Charleston W.Va. — Following the cancellation of the 2020 State Fair of West Virginia, Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt released the following statement: “It is disappointing there will be no State Fair of West Virginia this year, but we understand the circumstances that led to decision the Fair Board made. The fair brings an economic boost to the region, is …
Sale of Japanese Barberry Outlawed July 1
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The sale or distribution of Japanese barberry, Berberis thunbergii DC, will be illegal in West Virginia starting July 1, 2020. During the 2018 regular legislative session, Japanese barberry was added to the West Virginia “noxious weeds” list as part of an effort to control the invasive plant. An amendment allowed a phase-in period for existing stock to …
WVDA Mandates Imported Commercial Swine Enter Processing Channels Upon Entry
Charleston W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) is mandating all imported commercial swine arriving in West Virginia related to COVID-19 be processed upon entry into the state. Currently, the WVDA is waiving Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) for imported swine if they are immediately processed and do no re-enter commerce. “When fellow citizens need our help, West …
Agritourism
Division MenuREAD THE AGRITOURISM GUIDEWest Virginia agriculture is playing an expanding role in combining on-farm experiences with visitor interactions leading to longer stays in the state and providing agriculture operations additional revenue opportunities. The state’s efforts are two-fold-train and assist operators with the tools needed to successfully launch and deliver a quality visitor experience and promote the addition of agritourism …
WV Commissioner of Ag Calls For Passage of New Markets for State Inspected Meat and Poultry Act
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt is calling for the passage of the New Markets for State Inspected Meat and Poultry Act to combat local meat shortages. Passage of such legislation would allow for meats processed in state inspected facilities to cross state lines. Commissioner Leonhardt sent a letter to West Virginia’s congressional delegation, as well …
Produce Safety Rule and Key Requirements
Division MenuFDA FSMA Final Rule on Produce Safety6 Key Requirements of the Produce Safety Rule The Produce Safety Rule is divided into key requirements that are intended to prevent contamination of produce during production, harvesting, and after harvesting. These requirements include: Worker Health, Hygiene, and Training Agricultural Water for Pre and Postharvest Uses Biological Soil Amendments Domesticated and Wild Animals …