Risk Management for Poultry and Rabbit Farming

Friday, August 21, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

Poultry and rabbits are great animals to raise in a small area and with limited resources. Like any business, cuniculture (rabbit) and fowl farming have risks to consider and minimize. We will cover different breeds of rabbits, turkeys, poultry, geese, ducks and guinea fowl, as well as housing, health, feed cost, marketing, predators, record keeping, personal goals, etc. This workshop will have a relaxed atmosphere, and you can bring your questions and related experiences about how you have solved high-risk situations associated with raising rabbits and poultry.

For more information, please contact Tammy Holler at (804) 895-9475 or tholler@vsu.edu.

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Growing Switchgrass for Soil & Income

Thursday, August 20, 2026 • 6:00 PM - 7:20 PM‍ ‍

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting

Switchgrass is noted for heavy growth during late spring and early summer, making excellent

pasture, and can be baled for hay. It is rated excellent for wildlife nesting, brood rearing, and winter

cover. The extensive root systems provide excellent stabilizing cover for soil erosion control.

The stiff straw makes it valuable for field borders and wind barriers. Jared West, of NRCS, will lead

this virtual session, introducing switchgrass as a conservation and income-generating crop.

Participants will explore its role in soil health, erosion control, and biomass markets, while learning

establishment basics and how it fits into the NRCS conservation practice standard and cost

incentives. Take the first step to learn more and register for this workshop!

For more info, contact: Tabitha Bugg at 804-892-2997 | tbugg@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Starting an LLC workshop: A Beginners Guide for Virginia Farmers

Thursday, August 20, 2026 • 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM‍ ‍

300 Gordondale Road Atkins, Virginia, 24311

This workshop provides an overview of the process of forming and managing a Limited

Liability Company (LLC) in Virginia. Designed for aspiring, beginning, or experienced farmers,

this workshop will equip you with the essential knowledge and practical steps to navigate

the legal and administrative requirements of establishing an LLC in the Commonwealth. Tax

benefits and considerations will also be discussed

For more info, contact:

Amanda “Mandy” Fletcher

(804) 892-0108 | afletcher@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Intro to Agroforestry Design Systems—Part 2

Thursday, August 20, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM‍ ‍

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

This is the second part of a 2-part event. The beginner-friendly workshop introduces core agroforestry systems, including alley cropping, forest farming, and riparian buffers. Participants will learn how to assess land, identify opportunities, and begin designing integrated systems aligned with NRCS planning frameworks. It is a condensed, comprehensive introduction to agroforestry systems from concept to implementation.

For more info, contact: Tabitha Bugg 804-892-2997 | tbugg@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Whole Farm Planning

Thursday, August 20, 2026 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM‍ ‍

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

Whole Farm Planning helps beginning farmers maintain or improve profitability while

enhancing their sustainability. With Whole Farm Planning, beginning farmers define long-

and short-term goals to achieve a better quality of life at home and in the community.

LEARN FROM:

• VSU Small Farm Outreach Agents as they review the Whole Farm Planning manual;

• Farm Credit representatives with instruction on how to develop a simple, one-page business plan.

For more info, contact: Derrick Cladd at 804-892-4489 | dcladd@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Farming with AI: Leveraging ChatGPT-5 for Smarter, more Sustainable Agriculture

Tuesday, August 18, 2026 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM‍ ‍

VSU Randolph Farm 4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

This hands-on presentation will guide participants through the fundamentals of how to use ChatGPT-5 and similar AI tools in a practical, approachable way.  Attendees will actively learn how to:   • Craft effective prompts to get meaningful, context-specific answers. • Use ChatGPT-5 to assist with farm planning, grant writing, budgeting and marketing. • Develop personalized “farm GPTs” that can manage records, schedule tasks, and support decision making. • Integrate AI into sustainable farming operations to save time and boost productivity.

