December - 2009

November - 2009

Farm Bureau convention to include bay-related news conference

Fresh Virginia-grown trees can add life to holiday decor

Augusta County family’s barn could win preservation contest

TV shows spreading incorrect messages about agriculture

Down Home Virginia reports EPA regulations could force out farmers

Farm Bureau focusing on health care reform

Save Our Food Holiday Festival will take place Dec. 12

Holiday season is vital for some farm-related businesses

‘The Real Dirt’ offers Farm Bureau’s legislative opinions

USDA agency releases 2008 Va. farm findings

EPA to hold four Virginia hearings on proposed bay TMDL

Farm Bureau assessing potential impact of proposed bay act

Thanksgiving costs in Va. drop for first time in three years

Farm Bureau membership hits all-time high

Farmers speaking out against health care reform bills

Farmers’ concerns about bay plan to be outlined on farm show

Mandatory bay regulations could shut down Virginia farms

October - 2009

Farmers using Twitter to educate public, promote businesses

Gobble it up! Order your Virginia turkey in time for the holidays

Banding together seen as way to strengthen agriculture

Farmers to Congress: ‘Don’t CAP Our Future'

Virginia Farm Bureau introduces ‘Real Dirt’ video blog

Names matter: H1N1 is not swine flu

Virginia winery visits are a great way

Increased crop yields will help offset decreased prices

Down Home Virginia to focus on Chesapeake Bay regulations

Tips for fall garden decorating

Despite rainy summer, good pumpkin harvest expected

Bay plan changes called short-sighted with regard to agriculture

Careful with that turkey fryer, Pilgrim

Virginia’s Finest marks 20th year

Farm injury rate among children declining

Calling all bird photographers

Cornell study: Dairies have greatly reduced carbon footprints

Research needed for productivity and affordable food supply

Farmers oppose elk reintroduction proposal

September - 2009

Governor’s School for Agriculture accepting applications

Farmers reaping the benefit of summer rains

USDA forecasts 38 percent drop in net farm income this year

Farmers wary of bay cleanup plans

Government unveils new food safety Web site

USDA value-added producer grants now available

Virginia apple producers seeing lower prices for 2009

Virginia ag exports buck downward trend

Farm Bureau surpasses ‘09 membership goals

Farm production expenditures slowed in 2008

Rates competitive for rented farmland

Lost: Where did that Virginia farmland go?

Organic products on the rise in Virginia

Where was that burger born? More shoppers want to know

School food programs strive to buy local

Fresh, local produce is plentiful even after Labor Day

August - 2009

Dial before you dig

Consumers believe soy is healthy; growers say that’s good news

Markets provide fresh food access for lower-income families

Fla. fruit grower shares agritourism story with Va. producers

Fire safety is critical for farm buildings and equipment

Commodity prices down, but not yet devastating

Warm weather makes for a ‘peachy’ harvest

Veggie Bus starts rolling in Richmond area

Beef producers will gather at West Point farm

Consumers rank Williamsburg farmers' market among best in nation

Sweet corn season is looking—sweet!

Hard times continue for Virginia’s dairy producers

July - 2009

VT agriculture dean backed by Farm Bureau

Local farms can grow their business through new food distribution center

Don’t take local tomatoes for granted

Farmers: Time to curtail federal borrowing, balance budget

Deeds, McDonnell to field questions from ag, forestry leaders

Humane society opposes livestock care standards board

Farm opposition to energy bill grows

Meat goat symposium set for Aug. 8

Gubernatorial candidates to field farmers’ questions July 31

Food prices continue to trend down

Farmers to gather in Hanover to learn, discuss

Bird health information available for backyard poultry owners

Seek shelter, stay low when lightning strikes

Finding fresh, local foods is easy

Global market for ag products can affect your hometown

Food Independence Recipe Contest runs through July 31

Agricultural workers often hard to find

Web-based directory promotes Valley’s forest industry

Green industry needs to adapt to fire ants

June - 2009

Unusual plants recognized by Virginia growers

Fireworks-related injuries on the rise

Peanut production turning the corner

Climate change bill will negatively impact agriculture industry

Farming and other outdoor work call for sun protection

Canadian bill would ban all imports of U.S. burley tobacco

Choose local food for your Independence Day meal

Isle of Wight awarded grant for plastic bag recycling program

Find Farm Bureau on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn

Post signs to prevent trespassing

Farmers encouraged to take a close look at energy use

Beef and grilling tips for summer cookouts

Bradshaw named to Farm Bureau honors program

Children’s Museum’s Little Farm opens June 19

Organic farms are subject of new USDA survey

Vote for favorite farmers’ market in national contest

Watermelons can be tapped for ethanol, studies show

It’s blueberry season—go pick your own!

