Cultivate Spring 2024

Cultivate

Virginia Farm Bureau

Chincoteague Charm Island boasts state's official pony

“Around 50,000 people flock to Chincoteague Island every July to witness the famous pony swim.”

— CINDY FAITH, Museum

of Chincoteague Island executive director

Volume 17, Number 2 Spring 2024

Cultivate (USPS 025051) (ISSN 1946-8121) is published four times a year. February, May, August, October. It is published by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, 12580 West Creek Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238. Periodicals postage rate is paid at Richmond, VA and additional mailing offices. The annual Subscription Rate is $1.13 (included in membership dues).

Postmaster: Please send changes of address to, Cultivate, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, P.O. Box 27552, Richmond, VA 23261; fax 804-290-1096. Editorial and business offices are located at 12580 West Creek Parkway, Richmond, VA 23238. Telephone 804-290-1000, fax 804-290-1096. Email address is Cultivate@vafb.com. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. All advertising is accepted subject to the publisher’s approval. Advertisers must assume liability for the content of their advertising. The publisher assumes no liability for products or services advertised. The publisher maintains the right to cancel advertising for nonpayment or reader complaints about services or products.

Member: Virginia Press Association

EDITORIAL TEAM

Pam Wiley Vice President, Communications

Kathy Dixon Managing Editor

Nicole Zema Sr. Staff Writer/Photographer

Christina Amano Dolan Staff Writer/ Photographer

Maria La Lima Graphic Designer

Eleanor Stickley Graphic Designer

Alice Kemp Sr. Staff Writer/Advertising Coordinator

Horse

MEMBERS — Address change? If your address or phone number has changed, or is about to change, contact your county Farm Bureau. They will update your membership and subscription information.

Associate members will receive their next issue of Cultivate in August. The magazine is published quarterly, and back issues can be viewed at issuu.com/virginiafarmbureau

Did you know?

As you bite into a succulent strawberry, or grill an ear of crunchy corn, think about the pollinators that made those foods possible. In fact, pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we eat!

Bees, butterflies, birds, bats, moths and flies pollinate fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, beans, coffee beans and even cacao plants harvested for chocolate. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the economic value

of insect pollination worldwide is estimated at $217 billion.

Pollination is the process of moving pollen from one flower to another of the same species, which produces fertile seeds. Almost all flowering plants need to be pollinated. Some are pollinated by wind or water, and some are even self-pollinating. However, most flowering plants depend on bees, butterflies and other animals for pollination.

Pollinators have evolved with native plants, which are best adapted to local growing seasons, climate and soils. Fortunately, you can help pollinators thrive by growing native plants in your yard.

If you want to attract pollinators, consider alternatives to traditional

turf grass, and mix in native plants, shrubs and small trees.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources recommends choosing native flowering plants like sunflowers, coneflowers, goldenrods and pyeweed; small trees like downy serviceberry, Eastern redbud and native dogwoods; and vines like trumpet honeysuckle. DWR sells a native pollinator seed packet, which contains six native Virginia wildflower species that can grow statewide and support pollinators. To purchase, visit dwr.virgina.gov/ wildlife/habitat/seed-packets

For more information about pollinators, visit dwr.virginia.gov/ blog/celebrate-pollinators

Get an exclusive Farm Bureau discount, and get away

Head in the right direction with savings on car rentals

Save up to 30% off Avis base rates with Virginia Farm Bureau’s Avis Worldwide Discount number. In addition, enjoy other offers like dollars off, a complimentary upgrade or a free weekend day. Call 800-331-1212 or visit avis.com/ vafb to make a reservation.

Save up to 35% off Budget base rates with Virginia Farm Bureau’s Budget Customer Discount number. Plus get other great offers like dollars off, a free upgrade or a free weekend day. Call 800-527-0700 or visit budget.com/vafb to make a reservation.

Your Virginia Farm Bureau Avis Worldwide Discount number and Budget Customer Discount number are available from your county Farm Bureau and in the “Membership at Work” section of vafb.com (Register as a member on the site, and log in first).

Visit America’s largest home and 8,000-acre property

Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, is America’s largest home. Built by George and Edith Vanderbilt, this 8,000-acre property offers beautiful gardens, biking, carriage rides, horseback riding, kayaking, paddle boarding and more.

Farm Bureau members in Virginia can save up to $8 off online admission tickets to the historic Biltmore estate.

While there, browse through unique estate shops for wine lovers, gardeners, bookworms and everyone in between. Savor complimentary tastings of more than 20 handcrafted wines; view rare treasures from the Biltmore collection; and learn about the estate’s barnyard animals. Visit Biltmore.com/corporateperk for more information. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Visit award-winning Dollywood theme park, and save

Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Dollywood is recognized as one of the world’s best theme parks. Spanning 150 acres and located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood offers more than 40 rides and attractions, including Lightning Rod, the world’s fastest wooden coaster. Dollywood has won more awards than any other theme park for its live shows featuring country, bluegrass, Southern gospel and classic rock. Members may

purchase discount tickets to the Dollywood Theme Park by visiting vafb.com/benefits or Dollywood.com

Stay and save at thousands of Wyndham properties

Your Farm Bureau membership gives you access to significant savings at thousands of hotel properties. Reservations are required, and blackout dates may apply.

Whether you’re looking for an upscale hotel, an allinclusive resort or something in between, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has the right hotel for you! As a Virginia Farm Bureau member, you will save up to 20% off the “best available rate” at over 8,000 participating hotels worldwide.

To take advantage of this discount rate, call 877-670-7088 or visit wyndhamhotels.com/farm-bureau. Use the Virginia Farm Bureau identification number, available at vafb.com/ benefits and from your county Farm Bureau, when making a reservation. Present your membership card when you check in. Farm Bureau Members Receive $500* toward an Eligible New F-150®

*Visit FordRecognizesU.com/ FarmBureau today for complete offer details!

HORSES

That’s the impact Virginia’s horse industry has on the state’s economy, according to an economic impact study by the American Horse Council. See related article on page 22.

Central Virginia chicken farmers pivot to egg production, on Real Virginia

Featured this month on Real Virginia, Virginia Farm Bureau’s weekly television program:

• Find out how Central Virginia poultry growers banded together to form an egg cooperative after a major poultry company closed a plant.

• Learn how to make a coffee-rubbed skirt steak on a salt slab to start the summer cooking season.

• Discover the hidden gems of Middlesex County agriculture in Virginia’s Middle Peninsula region.

Real Virginia airs nationwide at 3:30 p.m. on the first and third Saturday of each month on RFD-TV on Dish Network and DirecTV, and on selected cable outlets around the state. It airs weekly on WBRA digital channel 15.2, the WHRO World Channel, WVVA Bluefield and WTKR Norfolk, and on the first and third weekends of each month on WVIR Charlottesville, WHSV Harrisonburg, WRLH Richmond and WSLS Roanoke.

