KENOVA, W.Va. – Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt, Commerce Secretary Ed Gaunch and Tourism Commissioner Chelsea Ruby will be hosting an agritourism roundtable with producers from across West Virginia on February 9, 6:00 p.m. at Heritage Farms in Kenova. The event is part of the WVDA’s existing Homesteading Series that connects producers with industry experts on a variety of topics. …
The Path Forward
With a new administration in Washington, the end of the pandemic in sight and one of the toughest years in recent memory behind us, the question for national and state leaders is how do we heal? West Virginia has clearly shown we can respond to a crisis by leading the way on COVID-19 vaccination and testing, but we still face …
Commissioner Leonhardt: Goals and Promises for 2021
The last year has been one of the roughest in recent memory. Mainly due to the pandemic, we as Americans have experienced loss, hardship and new challenges that haven’t been seen in several decades. As many of us try to leave 2020 behind, we can look towards the hope the new year will bring. As your Commissioner of Agriculture, 2021 …
WVDA Announces the Request for Applications for Specialty Crop Block Grants
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) has announced FY21 Request for Applications for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grants. The WVDA anticipates West Virginia will receive approximately $270,000 from which multiple grants will be awarded. Applications are due January 19, 2021. “Specialty crop funding allows West Virginia agriculture commodities to explore and …
West Virginia Farm Museum to Host Christmas Lights Show
Point Pleasant, W.Va. – The West Virginia State Farm Museum Christmas Light Show will come to life Friday, Dec. 4, and will run every night from 6-9 p.m. through Dec. 13. Due to pandemic, the event will be drive-through only. The display is free and open to the public, but donations are encouraged. “The light show is a safe and …
The Emotional Case for Eating Healthy
As the days get colder and shorter, many Americans will experience what we call “seasonal depression.” Lack of vitamin C, personal interactions and social events are the root for many that experience this illness. It can cause folks to lose interest in activities, feel tired or even gain weight from overeating. Add the anxiety many of our citizens have felt …