May - 2009

Learn to manage wildlife on forestland

When placing statuary and large garden containers, less is more

Lack of rural broadband service still a barrier to businesses

June Dairy Month honors producers

Students learn fresh + local = appealing

Niche market promoters eligible for grants

Now is the time to prepare for a hurricane

Virginia Cooperative Extension helps with farm transitioning

Ag license plate sales help support farm transitioning

Virginia nursery proud to supply boxwoods to White House

Add a little history to your shopping bag

Winery growing asparagus, debunking ‘enemy’ myth

Memorial Day cookout prices down

Meat thermometer helps keep grilling safe

Women in Agriculture Conference scheduled for May 20

Dairies to be surveyed about waste storage safety

Survey results reveal sustaining optimism of young farmers

April - 2009

‘It is just that easy’ to become a victim of identity theft

Conference will focus on managing farms’ energy costs

Virginia grape acreage increases in 2008

Farmers’ markets continue to sprout up across Virginia

Farm Bureau bringing farm to Children’s Museum of Richmond

Farm co-op allows members to order online

Pick-your-own operations are picking up

Farmers actively protecting water quality

Perform safety checks before planting crops

Virginia agriculture is not one-size-fits-all

Farmers’ markets growing in number

Greenhouse growers offer consumers pre-season produce

Food prices fall; consumers aren’t buying

Farm Bureau credits legislative successes to its members

Agroterrorism preparation prompts agencies to band together

Domestic terrorism can affect farmers and consumers

March - 2009

Rural driving calls for caution

Game department seeks comments on hunting changes

Peanut butter donations doing double duty

Roanoke chef serving up local flavor, supporting local farms

Stimulus bill to help restore flooded land

Front Royal farmers’ market seeking vendors

International trade has pros and cons, but results are worthwhile

Farm Bureau airs concerns about labor rule suspension

When pruning trees, consider carefully before you cut

Virginia’s farm economy reliant on trade

AFBF president urges action to build global trade

Farm Bureau denouncing phase-out of direct farm payments

Carbon monoxide: silent, odorless dangerous

Pittsylvania Farm Bureau, AITC foundation receive education grants

Black tomatoes top favorites among heirloom varieties

Demand for fresh fruits and vegetables expected to grow

February - 2009

Food Freedom Recipe Contest extended

University of Richmond to celebrate National Agriculture Week

Wild horses and burros going up for adoption

Beautiful Gardens program to promote locally grown plants

Country of origin labeling final March 16

Ag and forestry jobs holding their own

USDA will hold networking conference at VSU

Get value-added production grant writing tips

Farm Bureau, Virginia Tech to hold international trade workshop

Ag Safety Awareness Week is March 1-7

Va. saw fewest farm deaths in 14 years

Virginia has more part-time than full-time farmers, census findings show

Kaine to speak Feb. 9 at Agriculture Summit; Warner expected

Agriculture plays significant role in alternative energy boom

Businesses mindful of energy efficiency and renewable fuel opportunities

Alternative energy from farm products called ‘tip of the spear’

Ag census finds dramatic loss of Virginia farmland

Food Freedom Recipe Contest ends Feb. 28

Follow guidelines when heating outbuildings

Plan now for an early-spring garden

Virginia peanuts not part of product recall

Dairy industry shaken by increased inputs, decreased exports

January - 2009

Stevia is nature’s non-calorie sweetener

Loudoun County is home to the state’s most berry farms

Food Freedom Day to be marked with donations to charities

Organic farming conference scheduled for late February

Franklin producer named to task force on government debt

State’s ag development officials form alliance

Virginia wine is for Valentine’s Day

Plans being made for community farm in Fauquier County

Rural Americans better able to get loans, according to USDA report

Virginians take part in 90th national Farm Bureau convention and policy discussion

Farmers to meet with state legislators on ag issues

Winter hasn’t shuttered some Virginia farmers’ markets

Retail food prices dropped slightly in last quarter of 2008

Growers’ workshop will help producers sell at farmers’ markets

Va. farmers among those shaping national Farm Bureau policies

Agriculture Summit to explore energy

Northern Neck Farm Museum fills education need

Thinking outside the box can help farmers add product value

December - 2008

Vehicle prep is critical for winter travel

In EU, imperfect-looking produce ruled perfectly OK

American Farm Bureau president praises Vilsack nomination

Eminent domain amendment important to Virginia farmers

Forage and beef summit will focus on change

Cooking at home? Don’t forget food safety

Consumers making dramatic changes after recalls

Back-to-the-farm trend growing?

Free 2009 poultry calendar available

Virginia ham is a holiday mainstay

Sweet potatoes: orange they nutritious!