YOUR SPEED YOUR DEGREE YOUR FUTURE

The Online Master of Agricultural and Life Sciences degree at Virginia Tech gives you the convenience of online learning and working at your own pace based on your lifestyle. You get the opportunity to learn from world renowned instructors from Virgina Tech.

EXPLORE OUR CONCENTRATIONS

- AGRIBUSINESS

- APPLIED ANIMAL BEHAVIOR AND WELFARE

- APPLIED NUTRITION AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

- EDUCATION

- ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

- FOOD SAFETY AND BIOSECURITY

-LEADERSHIP STUDIES

-PLANT SCIENCE AND PEST MANAGEMENT

Countdown to the State Fair of Virginia

As of May 1, there are exactly 149 days until the 2024 State Fair of Virginia opens on Sept. 27 and runs through Oct. 6

Fair fact:

The 2023 State Fair hosted more than 5,000 exhibitors and drew over 7,000 competition entries for livestock, vocational and technical education, visual and culinary arts, horticulture and more.

This year’s fair, themed “Where Home Grown Happens,” will showcase all that Virginia has to offer with a balanced presentation of diverse entertainment, attractions, shopping and delicious fair food—all while celebrating Virginia agriculture, said Marlene Jolliffe, the fair’s executive director.

Boasting one of the largest fair midways in the mid-Atlantic, with over 45 attractions, this year’s fair will offer visitors a greater variety of entertainment than ever before.

Families have a host of new activities and returning fan favorites to look forward to, including the Young MacDonald’s Farm exhibit and dazzling performances by Triple Crown Circus. Gigantic pumpkins, squashes and watermelons also will be on display, along with award-winning creations handmade by Virginia artisans.

The fair continues to offer unique learning opportunities for exploring Virginia agriculture and natural resources. With increased programming this year, fairgoers of all ages can watch a variety of livestock and equine exhibitions and competitions and make new discoveries in the revamped Natural Resources Area.

The Black Tie & Boots Gala will

return to Meadow Hall on Sept. 27 for a glamorous evening of fellowship and fundraising. Also returning is the Second Annual Taste of Virginia fundraising event on Oct. 3. The culinary event offers tastings of some of Virginia’s finest foods and beverages prepared by featured chefs, wineries, distilleries and breweries.

Proceeds from both events will directly benefit fair scholarships and youth programming.

There’s a lot to look forward to at the State Fair of Virginia. So, make it a year to remember, and mark your calendars to come celebrate all that Virginia has to offer!

Find details at StateFairVa.org

Visitors to the State Fair of Virginia will enjoy thrill rides, arts and crafts, animals, giant veggies, livestock competitions and more. This year's theme is “Where Home Grown Happens.”

Spring cleaning and yard equipment: Easily obtained and posing unexpected hazards

BY NICOLE ZEMA

Spring has sprung, homes need maintenance, and an array of useful equipment is available locally—no training required.

Reading the operator’s manual and safety labels is crucial to avoiding injury while sprucing up your property, said Curt Porterfield, training programs coordinator at Virginia Tech Environmental Health & Safety. The division offers training for personnel from farms, construction sites and specialty labs.

Commonly used tools and machines can pose unexpected hazards.

ZERO-TURN MOWERS

Both zero-turn and traditional riding mowers cut grass, but their mechanical

Porterfield said. Zero-turns especially succumb to overturns on slopes or when losing traction from wet or unstable terrain.

“Mow slopes along their sides, limited to 15 degrees, and slow down,” he continued. “Avoid making turns, but if turns are imminent, always turn headed downhill, very slowly.”

Many zero-turns have seatbelts, and rollover protective structures should be fully extended.

Safety tips:

• Avoid mowing close to water, ditches and retaining walls. Use a push mower or trimmer to maintain these areas first, mowing a buffer at least double the mower’s width.

• Wet grass can cause the mower to lose traction, or mechanical failures.

• Personal protective equipment— hearing protection, closed shoes, long pants, sunscreen and eye protection.

• Assess ground conditions, and remove debris and individuals (particularly children, who could be injured from discharged flying

LADDERS

“It’s just a ladder,” Porterfield said is a common attitude. “I’m going up a few feet, and it will only take a minute.” But serious injuries, or worse, can occur.

“The goal is maintaining proper balance while going up and down the ladder,” he said. “Always use the right ladder for the job.”

Safety tips:

• Pre-inspect ladders for defects like cracks, splits, missing rail rivets, loose rungs, bends or breaks in the hardware and bracing, or missing feet grips.

• Limit weight while traversing the ladder. Have someone hand tools to you once you have reached your working height, or use a rope.

• Traditional step ladders can easily overturn. Step ladders must be firmly positioned on all four feet without leaning on structures. Never stand on the ladder’s top cap.

• A 6-foot ladder will only give 4 feet of extra reach. A good rule—measure your work height, then subtract four to calculate the ladder size required.

• Extension ladders should have firm footing, positioned at 75 degrees. For elevated access, extend a secured

Zero-turn mowers are prone to overturns on slopes, so drive them slowly on hills.

Using the wrong ladder for the job could result in injuries.

Pressure washers exert a lot of power, which can cause injuries like cuts, burns or slips. Be sure to wear slipresistant footwear.

ladder at least 3 feet above it to provide stability while transitioning on and off.

PRESSURE WASHERS

Homeowners can obtain power washers to freshen facades and walkways.

“But the power, force and distance a pressure washer can move debris may be underestimated,” Porterfield said.

Cuts, burns, chemical and toxic gas exposure, electrocution, eye injuries, slips and trips, flying debris, penetration wounds, and hearing damage can occur during use.

Safety tips:

• Clear the work area first. While focused on a task, users can trip on hoses, or topple over from opposing pressure forces.

• Wear slip-resistant footwear, eye and hearing protection, and gloves.

OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT

Chainsaws, edgers, power clippers, string trimmers, tillers, dethatchers, aerators and leaf blowers are power tools used everywhere.

“They must be simple to use, because I see people using them in shorts and

flip flops,” Porterfield said he’s heard.

Safety tips:

• Ensure guards and shields are installed.

• Routinely maintain or sharpen components. A dull, worn or neglected tool increases the risk of an incident.

• Anticipate forces like kicking back, pulling in, wrapping, entanglement, vibration and flying debris.

• If equipment stalls, turn it off and wait until all the power has released before clearing. Residual energy can release unexpectedly.

• PPE—snug clothing, caps, work boots, chaps, ear and face protection.

• Avoid working alone.

Ensure the blades are sharp on power equipment like tree trimmers. Dull blades increase the risk of an accident.

Agency Manager Bart Mitchell earns Ralph Stokes Career Achievement Award |

BY NICOLE ZEMA

Selfless humility. Fierce competitiveness. Unyielding tenacity.

