Virginia Farm Bureau hosted the second episode of its new webinar series, “Faces of Virginia Farming” on May 6^th.  Behind every piece of food and fiber is a person with a unique story, and Faces of Virginia Farming gives the public an opportunity to hear directly from these farmers and connect with the people who grow what they eat and wear.

Just in time for Mother’s Day, the episode featured an engaging group of women from across the state who are directly involved in all aspects of their farms, hold leadership positions on boards and community organizations, and work off-farm jobs–all while keeping their families straight!

Putting the “real” in Real Farm Moms were Shelley Butler Barlow of Cotton Plain Farms in Suffolk; Sarah Rudolph of Double R Farms in Wythe County; and Kari Sponaugle of Church Hill Produce in Highland County. They shared authentic and entertaining stories of life on the farm, misconceptions they face, and why they trust our food and fiber supply.

If you missed the episode, you can watch it here. To stay informed of future events, follow Virginia Farm Bureau Federation on Facebook or email facesofvafarming@vafb.com with questions.

Legislation that would help farmers participate in carbon markets has been reintroduced to the U.S. Senate for consideration after clearing the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry on April 22.

The Growing Climate Solutions Act would establish a certification program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture to eliminate barriers that have limited farmers’ involvement in carbon credit markets. The bill previously was introduced in 2020.

The Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Certification Program would address previous issues relating to carbon markets, including a lack of reliable market information and access to qualified technical assistance providers and credit verifiers.

The certification program would ensure third-party assistance providers and credit verification services have agricultural expertise. It also would connect farmers with groups that would assist in monetizing sustainable land management practices.

Additionally, USDA would create a website to provide information for farmers interested in participating in carbon markets.

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