STATEWIDE — On Monday, June 14, it was announced that Governor Ralph Northam declared the week of June 13-19, 2021 Virginia Agriculture Week in recognition and celebration of the vibrant agricultural communities and businesses throughout the Commonwealth.
During the weeklong event, the Governor and Virginia First Lady Pamela Northam, will visit communities throughout Virginia in order to highlight the economic impact of how agribusinesses provide safe, affordable and local foods and products throughout the Commonwealth.
“Agriculture has always been and will continue to be the foundation for growth and prosperity in rural and urban communities across the Commonwealth,” said Governor Northam.
The Commonwealth boasts 44,000 farms that employ more than 334,000 Virginians. Agribusiness contributes to Virginia’s economy $70 billion each year.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the state government took additional measures to protect both employees and consumers while avoiding interruptions in farming operations as well as supply chains.
“Agriculture remains the foundation of Virginia’s economy,” said Brad Copenhaver, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Virginians are asked to thank the Commonwealth’s farmers by purchasing local, Virginia Grown, an Virginia’s Finest food and products.
“Let us celebrate the contributions of farmers, farm families, and agribusinesses to our everyday lives and as stewards of our land, water, and other natural resources,” said Copenhaver.
To learn more, visit the website for the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.