Posted by ppeery on September 28th, 2009

Recently the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Free Enterprise Forum held a meeting to discuss ways to improve the business of agriculture.  During the panel discussion, it was pointed out that one of the best ways to improve things ways to improve the connection between consumers and food producers.

 Panelist included, Todd Haymore, Virginia’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Chad Zakaib, the General Manager of Jefferson Vineyards and Frank Levering, author of the book, Welcome to the County, that speaks to the the divide between rural and urban Virginia.  During the discussion, Todd Haymore commented how crucial agricultural development and farmland preservation are to the future of the family farm and allowing agriculture to continue to be a key industry in Virginia.  Currently, agriculture, with its annual impact of $55 billion, is the number one industry in the Commonwealth.

 More information regarding this meeting and a podcast of the panel discussion can be found be visit Charlottesville Tomorrow’s website. 

Filed under: Agriculture, Education and Inspiration, General