Agency Manager Bart Mitchell has demonstrated these traits for 33 years, which led to him receiving Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co.’s highest honor—the 2023 Ralph Stokes Career Achievement Award.

Mitchell is based in Goochland and Henrico counties, also managing Farm Bureau offices in Chesterfield and Prince George counties.

The award was announced at the annual VFBMIC Sales Conference in Williamsburg. Mitchell accepted the award in honor of his dad, district sales manager Bert Mitchell, who retired from VFBMIC in 2002.

“He was known as a Southern gentleman, and that image has always stuck with me,” Mitchell said, accepting the award. “My dad taught me everything I know. I’m very honored to be a second-generation employee with Virginia Farm Bureau.”

Ray Leonard, VFBMIC vice president of sales, said he knew Mitchell’s father personally.

“And the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

Last year’s Ralph Stokes honoree, agency manager Amanda Compton of Bedford County, presented the award. She said Mitchell’s positivity and lively spirit made an impression on her from the beginning.

“Our honoree is willing to help our organization and company grow and get better,” Compton said. “He is truly a global and strategic thinker and

provides great insight and leadership to our company.”

Mitchell has celebrated the professional and personal successes of colleagues and his insureds, she continued, while extending support during the challenging times in their lives.

“And more recently in the last few years, this support has been returned to him tenfold during times of his own personal loss—losing both his wife and an adult son in just a couple of years,” Compton noted.

Mitchell, flanked by his adult children James, Sydney and Mason, said the night was an emotional one.

“My family has been through a lot the last few years, and our faith has kept us grounded,” he said. “I’ve been very blessed by my clients, friends and family for the past 33 years of support. This

award means so much to me.”

Nomination criteria include supporting the organization’s sales and service objectives. Leonard said Mitchell has demonstrated this time and again by consistently qualifying for most bonuses, incentives and contests since joining the company. He’s also a top performer in the annual recognition program ranking, often achieving the Platinum designation level.

Mitchell joins Platinum Award winners and VFBMIC’s Most Valuable Agents on the 2023 Agent Advisory Council.

In his personal life, Mitchell has served on numerous committees and board seats to help ensure his church continues to thrive and remain a resource for the community. He also serves on an advisory board for a local business and is a member of the Longwood University Foundation Inc. board—his alma mater.

Compton said success in the insurance industry is dependent on fostering and establishing genuine relationships among insureds and potential customers.

“As has been the case with recent honorees, Bart makes an intentional effort to support fellow Farm Bureau employees,” she said. “He consistently reaches out to new agents throughout the company to introduce himself and offer support.”

Ralph Stokes Award Honorees

since 2013:

2022 Amanda Compton, Bedford County

2021 Jason Seward, Surry County

2020 Ed Terry, Floyd County

2019 Ed Sale, Amherst County

2018 Jim Jervey, Southampton County

2017 Chris Adams, Hanover County

2016 Mike Mullins, Washington County

2015 Debbie Murphy, Hanover County

2014 Jerry Funkhouser, Shenandoah County

2013 Robin Gloss, Campbell County

Bart Mitchell receives the Ralph Stokes Award from last year's recipient, Agency Manager Amanda Compton. She called Mitchell a global, strategic thinker.

Groundcover options abound for home gardeners, but choose wisely

BY NICOLE ZEMA

Groundcovers are a category of low-growing plants used for filling bare spots, shoring up slopes, serving as lawn alternatives and adding beauty to home gardens. Including them in the landscape presents ecological rewards as well as potential pitfalls.

Many popular, widely available groundcovers such as English ivy, liriope and periwinkle can be problematic when included in home gardens.

“These non-native species don’t just remain in our gardens,” explained Elaine Mills, a Master Gardener in Northern Virginia. “They can escape from cultivation when their seeds are carried by wind or animals into natural areas. There, they can invade the understory of forests, spreading further by rampant vegetative growth and producing a dense monoculture that suppresses native herbaceous plants.”

The leaves of packera aurea, or golden ragwort, are evergreen, and its yellow blooms attract pollinators in the spring. It grows in both sun and shade.

Phlox subulata, or moss phlox, groundcover.

Some exotic invasive vines can climb, smother and kill trees. Some invasive shrubs exude chemicals affecting the growth of native plants, and many can re-root, even from small fragments.

Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners encourage Virginians to choose native groundcovers suited to local soil and climate. Not only can they add beauty and interest through the seasons, but they also double as a critical resource for wildlife, offering pollen and nectar for bees and butterflies and seed and fruit for birds and other small animals.

“Before planting groundcovers, homeowners need the insights and decision-making information to select an aesthetic living carpet that will flourish in the specific conditions of their landscape,” said Alex Niemiera, Ph.D., a professor at the Virginia Tech School of Plant and Environmental Sciences. “If the function of a groundcover is to minimize weed growth, then the groundcover should be evergreen, and deep and thick enough to deter weed seedling growth.”

An appropriate groundcover will reduce yard maintenance as a “green mulch,” Mills added. Groundcovers also cool the ground, retain moisture, reduce soil compaction and erosion, filtering and slowing rain runoff.

Groundcovers for every landscape

Niemiera said the most important groundcover considerations are height, foliage persistence, method of spread, growth rate and aesthetic characteristics.

With species thriving in sun, shade, or both, groundcovers can be herbaceous or woody, flowery or grassy. They may grow in clumps, mounds, carpets or mats.

“The choice of an evergreen, woody perennial, or herbaceous groundcover depends on your preference and scale of the landscape,” Niemiera said.

Some species are ideal for edging garden paths, draping over walls, or

filling in hot, dry curbsides called “hell strips” where other plants can’t grow.

Native groundcover options

Non-native groundcovers designated as invasive in Virginia include ajuga or bugleweed, creeping Jenny, English ivy, goutweed or bishop’s weed, Japanese pachysandra, liriope, periwinkle and wintercreeper or creeping euonymus.

Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia recommends a wide range of native alternatives, particularly in plant hardiness zones 7a through 8, mostly east of the Blue Ridge.

PERENNIALS for SUN

• Phlox subulata, or moss phlox

• Antennaria plantaginifolia, or plantain-leaved pussytoes

• Opuntia humifusa, or eastern prickly pear cactus

• Salvia lyrata or lyreleaf sage

• Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, or aromatic aster

PERENNIALS for SHADE

• Podophyllum peltatum, or mayapple

• Polystichum acrostichoides, or Christmas fern

• Asarum, or wild ginger

• Viola, or violets

• Solidago caesia, or blue-stemmed goldenrod

• Packera aurea, or golden ragwort

GRASSES & RUSHES

• Schizachyrium scoparium, or little bluestem

• Juncus effusus, or common or soft rush

• Chasmanthium latifolium, or river oats

WOODY PLANTS

• Juniperus horizontalis, or creeping juniper

• Rhus aromatica, or ‘Gro-Low’ fragrant sumac

• Hypericum prolificum, shrubby St. John’s wort

• Parthenocissus quinquefolia, or Virginia creeper

TIP: Tackling invasive English ivy

To mitigate English ivy that spreads to natural areas on your property, Extension Master Gardeners advise phoning a friend. Using a shovel with a jagged edge, dig in at a 45-degree angle and roll the vine up like a rug, The first person digs the roots while a helper does the rolling.