For more info, contact: James Gibson 804-720-6826 | jegibson@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Small Farm Orientation

Tuesday, August 18, 2026 • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM‍ ‍

Hybrid Class - Virtual or In Person

9432 North James Madison Highway Rapidan, Virginia, 22733

This two-hour hybrid course is for new farmers with zero to five years of experience operating a farm. Ben Dukes, small farm agent for the VSU Small Farm Outreach Program, and Dr. Nartea, extension specialist for VSU Integrated Marketing Program, will walk attendees through the process of how to develop a productive and profitable farm. Participants will receive a Small Farm Orientation manual. A separate room will be available for live presentation in Spanish. Habrá una sala separada para la presentación en vivo en español.

For more info, contact: Ben Dukes at 804-731-7916 | bdukes@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Backyard Poultry 101

Monday, August 17, 2026 • 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM‍ ‍

Roanoke County Cooperative Extension Office

3738 Brambleton Avenue, Roanoke, Va

In this workshop we will cover raising chickens for profit successfully—either on your farm or for enjoyment in your backyard. We will take you through the step-by-step process of how to raise meat birds and egg layers from hatching through to the end product. The workshop will address the different breeds of chickens, as well as which breeds are best for obtaining the value-added results you want for your individual markets.

For more information, please contact Brent Noell of Virginia State University at 1-804-892-0140 or bnoell@vsu.edu .

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Clinch River Farmers Market

Saturday, August 15, 2026 • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM‍ ‍

Address: 15631 Russell Street St. Paul VA 24283

Come experience a gathering of local growers and producers who sale and exchange whole foods and value-added products grown and created within the mountain region. The Clinch River Farmer's Market operates May through October on Saturdays from 8am - 12pm with Wednesdays during the summer months from 2 - 5pm. Winter Market operates one Saturday per month. Each week, there is live entertainment, kid's projects, recipe swaps, free coffee, market displays, demonstrations, and tips. Please come support our communities and small farmers by purchasing fresh, whole foods that will energize your body and support your well-being. Hometown friendliness, good conversation, and great prices are merely a bonus! Questions? Contact the Clinch River Farmers Market and Town of St. Paul at 276-762-5297.

For more information, please contact Wayne Browning of Virginia State University at 1-804-760-3932 or wbrowning@vsu.edu .

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Agriculture Business Structure Planning Workshop

Thursday, August 13, 2026 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Campbell County VCE Office

163 Kabler Lane, Rustburg, Virginia, 24588

Agriculture and rural businesses will have the opportunity to review different business structures. Planning correctly will protect individuals from personal liability of business debt and reduce some of the financial risk involved in agriculture. Specialists will present multiple options for agriculture businesses to choose from in planning their agricultural business structure.

For more information, please contact Forrest Hobbs at (804) 892-5910 or fhobbs@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Ruminant Webinar Series: Beef Cattle at VSU

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 • 7:00 PM - 8:15 PM

Microsoft Zoom Meeting

Join us for an engaging and informative monthly webinar series dedicated to ruminant production and management. Designed for farmers, extension agents, educators, and industry professionals, this series covers a wide range of topics critical to the success and sustainability of ruminant operations. Each session features expert speakers, practical insights, and opportunities for Q&A. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your practices, this series offers valuable tools and knowledge to support your success.

Quick Tech Note: Please install Microsoft Teams on the device you will be using. Test your microphone and speakers. Open the meeting link a few minutes early.

For more information, please contact Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please call 804-524-3292 / TDD 800-828-1120 during business hours of 8 am and 5 pm to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event. Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments

Estate Planning

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting

This dynamic workshop will reinforce the importance of strategic land management for producers and the

critical role it plays in protecting long-term legacy. Participants will gain insight into common planning

mistakes and learn practical strategies to avoid them. Along with the importance of strategic farm

transitioning. In addition, special emphasis will be placed on the importance of establishing a Power of

Attorney to ensure that financial and healthcare decisions can be handled smoothly if the unexpected

occurs.

