New partnership supports environment and farm productivity
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 3 and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) have signed their first ever Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation on sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
The five year partnership aims to expand joint efforts in areas such as agricultural best practices, regulatory programs, outreach, training, communication, and education. The agreement highlights a shared goal of maintaining productive farms while protecting Virginia’s environment.
“Establishing a strong relationship with our state regulators is a win for all farmers and ranchers,” said Turner Bridgforth, EPA’s Senior Advisor for Agricultural and Rural Affairs. “This MOU ensures farmers have a seat at the table when it comes to protecting our environment and Powering the Great American Comeback.”
EPA Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey and VDACS Commissioner Joseph Guthrie signed the agreement to promote collaboration between federal and state agencies. “This marks a new chapter for partnership between EPA and the Commonwealth to protect Virginia’s environment and help its agricultural economy thrive,” said Van Blarcom-Lackey.
Guthrie added, “By entering into this agreement, VDACS reaffirms its commitment to Virginia’s farmers and agribusinesses by developing solutions that keep agriculture productive and environmentally responsible.”
Following the signing, EPA and VDACS officials joined the Virginia Farm Bureau (VFB) for a roundtable with agriculture and forestry leaders in Richmond. VFB President Scott Sink said, “It is important for farmers and foresters to have their questions answered, their input considered, and the door opened for future dialogue.”
This agreement underscores the growing partnership between agriculture and environmental agencies to ensure a sustainable future for Virginia’s farming communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski