About the Virginia Agriculture and Forestry Initiative
What is the
Virginia Agriculture and Forestry Initiative?
The Virginia Agriculture and Forestry
Initiative is an innovative platform which promotes the future
viability of the Commonwealth's agriculture and forestry system.
Virginia's political leaders running for public office are asked
to endorse the initiative to demonstrate their support for the
industry.
Who supports
this initiative?
The Virginia
Agriculture and Forestry Initiative is supported by the growing
memberships of the Virginia Forestry Association, Virginia Farm
Bureau Federation, the Virginia Agribusiness Council and the
Virginia Forest Products Association. Read more information
about these supporting organizations.
How does it
work?
The Virginia
Agriculture and Forestry Initiative for 2007–2008 has been
presented for endorsement to all candidates running for the
Virginia Senate and Virginia House of Delegates in the upcoming
November 2007 elections.
A
list of candidates who have
endorsed the Virginia Agriculture and Forestry Initiative
2007–2008 is being compiled daily.
What is
agriculture and forestry?
Agriculture and forestry are the
roots of the Commonwealth, beginning nearly 400 years ago in
Jamestown. Today, agriculture and forestry contribute more than
$47 billion to Virginia's economy and account for over 15
percent of total jobs. More than 20 million acres of land in
Virginia is held by farmers and forest landowners. These lands
are responsible for the production of thousands of safe food and
valuable fiber products people use every day.
Why is our
agricultural and forestry system important?
Virginia's farms and forests have
been producing for hundreds of years and under the right
condition, they will continue to provide benefits for years to
come. Farmers and forest landowners today face the continual
challenges of Mother Nature, global competition, a fluctuating
dollar, additional regulations, and fewer supporting resources.
Agriculture and forestry enterprises
will continue to thrive as economic engines in Virginia if we
work together to restore and support profitability.
