By Blake Jackson
The Virginia Farm Bureau Federation (VFBF) honored six county farm bureaus for their outstanding community projects during the 2024 VFBF Annual Convention on December 4. Among them, the Charles City-James City-New Kent-York County Farm Bureau was recognized with a third-place award for its initiative of donating agriculture-themed children's books to a local food bank. These books were included in food packages distributed to families with young children, helping to create a connection between the food and the farmers who produced it.
The Frederick County Farm Bureau, led by President Steve Black, took first place for its innovative Farm Explorer Passport Program. This program encouraged local residents to visit 10 participating farm markets. The Women's Leadership Committee of the county Farm Bureau designed and distributed adult and child “passports,” which could be stamped at each market.
After visiting all 10 markets, participants received a commemorative prize. The program successfully reconnected the rapidly growing community with its rural roots, supported agritourism, and promoted local agriculture. Over 1,500 visitors took part in the program in 2024.
Rockingham County Farm Bureau earned second place for its successful campaign to phase out a local farm equipment and machinery tax. Under the leadership of President Thomas Byrne, the farm bureau worked with local officials to highlight the negative impact of this tax, which put local farmers at a competitive disadvantage. As a result of an email campaign and outreach efforts, the county supervisors agreed to begin phasing out the tax in 2025.
Chesterfield County Farm Bureau received fourth place for creating a memorandum of understanding with the local suburban government to emphasize the importance of agriculture in the community.
Russell County and Franklin County Farm Bureaus tied for fifth place for their efforts to introduce agriculture to local schools, educating young students about the importance of farming. These initiatives showcase the diverse ways in which Virginia’s farm bureaus are making a positive impact in their communities.
Photo Credit: new-york-farm-bureau
Categories: New York, Business