For more information, please contact Alan Diggs at (804) 704-5800 or akdiggs@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Herd Health and Forage improvement

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

20712 4th Avenue Ettrick, VA 23803

August is the perfect time to think about improving your pastures and paddocks for next year's animal production and improve weight gains, have less stress on the forages and animals. We will discuss how animal numbers may be increased and how you may be able to feed less hay. We will also discuss the animal needs for good weight gains.

For more information, please contact Tim Sexton at (804) 524-1028 or tsexton@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Estate Planning

Tuesday, August 11, 2026 • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting

This dynamic workshop will reinforce the importance of strategic land management for producers and the

critical role it plays in protecting long-term legacy. Participants will gain insight into common planning

mistakes and learn practical strategies to avoid them. Along with the importance of strategic farm

transitioning. In addition, special emphasis will be placed on the importance of establishing a Power of

Attorney to ensure that financial and healthcare decisions can be handled smoothly if the unexpected

occurs.

For more information, please contact Alan Diggs at (804) 704-5800 or akdiggs@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Pollinators, Flowers and IPM at Randolph Farm

Friday, August 7, 2026 • 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

Come check out the VSU Randolph Farm pollinator plots to see annual flower strips in bloom and learn how bees, butterflies and beneficial insects support healthy farms. You’ll learn about Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques to protect precious pollinator species. Answer trivia questions for a chance to take home prizes.  Enter to win a gift basket valued at $50!

Planned Agenda:

8:30 AM – Registration & Enter Raffle to Win a Gift Basket (valued at $50)

8:45 AM – Introduction: James Gibson, VSU SFOP

9:00 AM – Annual Flowers Plot Visit & Role of IPM: Dr. Zelalem Mersha, VSU ARS

9:30 AM – Native Perennial Pollinators for Small Farms: Mr. Ben Dukes, VSU SFOP

9:45 AM – Pollinator Activity at Randolph Farm: Ms. Nasya Bugg, COA

10:00 AM – Edible Flowers & Herbs High Tunnel: Dr. Theresa Nartea, VSU CE

10:20 AM – Evaluation & Gift Basket Raffle: James Gibson, VSU SFOP

10:30 AM – Event Ends

For more information, please contact James Gibson at (804) 720-6826 or jegibson@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

VSU SFOP and USDA Information Update

Thursday, August 6, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

562 Front Street Lovingston , VA 22949

The VSU Small Farm Outreach Program events and services will be highlighted at a booth as part of the Lovingston Farmers Market in Lovingston. The marketing rules will be available to individuals considering being vendors at this market, Participants will be able to get an idea or different marketing practices while having an opportunity to have questions answered.

For more information, please contact Forrest Hobbs at (804) 892-5310 or fhobbs@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Record keeping on your Computer or Smart Phone

Wednesday, August 5, 2026 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting

Good record keeping is essential for a successful farming operation. Using the tools you have, you can keep thorough records. These records will provide valuable information on which methods work best on your farm. Record keeping can help plan a realistic forecast for the coming year and may also be a requirement for lending institutions. Greg Carter will lead this workshop. He grew up on a small farm, but worked in the corporate world.Farming is a business, good record keeping is essential for a successful farming operation!

Quick Tech Note: Please install Microsoft Teams on the device you will be using. Test your microphone and speakers. Open the meeting link a few minutes early.

For more information, please contact Roland Terrell at (804) 892-4612 or rterrell@vsu.edu.

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Setting Up a Whole Farm Irrigation System

Wednesday, August 5, 2026 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

841 Potts Spring Road Dundas, Virginia, 23938

Being able to water your field crops is essential during the summer months to keep your production going. Walter Thompson, co-owner of Willowland Farm in Dundas, Virginia, will explain how they set up an irrigation system from the pond to each of their fields. They will show how the irrigation pump works and how they can control which fields are irrigated through an underground pipe system and control valves. They will also speak about using crop rotation for better production.