“And be careful where you put it,” Mills says. “Bag that up, and put it out with the trash!”

Learn more about Virgnia natives

For information on many more groundcover choices, view a MGNV webinar at: bit.ly/3PgDLp5

See a series of short videos on native plant gardening at: bit.ly/48Wa9Ee

Plants like common rush, left, mayapple, center, and aromatic aster provide quality groundcover for areas that need filling or serve as a lawn alternative.

Discover the many wonders

of Chincoteague Island,

home of the official state pony

BY CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN

Endless natural wonders await discovery along Virginia’s Eastern Shore, where world-famous ponies roam free.

The picturesque Chincoteague Island, nestled between Assateague and Wallops islands, has long captured the hearts of avid birders, fishermen, outdoor adventurers and pony lovers.

The island’s sandy beaches and bountiful woodlands, wetlands and waters have nurtured a multitude of wildlife for centuries, including the beloved Chincoteague ponies that draw 1.5 million visitors every year.

Local high school student Sophia Gallivan led historic efforts in 2023 to claim the iconic breed as the official state pony last year—honoring the ponies that brought economic prosperity, international fame and lasting intrigue to Virginia’s beautiful resort island.

Origins of the Chincoteague pony are mysterious

While wild ponies have roamed Assateague and Chincoteague islands for centuries, how and when they arrived remains a mystery.

“One theory is that the bulk of these ponies came from shipwrecked horses from the 17th and 18th centuries, and there’s validity to that story,” said Cindy Faith, executive director of the Museum of Chincoteague Island.

Chincoteague Island

JIM MONTENIERI

Accounts from survivors of the 1750 La Galga shipwreck suggest a connection to the Spanish horses that swam ashore. Recent DNA analysis of a fossilized horse tooth found 1,300 miles away in Haiti uncovered a significant ancestral tie.

While there may never be a clear explanation, the ponies’ presence on the island has long been appreciated as a stroke of serendipity.

The children’s book that transformed the island

The island’s hopping oyster and clam business brought economic prosperity from 1800 into the next century. But the seafood industry began to wane by 1925, and the new Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company was in desperate need of modern equipment.

To help raise funds, the town authorized the company to incorporate a carnival into the annual Pony Penning event—a longtime tradition celebrated by Assateague and Chincoteague islands.

“Right away, they knew they had something that would grow and really provide for the fire department, and of course, they were right. It was a huge success,” Faith remarked.

It sparked the interest of author Marguerite Henry, who eventually wrote the popular 1947 children’s book, Misty of Chincoteague. She penned it after visiting the island and meeting the now-famous Beebe family and their newborn foal, Misty, who grew up on the Beebe Ranch.

The heartwarming story cast the small coastal island on the international stage, and Chincoteague became known as a destination for pony lovers.

Today, around 50,000 people flock to the island every July to witness the famous pony swim, where “Salt Water Cowboys” herd the wild ponies from their home on Assateague to

Chincoteague Island—carrying on the beloved, age-old tradition.

A love that spans generations

When the Museum of Chincoteague Island had just three months to save Beebe Ranch from development last year, donations and heartfelt letters came pouring in from around the world.

“Most of them came from people who had read that book as a child, and

it always held a special place in their heart,” Faith said.

The museum officially assumed ownership of the ranch on June 30, and plans are underway to transform Misty’s home into a permanent exhibit. If you visit the museum’s extensive Chincoteague pony display, you can learn more about the famous ponies, Misty and Stormy, and the family that raised them.

Visitors to Chincoteague Island on Virginia's Eastern Shore can see wild ponies and other wildlife; participate in water-based recreational activities; visit the Museum of Chincoteague Island to see the famed Misty of Chincoteague on display; and experience spectacular sunsets.

Chincoteague Island

COURTESY OF

COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM OF CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND

The museum also offers walkthrough exhibits that explore the island’s evolution from prehistoric to present-day, offering fascinating glimpses of the area’s shipwrecks, seafood industry, Colonial living, Native American culture and more.

The museum will feature six new exhibits this year. Visit chincoteaguemuseum.com for more information.

plan your visit

Chincoteague Island

Escape to paradise

Witness the majestic Chincoteague ponies grazing throughout the year in their permanent home by traversing the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge trails. Dubbed “a birder’s paradise,” the 14,000-acre refuge also provides habitat for over 300 migratory birds and a variety of other wildlife species.

Chincoteague and Assateague islands offer endless opportunities to connect with nature. Visitors can rent a boat for fishing, crabbing or clamming in the abundant waters; enjoy stunning views of birds, ponies and sunsets on a scenic boat cruise; and explore the refuge’s miles of serene hiking and biking trails.

With endless immersive wonders throughout the island, Cindy Faith, executive director of the Museum of Chincoteague Island, recommends bringing a pair of binoculars.

“This is a place to find yourself,” she said.

Discover all that Virginia’s pony paradise has to offer by visiting the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce’s website at chincoteaguechamber.com

JIM MONTENIERI

Chincoteague

Bathed in moonlight:

Enchanting nighttime gardens bring magic to landscapes

BY ALICE KEMP

When we think of gardens, we typically picture glorious arrays of bright blooms shining during daylight.

But gardens can be just as captivating after sunset. With dreamy hues of silver and white shimmering in a lunar glow, a moon garden offers an ethereal aesthetic to landscapes, creating a spellbinding evening oasis.

“Moon gardens are designed to be viewed at nighttime,” said Kirsten Conrad, a Virginia Cooperative Extension agriculture natural resources agent in Arlington. “They usually feature plants that have silver, white or other light-colored effects in the garden.”

Also called white gardens, these twilight designs date back centuries, with reflective flowers and accents gracing gardens of Indian emperors and medieval Japan.

Plan your placement and plants

“The garden needs to be unobstructed by trees,” said Ed Olsen, Extension Master Gardener director and consumer horticulture specialist. “It’ll need to be more full sun, so you get the whole exposure of the moon’s rays reflecting off the plants.”

Whether a garden is viewed from a window or during a leisurely walk, flowers and foliage are carefully curated for moonlit evenings. Flora like white irises, the phlox paniculata ‘David’ cultivar, and the native yarrow all do well in full sun and illuminate dusky spaces.