Local grower offers tips for poinsettia care

Cypress is in demand for decoration

November - 2008

Company offers alert system for food recalls

GPS improves efficiency for row crop farmers

Va. chefs cite importance of buying locally

CSAs help consumers eat locally and connect with farmers

Save Our Food goes social

Deadline to submit listing for Virginia Grown Guide is Dec. 15

Spotlights add drama to a holiday landscape

Virginia-grown trees ‘green’ up Christmas

Virginia’s crop yields looking good despite dry summer

Veterinarian shortage holds consequences for all consumers

Enter favorites in Save Our Food recipe contest

Workshops to help small farmers get grants

Eating healthy goes beyond athletic fields

Want locally-grown foods in your schools?

Serve up a Virginia-grown Thanksgiving

Drivers: Be wary of deer; collisions spike in November

Hard cider makes a comeback in Virginia

Indian corn a colorful fall decoration and legendary crop

Thanksgiving costs in Virginia rise but remain affordable

October - 2008

Farmers prioritizing legislative policy

Despite junk food trends, healthy produce remains affordable

Value-added products boost ag and forestry bottom line

Farmers tested yet again by market swings

Agritourism is a great value for family fun

Forest fires break 45-year record

Workshops will focus on importance of smart growth

President approves bill for small farmers

Farm Bureau launches blog, joins social media networks

Wheat yields surpass Va. record high

Farmers caught up on wild market ride

State budget cuts will adversely affect agriculture

‘Life-size game’ of corn mazes is a hit for family fun

Time to pick the perfect pumpkin

Focus on fresh and local for fall decorations

Annual report shows Va. agriculture’s strength

Healthy lunches and snacks include apples or other fruit

Virginia Wine Month celebrates 20 years of award-winning wines

Farm Bureau president participates in WTO discussions

Number of farmers’ markets growing nationwide

September - 2008

Award-winning posters show why agriculture matters

Photo contest winners capture agriculture at its best

Agriculture matters to essay contest winners

Safety is a must when burning wood, using space heaters

Farmer-to-farmer hay donations bring relief in Augusta

Oversight and inspection ensure safe U.S. milk supply

Agriculture, forestry are cornerstone of Va. economy

Farm production expenditures hit record high in '07

Country of origin labeling for food to start Sept. 30

Outstanding Young Agriculturalist Award entries due Oct. 1

Safe livestock handling is less stressful for all involved

Virginia apple producers expecting strong prices

Virginia-grown beans are bountiful in fall months

Hanna brings too little rain, too late

Get a little nutty at the Virginia Peanut Festival

‘Top Chef’ contender uses fresh, local foods in his restaurant

Organic production growing fast in Southwest Virginia

Fresh, local produce can be found beyond summer

August - 2008

Va. Farm Bureau surpasses 2008 membership goals

Tour of Powhatan County farms set for Sept. 13

Fresh squash can be enjoyed almost year-round in Virginia

Dry summer means good news for Va. wine lovers

Record corn and soybean harvests expected

Southwest Virginia is focus of annual pesticide cleanup

Canning is still going strong in Montgomery County

Niche product helps prevent beach erosion

Safe, fresh, local food is a reason to support farmers

Take some simple steps to avoid heat-related illnesses

Voters could amend Va. constitution on eminent domain

Transitioning farms requires research, perseverance

Consumers have assorted reasons for buying local

Annual field day to feature gourds, barbecue, fishing and fiber

Hay abundant compared to last year

Recent storms helped; more rain needed for Va. crops

Buying local is good for you, good for your community

July - 2008

New Alexandria farmers’ market seeks Virginia vendors

Berry season in Virginia means fresh, healthy choices

Sweet Virginia peaches are ripe for the picking

Farm Bureau launching ‘Save Our Food’ campaign

Farm prices high, fuel prices higher

‘Save Our Food’ Web site launches July 28

Committee works to solve plastic bag issue for farmers

How to safely handle produce

Before lightning strikes, go inside

USDA launches buy-in waiver program for disaster assistance

Governor’s School for Agriculture wrapping up at Virginia Tech

Sweet, sweet corn is ready for summer eating

Economy woes and high prices prompt scrap metal thefts

Farm-to-school program playing matchmaker

License plate raises more than $30,000 to save Va. farms

Newest federal farm bill takes effect

Report shows teens focused on texts, phone calls, not driving

Take steps to prevent farm fires this summer and fall

Virginia AITC program receives grant from Monsanto

Mmmmm-melons and cantaloupes are on the way!

June - 2008

Plan ahead for potential hurricanes, severe storms

Free workshops for elementary and middle school teachers

State inviting farmers to participate in overseas trade shows

Pick your own fun at a local farm

Deer management and donations needed year-round

Chippokes Engine Show displays change in farming technology

Farmers, gardeners ready to share with those in need

Wine grape production booming in Virginia

Owners standing up for property rights in eminent domain cases

Eating fresh produce helps seniors maintain muscle

New soybean plant open in Windsor

Kelo decision has spurred changes in 42 states

FDA confirms Virginia tomatoes are safe to eat

Williamsburg to host international oxen symposium

Prices up for July 4 picnic but still affordable

Pre-sliced Va. apples a growing business for producers

Virginia clam farm production leads the nation

May - 2008

Cornbread gains popularity in Japan

Chippokes Steam & Gas Engine Show is June 7 and 8

VSU to offer master’s degree in plant science this fall

Milk of any kind is good for you

Farm Link program launches transition database

Don’t let disasters strike twice—watch out for scams

Census of Agriculture forms accepted through early June

Wheat production booming in Old Dominion

American Farm Bureau heralds passage of new farm bill

Meat goat symposium scheduled for Aug. 2

Harnessing wind energy is focus of JMU conference

Farm Bureau: Food fix needs to be comprehensive

New and established farmers’ markets open for business

Farmers have closed ‘education gap’ in recent decades

Northern Neck farm museum grand opening set for May 24

Virginia Century Farms top 1,000 mark

Partial drought relief from April rains will not be enough

Specialty Foods Education Conference set for mid-May

Virginia strawberries are ripe for the pickin’

Biodiesel interest keeps growing in Virginia

Food price rise is the result of more than just ethanol

April - 2008

Farm Bureau secures naming rights at new fairgrounds

New distribution company to help small wineries

Higher food prices don’t reflect increased farm costs

In tight budget year, farming still sees legislative successes

Virginia’s historic pork industry now a tourist attraction

Seven Va. counties among best places to live

Deadline extended for hay and feed hauler exemptions

Producers concerned about illegally labeled milk

Caution and common sense can prevent workshop injuries

Farm Bureau president to participate in trade discussions

Corn, cotton acreage to drop; soybeans, wheat up

Study: Good landscaping really does add value to homes

New guide lists 170 venues for fresh Virginia farm products

Slow down, call someone when livestock is in the road

Despite challenges, young farmers say they're optimistic

Consumers seek more than food when grocery shopping

March - 2008

Conference will highlight opportunities for farm women

Game department’s online video teaches bear basics

Increased ethanol production saving consumers money

Slow-moving farm vehicles are back on the road

Studies reinforce benefits of fruits and vegetables

Record-high deer populations create problems on farms

Farmers invited to participate in international trade show

Farm Bureau highlighting ATV safety this spring

Farming-related poster and essay contests for kids under way

Farm Bureau announces agriculture photo contest

Cooking most common cause of home fires

County Farm Bureaus receive education grants

College dining trend: organic or locally grown foods

Workshop to focus on forestland preservation

‘Incredible, edible egg’ nets $67 million annually

Farm-related deaths doubled in 2007 in Virginia

Localities get $4.25 million in farmland preservation grants

February - 2008

Time to test your well

March 16-22 is Virginia Agriculture Week

Virginia peanut growers hope to rebound in 2008

Spring is near and nursery industry is ready

Barbados, Indonesia now allowing U.S. beef imports

Safety Awareness Week focuses on farm children

Farm Bureau urges support of ag education funding

Seed shortage challenges soybean growers

Counterfeit circuit breakers recalled, can lead to fires

Value-added producer grants available

Some Virginia farmers not optimistic as spring approaches

Timber theft in Virginia hits landowners hard

Drought leads to decreased cattle numbers

Farmers remind you to stay heart-healthy

Farmers celebrate food affordability with donations

Who’s in the Chesapeake Bay watershed?

Water quality protection can be costly for Virginia farms

January - 2008

Skyrocketing hay prices tough on livestock

Prices go up, yields go down

Farm Bureau seeking funds for equine center

Research station funding crucial not just for farmers

Funds will help protect livestock from coyotes

Farmers will need help meeting state water cleanup goal

Farmers lobby for funds to help protect watersheds

Celebrate Super Bowl Sunday with a big bowl of popcorn

Americans earn enough for a year of food by Feb. 5

Farmers warned to prepare for climate policies

Funds sought to help farmers protect water quality

Garden calendar can help track maintenance, prevent disease

Virginia farmers will help set national Farm Bureau policies

Program helping farmers use poultry manure as fertilizer

USDA: More Americans moving to rural areas

Opportunities in organic farming slated for conference

Conference to educate about drought-proofing pastures

Completed Census of Agriculture forms due in February

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