For more information, please contact Marilyn Estes at (804) 481-0485 or mestes@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Working Towards a Healthy Soil

Wednesday, August 5, 2026 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

20712 4th Avenue Ettrick, VA 23806

In this workshop we will discuss what a healthy soil is and ways to improve on the soil health in your garden for crop fields, You will learn about best management practices to assist in developing a heathier soil, and how having a soil that his healthy also helps us have heathy plants with better yields and profits

For more information, please contact Tim Sexton at (804) 524-1028 or tsexton@vsu.edu.

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Risk Management for Poultry and Rabbit Farming

Saturday, August 1, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

100 Dominion Drive Farmville, Virginia, 23901

Poultry and rabbits are great animals to raise in a small area and with limited resources. Like any business, cuniculture (rabbit) and fowl farming have risks to consider and minimize. We will cover different breeds of rabbits, turkeys, poultry, geese, ducks and guinea fowl, as well as housing, health, feed cost, marketing, predators, record keeping, personal goals, etc. This workshop will have a relaxed atmosphere, and you can bring your questions and related experiences about how you have solved high-risk situations associated with raising rabbits and poultry.

For more information, please contact Tammy Holler at (804) 895-9475 or tholler@vsu.edu.

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Intro to Agroforestry Design Systems—Part 1

Friday, July 31, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting

This beginner-friendly workshop introduces core agroforestry systems, including alley cropping, forest farming, and riparian buffers. Participants will learn how to assess land, identify opportunities, and begin designing integrated systems aligned with NRCS planning frameworks. It is a condensed, comprehensive introduction to agroforestry systems from concept to implementation. Part 2 will be in person at Virginia State University’s Randolph Farm.

Quick Tech Note: Please install Microsoft Teams on the device you will be using. Test your microphone and speakers. Open the meeting link a few minutes early.

For more information, please contact Tabitha Bugg at (804) 892-2997 or tbugg@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Shenandoah Valley Young Farmers Coalition

Thursday, July 30, 2026 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Bridgewater Retirement Community

414 North Liberty Street Bridgewater, Virginia, 22812

New meets old at the Shenandoah Valley Young Farmers Coalition summer tour & potluck! This intergenerational event is hosted by the Bridgewater Retirement Community to showcase their new community farm. Gardeners from the retirement community will join young farmers from the region to connect and network, while learning about the creation of this new farm! This event is open to all - though geared to farmers ages 20-40.

For more information, please contact Marian Dalke at (540) 232-6010 or mdalke@vt.edu.

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Web Soil Survey Basics

Thursday, July 30, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

We will be using the USDA online program, Web Soil Survey. WSS provides soil data and information produced by the National Cooperative Soil Survey. The soil survey is a detailed report on the soils. It has maps with soil boundaries, photos, descriptions, and tables of soil properties and features. Bring your own laptop computer if you would like to look at your farms soil types and growing capabilities using the Web Soil Survey program.

For more information, please contact Tammy Holler at (804) 895-9472 or tholler@vsu.edu.

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

From Field to Filing Taxes: Smart Tax Strategies for Farmers

Monday, July 27, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

Farming is more than a way of life—it’s a business with unique tax challenges and opportunities. This class is designed specifically for farmers who want to better understand how to manage, report, and maximize their agricultural income.

We’ll walk through how to accurately file all taxable income from the previous year, including navigating Form 1040 and farm-specific schedules. Tax forms can be complicated, but you don’t have to figure them out alone—we break everything down in a clear, practical way.

Are you operating a farm as a business or part of a partnership? We’ll cover how to properly report income, deductions, gains, and losses so you don’t miss out on valuable benefits. Many farmers underestimate the value of their operations—this class will help you recognize and claim what you’ve earned.

For those involved in agricultural nonprofits or community farming initiatives, we’ll also touch on filing requirements and how to stay compliant while continuing your important work.

Need extra support? We’ll introduce guidance on estate tax considerations for farm succession, correcting previous filings, reducing tax liabilities through abatement or exemptions, and reviewing past returns for accuracy.