Moon gardens also are known for showcasing nocturnal plants that come alive at night, including Four O’Clocks, with pale flowers that bloom in the late afternoon and close before morning. Moon vine—a night-blooming morning glory—enchants with luminous white blossoms from dusk till dawn.

Tropicals can add an exotic flair, Olsen suggested, like angel’s trumpet or the dramatic queen of the

dark—night-blooming cereus—that turns moon gardens into a special occasion with stunning, once-a-year blooms.

As with any garden, plant selection should be based on space, climate and site conditions. Delicate tropicals “lend themselves better to pots or containers so you can move them indoors during winter,” Olsen explained.

Mixing an array of sizes and shapes adds visual interest. Flowering shrubs like native oakleaf or white wood hydrangeas serve as a garden border or backdrop. For smaller spaces, a native white clematis virginiana climbing a trellis or fence achieves a similar effect. And while moon gardens primarily dazzle under open night skies, shadier areas can be incorporated with shade-loving natives like cimicifuga and white wood aster.

Selecting plants with varying hues, variegation and textures enhances a moon garden’s allure, like the soft, silver-tinged lamb’s ear and silver lace vine. The fuzzy, scalloped leaves of lady’s mantle add a starry sparkle from captured raindrops and dew. Edible elements can be mixed in with silvery herbs like rosemary, thyme and purple-hued lavender alongside variegated ornamental pepper plants.

And when planning design, “don’t just plant one flower here and one there,” Conrad noted. “Flowering plants show up best when they’re massed together.”

Finally, plant in succession. Incorporating early spring flowering bulbs and shrubs, summer annuals, fall-blooming white mums and winter flowers like Lenten roses ensures yearlong interest.

Moonlit beauties attract evening pollinators

Not just for human enjoyment, moon gardens benefit ecosystems and entice pollinators working the night

shift. Moths flutter across ghostly flowers, and bats carry pollen on their fur while dining on pests like harmful beetles and mosquitoes.

“If your focus is on supporting pollinators, you should select native plants whenever possible,” Conrad advised.

The native button bush shrub with round white flowers reminiscent of a full moon benefits pollinators day and night, and the native evening primrose beckons with fragrant night-blooming blossoms.

Accents enhance evening ambiance

“Moon gardens can provide us with a multisensory place of respite,” Conrad said.

Interspersing fragrant plants like night-blooming jasmine, tuberose or summersweet will fill the air with heady aromas, adding a mystical appeal to quiet evening strolls.

Gently trickling fountains and other water features can create a tranquil atmosphere and are a hydration source for pollinators.

Hardscapes like white gravel or steppingstones provide a delineated pathway meandering through a moon garden. Ambient lighting subtly placed along these pathways adds a natural, soft glow while ensuring safe access and visibility.

“You want to make sure lights are directed more down at the pathway so you’re getting that reflected moonlight off the foliage or flowers,” Olsen suggested.

Incorporating gentle solar lights, string lights and strategically uplighting, downlighting or backlighting nearby trees enhances the moonlit atmosphere without being too harsh or distracting.

Finally, add a seating area to retreat from the busy day and enjoy the midnight air.

“Moon gardens are a cool concept,” Olsen said. “You’re getting out to a garden at a time you normally might not.”

Plant with care by avoiding invasives

Countless plants can star in moon gardens, but Virginia Cooperative Extension agent Kirsten Conrad recommends leaving the following out of the moonlight.

Clematis paniculata: A highly invasive vine often mistaken for its relative, the beneficial clematis virginiana native— be sure to read labels at garden centers.

Garlic mustard: A problematic invasive that loves wooded areas, seeds prolifically and outcompetes other plants.

Japanese knotweed: Sold as an ornamental plant with white flowers, this aggressive spreader has dense foliage that chokes out native plants.

Star of Bethlehem: A highly invasive grass-like plant with star-shaped white flowers that outcompetes natives and is difficult to control.

Phlox

Yarrow

Cimicifuga

Clematis virginiana

Button bush

Lenten roses

Beach

by people

are

disabilities out of reclaimed wood and decorated with natural materials from the Chesapeake Bay. The Virginia Beach company has donated more than $150,000 from the sale of over 5,000 birdhouses to various charities.

BIRDHOUSES:

Building new beginnings for birds and bird lovers

BY CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN

Some of the world’s greatest journeys are taken in pursuit of a home.

Purple martins are among the 3.5 billion migratory birds that return to the U.S. every spring—traveling thousands of miles in search of food and a safe place to raise their young.

Sightings of the violet-green beauties in Virginia offer a powerful reminder of their remarkable resilience, and the far-reaching impact of birdhouses.

Suffering from massive population decline over the last 50 years, the species’ survival is largely due to the efforts of the Purple Martin Conservation Association and the thousands of people who hang up martin nest boxes around the country.

With habitat loss, climate change and other conditions posing threats to wild birds, incorporating birdhouses in the yard can help protect nature’s marvels for generations to come.

Carrying on a Native American tradition

To artist Yvonne Goad, a member of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, crafting artful homes for her feathered friends is a “labor of love” that keeps alive a time-honored custom.

Making birdhouses from hollowedout gourds is a longtime tradition of many Native American tribes. The ancient plant also was used to craft musical instruments, bowls and utensils.

“You can make a whole lot with gourds—I just can’t keep them,” laughed Goad.

She’s devoted the last 14 years to creating gourd art with a variety of materials and intricate methods, including “hundreds” of birdhouses.

Just like the colorful gourds that crowd her art studio and home in Prince George County, no two birdhouses are alike. Next to providing a comfortable nesting spot for small

Yvonne Goad of Prince George County uses the Native American method of hollowing out gourds to craft birdhouses and bowls.

Bluebird

Bungalow birdhouses

made

with

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN

BIRDHOUSES

birds, her hand-painted homes add beauty and color to the landscape.

Finished with two coats of spar varnish, each birdhouse will last years if hung in indirect sunlight, Goad said.

Shoppers around the world can now purchase Goad’s unique creations online. She officially launched her Etsy shop, Gourds4All, this spring alongside other indigenous small business owners and artists.

She and fellow Native Craft Artist Readiness Program members Ethan Brown, Desiree Nuckols and Allyson Gray are among the many Virginia Natives carrying on the craft of their ancestors.

The art of doing good things

Stephen Todd of Virginia Beach has lived by a profound motto: “Do Good Things.”

Even when a local grocery store closure left Todd, who has Down syndrome, with the challenge of finding another job, his lifelong passion for helping others took the lead.

Seeing his love for a bluebird family nesting in their yard, the Todd family quickly hatched the idea to build and sell birdhouses for charity out of the family garage.

When they asked Todd to pick a charity, “he came up with 20” that involved helping the environment and others with disabilities.

“We thought, ‘We’ll try this and change the charity every month for as long as we can do it,’” Todd’s mom, Jamie, fondly recalled. “That was in 2018, and we’re still going strong.”

