Fabulous Farms
Virginia’s agricultural production is one of the most diverse in the nation. We can see this first hand when we drive or bike through fields of hay, wheat, peanuts, tobacco, sweet potatoes, tomatoes or corn to see it for ourselves. While the agricultural industry is good for the Commonwealth, if not done properly it can drain the soil of nutrients, pollute nearby waterways, and increase carbon outputs. Fortunately, in Virginia there are organizations working to farm sustainably for the benefit of their communities.
Arcadia Farms, located just miles from Washington DC, is one such organization. The farm uses sustainable growing practices such as rotating crops to protect topsoil, and integrating natural pest-repellents into their landscaping. Because they use proactive measures to deter pests, they are able to grow all their food organically. Their produce is then sold at affordable prices in low income and underserved neighborhoods in the DC area.
Just east of the Blue Ridge Mountains you’ll find Lynchburg Grows, a farm in Lynchburg. They employ people with disabilities and teach them agricultural skills. They also host workshops for students and community members interested in farming skills or cooking. Lynchburg Grows farms all their produce organically, protecting beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies. Keep Virginia Beautiful recently awarded Lynchburg Grows a $1,000 Green Grant to build a pollinator garden, which will further protect and feed these beneficial insects.
Bellair Farm, just outside of Charlottesville, grows over 50 kinds of produce. Their farm is Organic Certified and they are committed to farming in a way that preserves the health of the farm’s soil and surrounding ecosystems. They sell their produce using a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) system. Through this system, CSA members can subscribe to a farm and receive a certain share of the produce on a regular basis at local pickup locations. Bellair also has Barn Store hours on weekends during the Summer, and you can even pick your own produce for the freshest option.
The work of these farms, and others like them, makes our agricultural systems more sustainable and a healthier community for all. Keep Virginia Beautiful is grateful to our local farmers for the important work they do!