Agriculture

In the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the United Service Organizations estimates 181,510 Americans enlisted in the armed forces.

With hundreds of free agricultural podcasts exploring relevant topics, farmers have an array of options to keep their minds occupied during farm tasks or relaxation time.

Grayson County beef cattle farmer Richard L. Sutherland of Elk Creek was recognized Jan. 24 for 10 years of service on the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation board of directors.

Southampton County cotton and peanut producer M. L. Everett Jr. of Capron was recognized Jan. 24 for 15 years of service on the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation board of directors.

Franklin County farmer Scott E. Sink of Blacksburg was recognized Jan. 24 for 10 years of service on the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation board of directors. Sink recently was re-elected to a sixth two-year term as the organization’s vice president.

Coping with stressors on the farm is a learning process, and there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. That was a key takeaway from a Jan. 8 workshop called “Helping Farmers Cope with Stress and Anxiety” held during the 2023 American Farm Bureau Federation Annual Convention. 

“Who are you, and what have you done with my husband?’ Jane Doe suddenly didn’t recognize the man she married when an unforeseen emotional crisis blindsided their Central Virginia farm family in 2020.

As student debt outpaces earnings in rural areas, fewer up-and-coming veterinarians are compelled to work with farm animals.

Virginians can cultivate their own “foodscapes” by planting edible berries, flowers, fruits, herbs and nuts in their yards or small spaces such as patios, porches or sunrooms.

Virginia agriculture and forestry accounted for $105 billion in economic impact in 2021, and lawmakers continue to work on forming the next farm bill.