The Extension Horticulture Program at Virginia State University (VSU) transitioning a 10-acre field plot on VSU’s Randolph Farm to an organic field, which opens possibilities for future applied research projects in organic production and new opportunities for Virginia growers to learn about organic production.
“Organic agriculture is the fastest growing sector in U.S. agriculture,” says Dr. Gu, who previously conducted organic research through Extension in Missouri and North Carolina. “Organic food sales in the United States broke $60 billion in 2022 and are projected to reach $114.15 billion by 2032. Organic production is highly suitable for small farms, and often yields higher profits than conventional produce.” However, Virginia ranks only 23rd among U.S. states for organic production, pointing to an opportunity to increase organic production to meet growing market demand.
Still, organic producers in Virginia face challenges. Producing organic crops is labor-intensive, and growers must contend with climate challenges, soil health and potential pests. On top of the challenges of growing organic food, managing an organic operation involves more paperwork, stricter regulations and maintaining certification by adhering to organic practices and scheduling annual inspections.
The Virginia Cooperative Extension Small Farm Outreach Program (SFOP) at Virginia State University (VSU) hosted the annual Small Farm Outreach Conference in Norfolk, Virginia, on Thursday, October 16, and Friday, October 17, 2025. This year, VSU’s SFOP, which provides year-round support, outreach and learning opportunities for small and innovative farmers for production management, financial and risk management, marketing, USDA assistance programs and more, partnered with the Minority Landowners Magazine in honor of their 20th anniversary. Together, they hosted guest speakers and provided educational tours and breakout sessions for farmers, ranchers, and rural and urban landowners, for two days of networking, celebration and education designed to help grow their farming enterprises.
