Virginia Farm Link Newsletter

Introducing The New Farmland Preservation Coordinator:

Welcoming Genny Harris:

We welcome Genny Harris as the new Farmland Preservation Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS). Though she received her degree in Environmental Science from Oklahoma State University, Genny grew up in Chesapeake, Virginia and is happy to now call Richmond her home.

In her new role, Genny administers the Virginia Farm Link Program, the Virginia Century Farm Program, the Purchase of Development Rights program, and the Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development Fund (AFID) for both the Planning and Infrastructure grants.

Genny comes to VDACS from her previous position with the Natural Resource Conservation Service. She enjoys working with producers and is excited for the opportunity to serve the farmers of Virginia. Her background in environmental science and agriculture drives her passion for land conservation, and she looks forward to improving Virginia Farm Link.

Genny encourages those with questions about any of her programs to reach out to her via email at Genette.harris@vdacs.virginia.gov.

Certified Farm Seeker Program

The Virginia Certified Farm Seekers program is a partnership of the Virginia Farm Bureau Young Farmers and the VDACS Office of Farmland Preservation (OFP). The Certified Farm Seeker program provides individuals seeking farming opportunities with a method to demonstrate their farming commitment and vision to interested farm or farm business owners.

Why should I become a Certified Farm Seeker?

By completing the program, you show farm owners that you have a farm business plan, on-farm experience, and a professional resume. This demonstrates that you are ready to enter into a farm business arrangement. This program is designed to help you build a positive relationship with the farm owner and transition into the industry.

What qualifies me to become a Certified Farm Seeker?

To qualify as a Certified Farm Seeker, you must create a Farm Seeker Profile, and complete the online module that relates most to your background. There are two optional tracks, the Experienced Farm Track and Regular Track.

Where can I find more Resources?

If you want to become a Certified Farm Seeker, please refer to our website's Certified Farm Seeker Page. This page has additional information and frequently asked questions. If you have further questions, please reach out to Genny Harris at farmlinkadmin@vdacs.gov.

Virginia Farm Link Statistics

Featured Resource & Upcoming Event:

Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition

Starting a farm is difficult, and succeeding beyond the first few years may be even more so. Beginning farmers and ranchers nation-wide face unique challenges to achieve their farm goals and aspirations. The long-term goal of the Virginia Beginning Farmer & Rancher Coalition (VBFRC) is to improve opportunities for beginning farmers and ranchers to establish and sustain viable agricultural operations and communities in Virginia. To reach our goal, we support the development and enhancement of whole farm planning curriculum and training, online resources, and social networking. Unique to the VBFRC is its coalition of agricultural organizations and farm business that work together to develop and implement these aims.

Sustainable Forestry and Small Wood Lot Management

Sustainable forestry management is complex, with the need to manage trees, wildlife and the environment. We will discuss topics such as determining your management goals; working with forest professionals; timber sales and harvest; water quality; forest health; wildlife and other unexpected factors. We will also provide information on USDA programs and services relating to forestry management, tree planting and financial assistance. At the end of the workshop we will visit two forestry sites.