Today, Bluebird Beach Bungalows has donated over $150,000 to various charities and produced over 5,000 birdhouses—each one made by someone with a disability. They’re constructed using donated reclaimed wood, and decorated with sea glass, shells and other natural materials from the Chesapeake Bay.

An outpouring of community support has resulted in a thriving bluebird population, with birdhouses hung

up practically “everywhere” around town, including schools, churches and assisted living communities.

“It’s taught me that good begets good, and people want to help in any way they can,” Jamie reflected. “We get more out of it than we give.”

While producing around 20 birdhouses a week is a lot to keep up with, Todd, with a “heart of gold,” has no intention of slowing down.

Birdhouses are available at local retailers, Sugar Plum Bakery, A Shore Thing Gifts and Southern Branch Nursery. Online orders can be placed through the charity’s Facebook page. Shipping is not available.

Visit facebook.com/ bluebirdbeachbungalows for more information.

Birdhouse basics

In order to attract friendly visitors to the yard, birdhouse builders and buyers should be aware of a few key necessities:

• The box dimensions and entrance hole size should be designed to accommodate the particular bird species you want to attract.

• Proper ventilation and drainage holes will keep the birds cool on hot summer days and provide easier cleanup after breeding season.

• Enough roof overhang will keep rain from blowing into the box.

• A hinged side, front or roof will allow easy access for thorough cleaning after every family.

• Avoid perches, as they can invite predators and undesirable bird species.

• Use sturdy materials like wood or recycled plastic. Using natural materials is ideal. Avoid materials like metal, which can cause a house to overheat.

• Ideal placement in the yard depends on the type of species you’d like to attract. For example, a bluebird is more likely to visit a nest box if it’s placed out in the open.

Birdhouse dimensions for specific species, construction basics, cleaning tips, methods of deterring unwanted predators and other beneficial habitat features are available on the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website: dwr.virginia.gov

For more tips on creating bird habitats, search the Virginia Cooperative Extension Publications page: pubs.ext.vt.edu.

Stephen Todd of Virginia Beach makes birdhouses for charity—helping both bluebirds and local organizations. A community volunteer helps Todd construct and decorate the birdhouses. BLUEBIRD

Take the reins on equine biosecurity

ALICE KEMP

The Virginia Horse Center in Lexington had just implemented a new biosecurity protocol when it faced a critical test.

Two prized American Saddlebreds competing in the June 2023 Shenandoah Classic Saddle Horse Show exhibited symptoms of the contagious and potentially serious equine herpesvirus.

The horses’ veterinarian noticed they were wobbling while standing, an alarming neurological symptom. Management was notified, and the horses were isolated. They were quickly transported to a veterinary practice where they tested positive for virus, which can cause severe neurological disease. Both horses were euthanized.

“The thing that saved the horse show was taking quick action,” said Glenn Petty, VHC’s recently retired CEO. “Getting both horses isolated and calling the State Veterinarian’s Office.”

The VHC underwent lockdown.

Eighty horses stabled near the infected two were quarantined and monitored, and the show resumed after it was determined there was no additional exposure. A team of veterinarians thoroughly disinfected the facility, and the VHC and State Veterinarian’s Office were lauded nationally for their response to the biosecurity threat.

“Being educated and prepared ahead of time was very important,” Petty reflected. “We did everything by the book, but we also had a lot of luck.”

Taking measures to mitigate risk

Fast, decisive action by facility management during an outbreak is crucial, but owners, riders and trainers also can be proactive to safeguard their horses.

“It’s just like people when they go to a show or a restaurant and they’re going to be potentially exposed to infectious diseases,” said Dr. Nathaniel White, professor emeritus at Virginia Tech’s Marion duPont Scott Equine

Follow best practices to keep your horses healthy and safe at shows

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY

Abigail Buikema competes with her horse, Cool, at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington.

Medical Center and director of the Equine Disease Communication Center. “Horse shows are one of the best ways horses can contract a new disease because they’re mixing with horses from different areas.”

Equine pathogens can spread through air, direct contact, by insects, and on equipment, tack and even people. Before traveling, owners and trainers should ensure horse trailers are clean, take their horses’ temperatures and confirm vaccinations are current.

When at horse shows, minimize exposure risk by keeping stalls clean, avoiding common water troughs, and not sharing equipment, tack and grooming tools between horses. While horse shows are social occasions, keeping distance from others and preventing nose-to-nose contact goes a long way toward staying safe.

Even small habits can get horses in trouble, White said. Submerging hoses when filling water buckets and using the same rag to check bits and wipe horses’ mouths are recipes for cross-contamination.

“It’s like sharing a handkerchief,” he cautioned.

Dangerous pathogens spread quickly

EHV is common in the environment, with around 40% of horses potentially carrying the virus without exhibiting any signs. The disease most often causes mild respiratory symptoms, but in rare cases like the two American Saddlebreds, horses can develop more dangerous forms.

“Other concerning diseases are influenza and strangles,” White said. “These aren’t as deadly, but they can certainly make horses’ performances off.”

As with flu viruses in people, equine influenza is highly contagious and transmitted in a variety of ways. Strangles, on the other hand, is almost always spread by contact.

“Strangles is caused by a bacteria, so it can last on water troughs for a month or longer,” White explained.

Strangles causes upper respiratory infections that can lead to lymph node abscesses and other wounds. Horses can be carriers and spread it when they mingle with others.

Travel can stress horses, causing illness and symptoms to develop. When at shows, owners should take horses’ temperatures twice daily, and if the temperature is above 101.5, suspect a problem and “monitor that horse closely,” Petty advised. Sick horses should be reported to management and a veterinarian.

Being vigilant and recognizing symptoms early, such as fever and behavior changes—lethargy, drowsiness or lost appetite—and taking action can ensure horses get treatment and limit disease spread.

When in doubt, “ask for advice,” Petty suggested. Whether it’s a veterinarian or an experienced trainer, there’s someone “always willing to give you advice.”

Virginia’s horse sector is an economic driver

According to an economic impact study conducted by the American Horse Council, Virginia’s horse industry has a $2 billion impact on the state’s economy.

• The commonwealth’s equine sector generates 38,874 jobs.

• 30.5%, or 1 million, Virginia households contain horse enthusiasts.

• There are 183,643 horses in Virginia, ranking the state 13th in equine population.

• 600,000 acres of land are used for horses and horse-related purposes.

• Recreation is the largest sector of Virginia’s horse industry, with more than 10% or 330,000, households participating in trail riding.

• This recreation sector alone supports 10,615 jobs and adds $442 million in value to the state economy.

For more information on biosecurity at horse shows and alerts on disease outbreaks, visit the Equine Disease Communication Center at equinediseasecc.org

Horse venues often post safety tips for participants; and equipment like tack and buckets can be sources of contamination and shouldn’t be shared.

