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.
The production of maple syrup is a time-honored tradition in West Virginia, and it’s enjoying an economic resurgence while attracting a new group of tourists to the mountains—especially to the high Alleghenies.Pocahontas County, the loftiest county in the state, enjoys the freezing temperatures necessary to create some of the state’s best maple syrups, and it’s … Read more
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture has submitted the state’s plan to regulate industrial hemp to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and officials are working toward the most business-friendly outcome possible.Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt said his office will continue to work with producers, who in 2019 produced a remarkably successful crop.“There is a lot … Read more
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture has launched a new agricultural training series for veterans in West Virginia, according to state Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt.The Veteran Education Training Series, also known as VETS, will host its first session “Boots-to-Business” at the West Virginia Small Farm Conference on February 20, though more classes will be … Read more
With more than 400 million maple trees, it’s no wonder maple syrup is one of the fastest-growing industries in West Virginia.To help keep the momentum and overcome challenges, a team of West Virginia University experts wants to educate landowners, foresters and loggers on the nuances of southern sugarbush management.According to Jamie Schuler, lead researcher and … Read more
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture is now seeking requests for applications for 2020 specialty crop block grants. Funds awarded are used to enhance the production, processing, and consumption of specialty crops in West Virginia.State Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt called the capital access program vital.“One of the largest barriers to small business development is … Read more
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture has confirmed the presence of a new invasive insect, the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycormia delicatula), in West Virginia.A small population of spotted lanternflies was detected in the Bunker Hill area of Berkeley County on October 30, and the findings were confirmed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.The spotted lanternfly is … Read more
Healthberry Farm has been awarded a silver medal in the sweet varietal mead category for its Honey River Basswood Mead, made with raw honey and spring water sourced on the farm in the Allegheny Mountains. Healthberry Farm owner Benjamin McKean says he’s honored to represent the state’s honey industry. “It is an honor to be … Read more
The U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide $242,335.25 to ten projects to enhance the production, processing, and consumption of specialty crops in West Virginia.W.Va. Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt, praised the value of the projects and of the Specialty Crop Block Grant program for development in the Mountain State.“From education to research, Specialty Crop Block … Read more
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture is inviting milk producers and the public to discuss the state of the dairy industry in West Virginia and will host five meetings in November to gather input, according to Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt.“The dairy industry is struggling across the country, just as it is here in West … Read more
Officials with the W.Va. Department of Agriculture warn that 18.7 percent of the Mountain State as of October 3, 2019, is under severe drought status.The severity is worst in the southern and southwestern counties, notably in Mingo, Mercer, Monroe, Summers, and Kanawha and adjacent areas.These areas may experience potential crop loss, as well as water … Read more
