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Agriculture in West Virginia plays a vital role in supporting the state’s economy, rural communities, and sustainable way of life. With fertile farmland and family-owned farms, West Virginia produces high-quality crops, livestock, dairy products, and specialty goods like maple syrup and honey. Local agriculture provides fresh, healthy food for residents and visitors while fueling farmers markets, farm-to-table restaurants, and agritourism experiences that attract tourists. The agriculture industry also helps preserve open spaces, protect natural resources, and maintain the scenic landscapes that define the Mountain State. By supporting local farmers and sustainable practices, West Virginia’s agriculture industry strengthens rural economies and promotes a healthy, resilient future for generations to come. Welcome to the Agritourism news directory at West Virginia Explorer. Be sure to visit our Agritourism guide for more information about agritourism in West Virginia.

West Virginia strawberries: The state's climate and geography have long provided favorable conditions for highly perishable strawberries.
Agriculture

WVU researcher develops robot that could transform West Virginia strawberry farming

by Clyde Craig

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — A groundbreaking robotic harvesting technology, developed with the help of a West Virginia University researcher, could one day transform how strawberries and other delicate fruits are grown and harvested in West Virginia, reducing food waste while helping farmers deliver higher-quality produce to consumers. The innovation comes as strawberry production continues to grow in … Read more

Larvae of the New World Screwworm fly burrow into the flesh of living animals, causing serious, often deadly damage. (USDA Image)
Agriculture

W.Va. agriculture officials monitoring screwworm after first U.S. detection

by Clyde Craig

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia agriculture officials say they are closely monitoring the recent detection of the destructive New World screwworm in Texas and have emergency response plans in place should the pest spread beyond the Southwest. The W.Va. Department of Agriculture in Charleston issued a statement Thursday after the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed … Read more

Keeping poinsettias vibrant starts with bright light, cool temperatures and careful watering only when the top inch of soil is dry. (WVU Extension Photo)
Agriculture

How to keep poinsettias healthy through the holidays—and for years to come

by Bianca Bosworth

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — With their vivid colors and deep holiday roots, poinsettias remain one of the most recognizable plants of the season in West Virginia. Keeping them healthy through the holidays—and even for many years—is easier than many people think. Sven Verlinden, an associate professor at West Virginia University in Morgantown, said poinsettias can stay … Read more

Chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, guinea fowl, quail, pheasants, and backyard mixed flocks are highly susceptible to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. (Photo courtesy Ditya Tma)
Agriculture

West Virginia confirms new avian influenza in backyard flock in Jackson County

by David Sibray

RIPLEY, W.Va. — State officials have confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a backyard flock in Barn on Cabin Fork in Jackson County, West Virginia[/caption] West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt said backyard flocks are especially susceptible during winter migrations. “As we enter the winter migration season, this case should serve … Read more

Pick-your-own pumpkin farms are growing increasingly popular across West Virginia.
Agriculture

The Pumpkin—a West Virginia tradition steeped in lore

by Justyn Marchese

FLAT TOP, W.Va. — With the exception of corn, perhaps no vegetable is as all-American as the pumpkin. Carved as a Jack-O’-Lantern or pureed into a Thanksgiving pastry, the pumpkin—and the pumpkin pie—are as American as, um, well, apple pie. In many ways, pumpkins are especially important in West Virginia, where they sustained families isolated … Read more

Specialty Crop Block Grants
Agriculture

Five West Virginia organizations receive $302,000 in specialty crop block grants

by Clyde Craig

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Five West Virginia agri-businesses, organizations, and agencies will share more than $300,000 in specialty crop block grant program funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, administered through the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. The grants will support marketing, education, and research initiatives that strengthen West Virginia’s specialty crop industry. The U.S. Department … Read more