Whether you’re new to farming or have years of experience, this class will give you the tools and confidence to handle your taxes more effectively—so you can focus on what matters most: your land, your work, and your future.

For more information, please contact Yowei Peralta at (804) 892-0282 or yperalta@vsu.edu

Virinia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Managing Agricultural Risk: Protecting Your Farm and Future

Friday, July 24, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

UMES Research, Education & Extension Farm

10789 Stewart Neck Road Princess Anne, Maryland, 21853

Risk management is an essential strategy for protecting your farm’s livelihood, ensuring long-term sustainability, and preparing for unexpected challenges that could threaten your productivity and income. This interactive workshop is designed to help agricultural producers understand, assess, and manage risks effectively while building resilience into their operations. Effective risk management is not about eliminating uncertainty—it’s about being prepared. By understanding your risks and taking proactive steps, you can strengthen your operation, protect your income, and build a more resilient future. Key resources will be shared.

For more information, please contact Ben Dukes at (804) 731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Information and Techniques to help Small Farmers In their Farming Operations

Thursday, July 23, 2026 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

VSU Randolph Farm

4415 River Road Petersburg, Virginia, 23803

This in- person workshop, led by VSU aims to support small farmers by introducing them to organizations and programs that offer sustainability resources. Topics include farm operational structure, financial aid opportunities, grant resources, and the mental health impact on the farm workforce. This session will feature VSU-affiliated presenters: Grace Summers, Novita Epps and Barry Harris.

For more information, please contact Grace Summers at (804) 712-0093 or gsummers@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

Managing Agricultural Risk: Protecting Your Farm and Future

Thursday, July 23, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Oceanfront Area Library

700 Virginia Beach Boulevard Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23451

Risk management is an essential strategy for protecting your farm’s livelihood, ensuring long-term sustainability, and preparing for unexpected challenges that could threaten your productivity and income. This interactive workshop is designed to help agricultural producers understand, assess, and manage risks effectively while building resilience into their operations. Effective risk management is not about eliminating uncertainty—it’s about being prepared. By understanding your risks and taking proactive steps, you can strengthen your operation, protect your income, and build a more resilient future. Key resources will be shared

For more information, please contact Ben Dukes at (804) 731-7916 or bdukes@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

VSU SFOP and USDA Information Update

Thursday, July 23, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Buena Vista Farmers Market

Corner of 21st and Magnolia Avenue Nelson, VA 24415

The VSU Small Farm Outreach Program events and services will be highlighted at a booth as part of the Buena Vista Farmers Market in Buena Vista. The marketing rules will be available to individuals considering being vendors at this market. Participants will be able to get an idea of different marketing practices while having an opportunity to have questions answered.

For more information, please contact Forrest Hobbs at (804) 892-5310 or fhobbs@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

AgFTAP Education

Thursday, July 23, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting

Learn how to navigate farm taxes and protect your assets through the AgFTAP education program, supported by USDA-FSA. This workshop introduces valuable courses, resources, and a network of expert support available through the AgFTAP online portal. Gain practical skills to manage and grow a successful, resilient farm business. And, We would love your ideas to make program better for farmers, ranchers and land owners.

Quick Tech Note: Please install Microsoft Teams on the device you will be using. Test your microphone and speakers. Open the meeting link a few minutes early.

For more information, please contact Derrick Cladd at (804) 892-4489 or dcladd@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.

VSU SFOP and USDA Information Update

Wednesday, July 22, 2026 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

McCrum's Parking Lot

South Jefferson Street Lexington, Virginia, 24450

The VSU Small Farm Outreach Program events and services will be highlighted at a booth as part of the Lexington Farmers Market in Lexington. The marketing rules will be available to individuals considering being vendors at this market. Participants will be able to get an idea of different marketing practices while having an opportunity to have questions answered

For more information, please contact Forrest Hobbs at (804) 892-5310 or fhobbs@vsu.edu

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.