Workshop for interested farmers

By Sally Voth - svoth@nvdaily.com

As part of a continuing effort to help more Virginians get into farming, there will be a Farm Link and Transition Pilot Workshop Aug. 4 at the Weyers Cave Community Center.

The workshop, which is 10 a.m to 4 p.m., is the third in a series of programs which began last year, said Kevin Schmidt, coordinator for the Office of Farmland Preservation, a part of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The first was in Isle of Wight County, and the second in Pittsylvania County, he said.

According to a news release from VDACS, the Virginia Farm Bureau's Young Farmers Committee is helping to deliver the workshop. The two groups have also teamed up to start the Certified Farm Seeker Program. Schmidt said the farm seeker program grew out of the first pilot workshop.

"I think there's definitely interest from younger folks who either have no experience, or folks who have experience and are trying to find their own farming operation or access to additional land," Schmidt said on Friday.

He said there is an ongoing effort to link farmers transitioning into retirement with the next generation of farmers.

VDACS Commission Matthew Lohr will take part on a panel at the workshop, the release states. The workshop will also address legal and tax issues; leasing, purchasing and financing options; financial planning, insurance and more.

Space is limited, so registration is required, according to the release. The only fee is for lunch, and it's $5. For more information, call Schmidt at 804-786-1346, or email him at kevin.schmidt@vdacs.virginia.gov, or visit vafarmlink.org.