Our Mission
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) serves as the state's primary agency responsible for promoting and regulating the agricultural industry. Established in 1886, the department works tirelessly to support farmers, protect consumers, and ensure the sustainable development of West Virginia's agricultural resources.
The WVDA is committed to enhancing the quality of life for West Virginians by promoting agricultural development, protecting consumers and the environment, and ensuring the safety of the state's food supply. Through education, regulation, and marketing initiatives, the department strives to strengthen the agricultural sector's contribution to the state's economy while preserving West Virginia's rural heritage.
History & Overview
Founded in 1886, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture has served the state for over 130 years. Initially established to address issues related to crop diseases and livestock health, the department has evolved to encompass a wide range of agricultural concerns. Over the decades, the WVDA has adapted to changing technologies, markets, and social needs while maintaining its core commitment to serving farmers and consumers.
The department operates as a cabinet-level state agency headed by the Commissioner of Agriculture, an elected position. With approximately 400 employees and facilities across the state, the WVDA provides comprehensive services to West Virginia's agricultural industry.
Divisions and Services
The WVDA operates through several specialized divisions that address various aspects of agricultural oversight and support:
Agricultural Services
This division provides direct assistance to farmers through technical support, cost-share programs, and disaster relief initiatives. Services include soil testing, pest management advice, and farm transition planning to help producers maintain profitability and sustainability.
Animal Health
Responsible for disease control, veterinary services, and livestock regulation. This division helps maintain the health of West Virginia's animal populations and prevents the spread of animal diseases through surveillance, testing, and enforcement of health regulations.
Consumer & Food Safety
Ensures that food products sold in West Virginia meet safety standards through regular inspections and compliance monitoring. This division also addresses foodborne illness prevention and consumer education to protect public health.
Plant Industries
Focuses on protecting crops from pests and diseases, regulating the sale and application of pesticides, and managing invasive species that threaten West Virginia's forests and farmlands through monitoring and intervention programs.
Regulatory & Environmental Affairs
Oversees compliance with agricultural regulations, manages environmental concerns related to farming practices, and administers conservation programs to protect natural resources while supporting agricultural productivity.
Agricultural Marketing
Promotes West Virginia agricultural products through marketing initiatives, farmers market support, the WV Grown branding program, and agricultural tourism development to help farmers reach new markets and increase profitability.
Key Programs
West Virginia Grown
The WV Grown program helps consumers identify products grown, raised, or made in West Virginia. This branding initiative supports local producers by creating market recognition for mountain state agricultural products through labeling, promotions, and consumer education campaigns.
Farmers Market Nutrition Program
Connects WIC and Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program participants with fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey from farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture programs, supporting both nutritional access for eligible participants and income for local farmers.
Agricultural Land Preservation
Works to preserve prime agricultural land for future generations through purchase of development rights, conservation easements, and other preservation strategies that help maintain agricultural production capacity and protect rural landscapes from development pressure.
West Virginia Farmers Market Association
Supports the state's network of farmers markets through training, promotional materials, and coordination of marketing efforts to increase the visibility and viability of local food systems, connecting consumers directly with producers.
Agricultural Impact in West Virginia
Agriculture remains a vital component of West Virginia's economy and cultural identity. The state's diverse topography and climate support a wide variety of agricultural products, including:
- Broilers, cattle, and calves (top agricultural products by value)
- Apples, peaches, and other fruits
- Vegetables, such as sweet corn, tomatoes, and peppers
- Milk and dairy products
- Eggs and poultry
- Hay and feed grains
- Christmas trees, one of West Virginia's specialties
- Maple syrup and honey
- Specialty forest products
- Wine, grapes, and other specialty crops
Services for Farmers
The WVDA provides numerous services designed to help farmers navigate the challenges of modern agriculture:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Technical Assistance | Expert guidance on production methods, pest management, and crop selection |
| Financial Programs | Assistance with grants, loans, and cost-share programs for agricultural improvements |
| Marketing Support | Promotion of West Virginia products through branded marketing initiatives |
| Regulatory Compliance | Help understanding and meeting state and federal agricultural regulations |
| Emergency Response | Coordination of resources during natural disasters or disease outbreaks |
Consumer Protection Services
The WVDA works to ensure consumers have access to safe, accurately labeled, and honestly marketed agricultural products:
- Routine inspection of food processing facilities and retail establishments
- Testing of food products for contamination or adulteration
- Verification of weight and measure accuracy for commercial scales and meters
- Investigation of consumer complaints related to agricultural products
- Educational programs on food safety and nutrition
- Monitoring of pesticide residues on food products
Recent Initiatives
The WVDA continues to develop new programs to address emerging challenges and opportunities in West Virginia agriculture:
Hemp Industry Development
Following changes in state and federal law, the WVDA has developed programs to support the emerging hemp industry, providing guidance on cultivation, processing, and marketing of hemp products for fiber, food, and CBD markets.
Farm-to-School Programs
Connecting local farmers with schools to provide fresh, locally grown foods for student meals while creating new markets for producers and teaching children about nutrition and agriculture through educational initiatives.
Value-Added Agriculture
Supporting farmers in processing their raw agricultural products into higher-value items, such as turning milk into cheese or apples into cider, to increase profitability and market opportunities through technical and marketing assistance.
Youth in Agriculture
Developing programs to engage young people in farming through educational initiatives, FFA support, and resources for beginning farmers to help ensure the future of agriculture in West Virginia by cultivating the next generation of producers.
Educational Resources
The WVDA offers numerous educational resources for farmers, consumers, teachers, and students:
- Publications on various agricultural topics
- Workshops and training sessions on farming practices, food safety, and business management
- Presentation materials for classroom use at all education levels
- Information booths at agricultural fairs and community events throughout the state
- Online resources through the department website
- Field days and demonstration farms showcasing best practices
Leadership
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture is led by the Commissioner of Agriculture, an elected official who serves as the department's chief executive officer. The Commissioner works with division directors and support staff to implement the department's mission and serve the agricultural community effectively. The department's leadership team represents diverse areas of expertise in agriculture, business, and public service.
Contact Information
Address:
West Virginia Department of Agriculture
1900 Kanawha Boulevard East
Charleston, WV 25305
Phone: (304) 558-2200
Email: info@wvagriculture.org
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Website: www.wvagriculture.org
Conclusion
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture remains dedicated to supporting the state's agricultural heritage while embracing innovation to meet contemporary challenges. Through its various programs and services, the WVDA helps ensure that agriculture continues to thrive as a vital part of West Virginia's economy, culture, and future. By connecting producers with resources, protecting consumers, and promoting locally grown products, the department strengthens the entire agricultural ecosystem from farm to table, preserving theMountain State's rural character while building a sustainable agricultural future.
