Mary Winters Blanchard

The meeting included an update on the Augusta Ag Appreciation Gala, noting strong community support with over 269 confirmed attendees, and confirmed that surplus funds will be donated to youth ag programs. The board discussed the USDA Non-Insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP program) and agreed to invite the FSA county director to the next meeting for further details. For 2023 program ideas, the board agreed to support hosting a technology field day in mid-September, potentially covering topics like technology adoption by farmers (GPS, variable rate application, drones) and research into recycling farm plastics, possibly incorporating the NAP program discussion into this event.

The meeting included discussions and reviews of several key topics. A review of the USDA Non-Insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) and Pasture Range and Forage Insurance Educational Program was provided. There was discussion regarding increased interest in the NAP program for 2025. The board discussed the 2025-2045 County Comprehensive Plan, focusing on the Agriculture and Natural Resources sections, and reviewed potential impacts of solar development companies on agricultural land in Augusta County. Additionally, the board reviewed a listing of farms in the Hazard Mitigation Plan and discussed updating the list with County Emergency Management.

The board discussed budget actions, including support for the Virginia Cattlemen's Association and Augusta Extension. They reviewed shared edits on the Comprehensive Plan update and decided to invite county planners to a future meeting. An upcoming seminar on land conservation easements and the Market Animal Show Fundraiser were mentioned, with a decision to set the support for the Market Animal Show at $3,000, including the David Fiske Recordbook Award. The FY2026 budget request was discussed, including potential assistance for the Augusta County Fair to purchase a new weather station. The possibility of partnering with commodity groups and associations to provide educational programs for farmers was also discussed. The board agreed to sponsor the Land Conservation Seminar with $150 for refreshments.

The meeting included introductions of board members and a review of the board's origin, tasks, and purpose, including analyzing agricultural issues for potential recommendations to the Board of Supervisors. There was discussion regarding the USDA Non-insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) Educational program and the potential rescheduling of the program in the fall in partnership with the Farm Service Agency and Farm Credit Knowledge Center. The board affirmed support for the Virginia Cattlemen's Association's Legislative Steak Fry in 2025. The board also reviewed requests for funding support from the Augusta County 4-H Senior Stockman's Team and Fort Defiance FFA teams, approving donations for both.

The meeting included a presentation on the Non-Insured Crop Protection Program by the USDA, which provides financial assistance to producers undergoing weather-related crop losses for crops without crop insurance. There was an update on the proposed ag technology field day, focusing on demonstrating the use of drones for cover crop application. The board discussed potential sponsors for livestock-related presentations but decided to focus on crop production for this event. The board also discussed filling the vacancy for the Middle River district position and the possibility of new members joining the board.