Horse owners, riders and trainers should be vigilant in monitoring their animals’ behavior while at horse shows to catch symptoms early and minimize the risk of spreading disease.

Protect your business from debilitating employment-related lawsuits

BY CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN

It’s the responsibility of every business owner to maintain a workplace free of harassment and discrimination, and the legal costs of a single employment-related claim can be staggering.

The number of lawsuits filed by employees against their employers is on the rise, with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filing 143 employment discrimination lawsuits in fiscal year 2023—more than a 50% increase over fiscal year 2022.

To help protect a business from financial hardship, it’s critically important for business owners to obtain the right coverage for defense costs and damages related to employment-related claims.

Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. has partnered with Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Co. to offer specialized Employment Practices Liability Insurance to mid-size and small businesses through a business owner’s policy endorsement.

EPLI coverage helps businesses deal with a variety of claims, including:

• Discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age or disability

• Harassment, including sexual harassment

• Wrongful termination

• Retaliation

VFBMIC additionally offers protection from accusations of harassment or discrimination by third parties, such as claims made by customers, suppliers or vendors.

“This means you don’t need to have employees for this protection to benefit your business,” explained Lisa Whitus, VFBMIC commercial lines underwriting manager. “If you do have employees, the most important tool your business can have is an employee handbook.”

The most effective form of protection is prevention. Business owners should utilize online risk management tools and information to help prevent costly employmentrelated lawsuits from happening in the first place.

Fortunately, EPLI insureds receive complimentary access to EmployerProtection.net and its comprehensive risk management resources. These address understanding complex employment-related issues and requirements; maintaining a workplace free of harassment and discrimination; and preventing harassment and discrimination lawsuits.

The website offers easy-to-use tools and information for employers, including:

Model employee handbook that includes:

» Sexual harassment policies

» Employment at-will statement

» Progressive discipline procedures

» Workplace rules and prohibitions

Article library:

» Employment-related news

» Legal opinion

» Podcasts and videos

Model forms and policies, including:

» Employment application

» Performance review

» At-will notice

Web-based training modules to:

» Prevent sexual harassment

» Prevent discrimination

» Prevent wrongful termination

» Promote ethical behavior

Important links:

» Federal laws and agencies

» State laws and agencies

Control panel for employers:

» To manage user registration

» Track individuals’ usage and training progress

For more information on business owners’ policy options or to request a personalized quote, contact your local Farm Bureau office or visit vafb.com/insurance/ business-owners.

Umbrella policies cover you when other liability limits run out

BY KATHY DIXON

When an umbrella is folded up, it can’t keep you dry. But unfurl it, and you are protected from rainfall and prevented from getting soaked.

An umbrella insurance policy is very similar, said Ben Ashby, personal lines underwriting manager for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co.

“Just like an umbrella opens up and covers you, an umbrella insurance policy envelops all of the listed underlying policies you have, and protects you against liabilities you have listed under your existing homeowners, auto and boat policies,” Ashby noted.

Umbrella policies cover unexpected accidents and help pay what you owe if you’re found at fault for someone else’s injuries or property damage.

Ashby offered the following example. Let’s say an insurance customer has a homeowners policy with a $500,000 liability limit.

One day while that customer is

repairing his home, a friend comes to visit. He decides to join the insured on the roof, and even offers to lend a hand. While the two are up there, the friend slips, falls off the roof and breaks his leg.

The friend’s broken leg requires multiple surgeries and months of physical therapy, and the medical bills total $700,000. Even though it was an accident, the insured could be found at fault. The liability coverage under his homeowners insurance policy covers $500,000, but what about the additional $200,000?

Without umbrella insurance, the customer would be forced to use his hard-earned savings, house or other assets to pay the remaining costs.

But if the insured has an umbrella policy with an additional $200,000 or more in liability coverage, it would then kick in and cover the remaining costs.

“When the limits on your regular

policy are exhausted, that’s when you need the umbrella policy,” Ashby explained. “If you don’t have the umbrella, then you’re in deep trouble.”

In addition to providing liability protection for property damage, injuries and legal fees, umbrella policies may cover unique situations like libel, defamation and slander. They also travel with you and can even cover instances that happen away from home, such as on vacation.

Ashby said that you never know when you may need the extra coverage, so it’s best to play it safe. Umbrella policies are reasonably priced, and he recommends discussing them with your local Farm Bureau insurance agent. They can examine your current policies and existing limits and then make recommendations for additional umbrella coverage.

To learn more, visit vafb.com/ insurance/umbrella, or call your local Farm Bureau insurance agent.

Get the lowdown on Medicare during free virtual seminars

Navigating the ins and outs of Medicare can be complicated and confusing. To help shed light on the process, Virginia Farm Bureau is hosting another round of its free virtual Medicare seminars for members throughout the spring and summer.

The informational seminars will help members gain an understanding of how Medicare works, eligibility, enrollment periods, and plan options and timelines—all from the comfort of their homes. The virtual sessions typically last an hour and are open to anyone, regardless of age. A health insurance representative from VAFB Health Insurance Solutions will present the material and answer questions.

Register for free virtual Medicare seminars by contacting your local Farm Bureau office, or register online at vafb.com/health/medicare-seminars

Upcoming Medicare seminars:

May 14, 6 p.m. June 6, 2 p.m.

July 18, 10 a.m. Aug. 20, 6 p.m. September 21, 11 a.m.

Watch out for slow-moving farm equipment on roadways this spring

BY CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN

As Virginia farmers plant their crops this spring, motorists should keep an eye out for slow-moving farm equipment on public roads—it could save a life.

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting industry workers experienced one of the highest fatality rates at 20 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers in 2021. Transportation incidents, which include tractor overturns and roadway crashes, were the leading cause of death for these farmers and farmworkers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Many of these deaths occur during spring planting season.

“Drivers can expect to see an increase in the amount of farm equipment out on the roads right now, and most of that equipment moves very slowly,” warned Matt Nuckols, Virginia Farm Bureau safety coordinator.

A car traveling 55 mph takes 5 seconds to brake 300 feet— the length of a football field—to avoid colliding with farm equipment traveling 15 mph.

To prevent catastrophe, drivers should look out for bright orange SMV emblems on the backs of all farm tractors and self-propelled machinery. The signs warn that a vehicle is only capable of moving up to 25 mph.

Many farmers also use flashing amber lights, reflective decals, flags and escort vehicles to alert approaching drivers.

Nuckols said farmers are encouraged to use escort vehicles whenever they can—especially with equipment that’s wider than half of the road.

Drivers should slow down when approaching farm equipment, and give themselves enough space to stop. Equipment operators cannot see drivers who are following too closely.

