~ Press release provided by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation
RICHMOND — Over 100 farm leaders shared their perspectives on seven key agriculture issues in one busy morning at Virginia’s General Assembly on Feb. 3.
As part of Virginia Farm Bureau Federation’s annual Legislative Day, farmers met with lawmakers and aides to urge action on legislation favorable to agriculture and forestry. Advocates expressed support or concern for bills regarding local zoning authority for utility-scale solar facility siting, farm labor, the large-animal veterinarian shortage and the retail labeling of invasive plant species.
A Feb. 2 dinner featured remarks from Sen. Dave Marsden, D-Burke, chair of the Senate Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources Committee. He was lauded for sponsoring many of Farm Bureau’s budget amendments in the past.
Marsden acknowledged that change is felt more acutely in rural Virginia compared to urban areas.
“You’re now dealing with issues foisted upon you by people who may not understand what you’re going through,” he said to the farm advocates. That’s why legislative advocacy is worthwhile, Marsden added.
“We need to understand what you go through to provide us with the sustenance we need to survive in Virginia,” he said.
Over 2,300 bills were introduced in this abbreviated General Assembly session. Upward of 600 have failed to advance, while 300-plus passed the House and Senate.
Farm Bureau opposes HB 2438, which narrowly passed the House 48-46. The bill raises concern that all Virginia localities may be required to adopt statewide standards for solar facilities on land zoned for agriculture. Over 600 Farm Bureau members responded in less than 24 hours to an “Action Alert” from the organization, asking them to contact their legislators about the bill.
Meanwhile, advocates voiced support for related bills that aim to decrease the amount of open space consumed by solar facilities, requesting solar panels be placed on previously developed sites, including parking lots, buildings and brownfields.
Legislative Day first-timer Stacy Richardson of the King and Queen County Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee discussed energy issues with lawmakers who represent the Upper Tidewater region.
“Sources of clean energy are needed, but also I care about the rights of landowners and local government,” she said to lawmakers. “I don’t think we should saturate our state with solar panels; however, there’s a place for them, and we need to find that balance!”
Farmers from southeastern Virginia met with Sen. Emily M. Jordan, R-Smithfield, to talk about energy issues and funding for agricultural best management practices. She said personal interactions have a lasting impact on lawmakers.
“These are moments you show people what comes from the ground—the end result,” Jordan said. “Creating these relationships is so important.”
A joint resolution was presented on the House floor to honor Wayne F. Pryor of Goochland County, who recently retired after 18 years as VFBF president, for his extensive service and contributions to Virginia’s agricultural community. He was recognized in the gallery with his wife, Pattie.
Additionally, Farm Bureau members shared snack bags of Virginia-grown products with legislators.
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