing carols and opening presents. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/111510xmastreeguide.shtml By act of the 2010 General Assembly, Virginia is celebrating November 8 – 12 as Farm to School Week. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/102810f2s.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Virginia’s farmers expect low yields in 2010. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/101410yiedlsdown.shtml The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that cattle sales formerly held at the Fauquier Livestock Exchange will move to Culpeper beginning October 12. http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/100710cattlesale.shtml