“There’s no benefit to being right on top of a tractor or piece of farm equipment,” he noted. “Just leave some extra space and remember that they might be turning pretty soon.”

While it can be tempting to try to pass farm equipment, motorists should keep standard traffic laws in mind, and remember that it’s illegal to pass on a solid yellow line. Even if passing is allowed, Nuckols advised against it.

“Most of this equipment is not traveling very far, so if you do get behind one, just a little bit of patience can go a long way because they’re likely not going more than a mile or two.”

While many farmers move equipment between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. or midday to avoid peak traffic times, motorists should always expect to see farm equipment where there are farms—especially with a rising demand for locally grown food.

“If you’re willing to wait in line at the grocery store or for a table at your favorite restaurant, please provide that same patience for the farmers growing and raising your food,” Nuckols said.

Visit vafb.com/safety for more information about rural road safety.

Dip,Dip,Hooray! Dips fit for any party

No party is complete without a good dip. From creamy classics to zesty spreads, these crowdpleasing staples are the ultimate snacktime companions, seamlessly blending fruits or vegetables and proteins into every scoop.

Dips offer an endless array of flavor and texture using simple and affordable ingredients. Whether it’s the smooth tang of a sour cream dip, a rich and nutty hummus, a warm spinach artichoke

dip, or a bright and refreshing guacamole, there’s a dip to satisfy every palate. Some, like the popular seven-layer dip, incorporate a variety of ingredients, flavors and textures all in one dish.

Virginia boasts a bounty of locally grown, seasonal produce in the spring that provides dip ingredients, from fragrant herbs, tender spinach and other greens, to zesty onions or sweet strawberries. So next time you visit the local farmers market, pick up some fresh ingredients, and get creative to elevate your dip game.

Chicken Caprese Dip

Hot Chicken

Caprese Dip

INGREDIENTS

2 cups cooked, diced chicken

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

¼ cup fresh chopped basil

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon sea salt

fresh cracked pepper for garnish fresh basil for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Heat oven to 350°.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, cream cheese and one cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined. Mix in the tomatoes, basil, garlic, vinegar and salt.

Spoon the mixture into an 8-by-8 ovensafe baking dish, spreading out evenly. Top with the remaining cheese.

Bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly, approximately 20 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

—Recipe adapted from The Dairy Alliance

Herb Dip

INGREDIENTS

1 cup mayonnaise

½ teaspoon lemon juice

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon grated onion

1 cup sour cream

½ teaspoon each of thyme, marjoram and parsley

1 clove garlic, minced

1/8 teaspoon curry powder

½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

DIRECTIONS

In a bowl, mix all ingredients together. Refrigerate, and serve chilled. Flavor is increased if made the day before a party.

—Recipe adapted from Country Treasures from Virginia Farm Bureau Kitchens

Lemon and Salmon Dip

INGREDIENTS

7-ounce can pink salmon, drained and deboned

¼ cup low-fat sour cream

½ cup finely chopped celery

¼ cup finely chopped green onions

1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

½ teaspoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon lemon juice

salt and pepper to taste

⅛ teaspoon paprika

DIRECTIONS

Using a small bowl, combine all the ingredients, except the paprika, and mix

well. Sprinkle the paprika evenly on top, cover, and refrigerate. Serve chilled with assorted raw vegetables for dipping.

—Recipe adapted from Alabama Cooperative Extension

Berry Fruit Dip

INGREDIENTS

4 tablespoons berry jam of your choice

8 ounces whipped cream cheese

8 ounces vanilla Greek yogurt

¼ cup blueberries

¼ cup blackberries

¼ cup raspberries

¼ cup sliced strawberries

1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

¼ cup powdered sugar

assorted fruit for dipping

DIRECTIONS

Place all ingredients, except fruit, into a food processor or blender. Blend on high for 30-40 seconds until smooth and creamy.

Pour into a serving dish, and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes. Serve with fresh berries.

—Recipe adapted from the Southwest and Southland Dairy Farmers

2022 Census of Agriculture reveals mixed results about Virginia’s largest industry

From potatoes on the Eastern Shore, to apples in the Shenandoah Valley to beef cattle in the southwestern part of the state, Virginia’s agriculture production is one of the most vibrant and diverse in the nation.

That diversity has helped agriculture remain the commonwealth’s largest private industry, bolstering the state with an $82.3 billion annual economic impact and providing more than 381,800 jobs, according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. When combined with forestry, the total economic impact reaches over $105 billion.

According to results from the recently released 2022 Census of Agriculture, Virginia has 38,995 farms spanning 7.3 million acres, with an average farm size of 187 acres. Over 95% of these farms are family-owned, and several commodities produced by Virginia farmers rank in the top 10 nationally—apples, broiler chickens, peanuts and turkeys.

Virginia farmers earned $5.5 billion from the sale of all agricultural products sold in 2022, and over half of that income was generated in the top 10 agricultural counties. Conducted once every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Census of Agriculture analyzes land use and ownership, farm operator characteristics, production practices, income and expenditures. Results were made available earlier this year.

The top 10 Virginia counties based on the value of agricultural production are:

Rockingham

Augusta

Accomack

Shenandoah

Page

$1.2 billion

$448 million

$326 million

$225 million

$205 million Orange

Southampton

Northampton

Pittsylvania

Washington

$142 million

$124 million

$109 million

$100 million

$94 million

38,995 farms on 7.3 million acres

Average farm size = 187 acres

Top farm commodity = poultry

Number of farm producers = 67,798

59.2 is the average age of a Va. farmer

Combined, they total $2.97 billion in the market value of products sold in 2022.

Rockingham, Augusta and Accomack counties are regular leaders in agricultural production, with poultry and dairy farms serving as “big catalysts for those farm receipts,” explained Tony Banks, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation senior assistant director of agriculture, development and innovation.

Poultry is the top farm commodity in Virginia, generating $2.23 billion in 2022, according to the census data.

The census also found that the overall number of Virginia farm producers dropped from 70,594 in the 2017 census to 67,798 in 2022. However, producers of Hispanic, Latino or Spanish origin rose to 1,026 from 845 in 2017. Most of that population is farming in Loudoun and Fauquier counties.

Tia Earman, Loudoun County Farm Bureau president, said she noticed the steady increase of a younger and more diverse farming community overall since the 2017 agriculture census, and the county Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers committee is active.

“The face of our agriculture is changing,” she said. Black farmers number 1,603, down by 90 since 2017. Female producers number 25,237.

New and beginning farmers account for 20,378 of all farmers. They are operating almost 13,000 farms on 1.7 million acres.

The census also found the average age of producers crept up from 58.5 to 59.2 years old. Young producers ages 34 and younger total 5,139 farmers. Farmers ages 25 to 54 make up smaller percentages than older farmers, with most of them in the 55- to 74-year-old age range.

The census identified 7,679 military veterans who are farming.