WASHINGTON
,
November 16, 2022
(press release)
–
A new report from
With its diversity of crops, landscapes, and people,
"We're seeing some troubling trends across the Commonwealth," says
At the same time, rising input costs and volatile prices make it difficult for many farmers--especially small and midsized farmers--to make ends meet. Aspiring agrarians have trouble accessing land for farming, raising questions about who will tend fields, raise livestock, and grow food. Racial and economic inequities in agriculture persist, and disruptive and destructive weather events are more commonplace. Regenerate
Prioritizing collaboration and cooperation, Regenerate Virginia outlines an action plan to tackle the issues of
"Farmland protection and equitable land access are critical issues across the nation for our small acreage farms, and they're especially important in
Ecologically restorative farming systems are the backbone of regenerative agriculture. These systems include practices that improve wildlife habitat and water quality, advance soil health, and help farmers adapt to and mitigate climate change. The report suggests making financial assistance more accessible and providing direct technical support to farmers to promote broad and sustained adoption of regenerative systems. Peer-to-peer networks in which farmers mentor and help one another are also essential to the long-term success of regenerative production in
That combination of better practices and economic vitality is key, says Mary Sketch Bryant of the
With an approach that simultaneously advances regenerative practices, protects farmland, and supports the people and communities who feed and fuel the Commonwealth, Regenerate Virginia highlights the potential for a more equitable, sustainable, and productive future for
"I'm excited about what Regenerate Virginia could do for communities across the Commonwealth," shares
As one farmer noted during a Regenerate Virginia listening session, "Farming is about stewardship. It's about treading lightly and leaving places better than we found them. We want to have topsoil. We want to have biodiversity. ... And we really want to build a place where we can grow and learn from the land in addition to having a profit." That description is beautiful. It's powerful. And if we work together, says Regenerate Virginia, it is achievable. * * * Report link: https://farmlandinfo.org/publications/regenerate-virginia/ * * * Original text here: https://farmland.org/new-report-outlines-holistic-vision-for-regenerative-agriculture-in-virginia/
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