2016 Shenandoah Valley Buy Fresh Buy Local Calendar! | Page 27

Agriculture in Virginia
Agriculture in Virginia is historically and economically significant. The economic impact of Virginia
agriculture is reported to be $55 billion annually, with the industry providing more than 357,000 jobs
across the state. For every job within the agricultural and forestry sector, another 1.5 jobs is supported
as an indirect economic benefit and impact. The annual economic impact results from $2.9 billion in
direct agricultural output; $26 billion in value-added industrial output; and an additional $26 billion
generated from other agriculture-related business output (Virginia Farm to Table Plan, p.1).
And yet, it is still hard today to put an exact value on the social impact and economic reach of food
and agriculture. With 1/2 of 1% of the U.S. population working in production agriculture and the
vast majority of people being one or two generations removed from farming, it is easy to forget about
the significance of Virginia agriculture and believe shipping food from 1,500 to 8,000 miles away is
normal and a better way to live.
Similarly, in our busy schedules, we often take working farms and landscapes for granted and do not
notice the beauty of our surroundings, how farming and farmers contribute to the social and moral
fabric of society, or consider the economic and community impact of farming operations as we drive
to work or go about our daily activities.
Other benefits of agriculture to the community and Virginia include scenic open working landscapes,
a strong moral and work ethic, better human health and diet, environmental stewardship, reduction of
greenhouse gases, sequestration of carbon, wildlife habitat, and biological diversity.
Since most people today are disconnected from actual farming and food production, it is easy to take
working farms and landscapes for granted and not fully appreciate the value of food production and
agriculture to a community and our surroundings. Nevertheless, a strong agricultural base and food
supply that can serve diverse local, regional and international markets is truly a blessing to be protected, appreciated, and planned for even as our communities grow and change. The next time you
drive to work, or have a moment in your busy schedule, take some time to reflect on the social impact
and economic reach of food and agriculture in your life and community.
Adapted from the Virginia Farm to Table Plan and an article by Eric Bendfeldt entitled, “The Value of Agriculture to a
Community: Why is farming important and why should I care if a farm is lost or goes out of production?”