Charleston W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) is working with local producers and farmers impacted by COVID-19 mitigation efforts by facilitating communication between producers and potential buyers. Business development and marketing staff have received calls from multiple producers are who experiencing a surplus of food or other burdens due to the pandemic. To assist these affected businesses, …
Agriculture is Critical Infrastructure in a Crisis
Currently, the COVID-19 pandemic is putting a lot of strain on our country, as well as shifting society as we know it. Many of us are adjusting to “social distancing,” businesses are struggling to adapt and our daily lives are changing in ways we have not seen in a hundred years. To make it through this crisis, vital services become …
WVDA Issues Recommendations for Farmers Markets, Encourages Support for Local Foods
Charleston W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) has released guidelines for farmers’ markets and on-farm markets during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendations are to be used to mitigate the spread of the virus while keeping crucial agriculture-based businesses operating. “We have received many inquiries from markets regarding how they should operate during this trying time. We are …
Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt Releases Statement Regarding COVID-19
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt released the following statement regarding the COVID-19 pandemic: “The West Virginia Department of Agriculture is taking the necessary precautions to reduce risk of infection to all employees. Employees who are able conduct their duties at home, have been instructed as such. Those who are still required to come to work …
WVDA Offers Reimbursement for Good Agricultural Practices and Good Handling Practices Audits
Charleston W.Va. — The WV Department of Agriculture (WVDA) is now offering full reimbursement to producers who have successfully completed the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Handling Practices (GHP) audits. GAP/GHP audits are voluntary efforts that verify fruits and vegetables are being produced, packed, handled and stored as safely as possible to minimize risks of microbial food safety hazards. …
WVDA Laboratories Vital to WV Food System
There are three basic necessities for life; shelter, water and food. Each is vital to survival, but food is at the forefront of our daily lives. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Lunch plans give way to debates between coworkers. Dinner is a time for families to bond. Regardless of your pallet, food influences our mood, the …