The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 3 and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their partnership. This agreement is the first of its kind between the two organizations and aims to expand collaboration on agricultural practices that support environmental benefits, regulatory programs, outreach, training, communication, and education.
EPA Senior Advisor for Agricultural and Rural Affairs Turner Bridgforth stated, “Establishing a strong relationship with our state regulators is a win for all farmers and ranchers. This MOU lays the groundwork to ensure farmers have a seat at the table when it comes to protecting our environment and Powering the Great American Comeback.”
EPA Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey added, “This marks a new chapter for partnership between EPA and the Commonwealth to protect Virginia’s environment and help its agricultural economy thrive. I look forward to strengthening our collaboration under this agreement.”
The agreement will last five years and highlights a joint commitment to sustainable farming practices that support both local food production and environmental protection.
VDACS Commissioner Joseph Guthrie commented, “We are happy to partner with the EPA to develop solutions for environmental protection and to keep Virginia agriculture productive. By entering into this agreement with the EPA, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is reaffirming our commitment to Virginia farmers and agribusinesses by working together to strengthen the Commonwealth’s agricultural community.”
The signing was followed by a roundtable discussion hosted by the Virginia Farm Bureau (VFB) in Richmond, which included EPA, VDACS, and leaders from Virginia’s agriculture and forestry sectors. VFB President Scott Sink said, “Virginia Farm Bureau appreciates EPA seeking farmers’ and foresters’ perspectives when it comes to requirements impacting the No. 1 industry in the commonwealth. It is important for farmers and foresters to have their questions answered, their input considered, and the door opened for future dialogue.”
The MOU calls for EPA and VDACS to produce an annual report detailing achievements under the agreement and outlining plans for the coming year.
EPA’s Office of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (OARA) will continue serving as the main liaison between rural stakeholders and the agency, working with EPA Region 3 on science-based solutions that balance environmental protection with a productive agricultural system.
EPA Region 3 covers Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and seven federally recognized Tribes. The agency is in the process of updating similar agreements with other states in the region.
VDACS, established in 1877, works to promote economic growth in Virginia agriculture, protect consumers, and encourage environmental stewardship. More information about VDACS can be found at https://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/index.shtml.
