News & Resources

As Smokey Bear has told Americans since 1947, “Only YOU can prevent forest fires.” Turns out, he’s right because fires are often preventable.

Gov. Terry McAuliffe announced July 18 that a new comprehensive study shows Virginia’s agriculture and forestry industries contribute $91 billion annually to the commonwealth’s economy. That represents a 30 percent increase over results of a 2013 study that found a $70 billion annual economic impact.

The first 23 families whose land qualified for Virginia’s Century Forest designation were honored Nov. 21. The designation recognizes families who have owned working forestlands for more than 100 years.

The Virginia Department of Forestry is spearheading an effort to restore what was once the most common tree in the uplands of Southeast Virginia, the longleaf pine.

Conservation, forestry and wildlife control have all taken huge hits in Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s reductions to the state budget.

Virginia farmers and forest landowners can apply for assistance to protect the health and productivity of their land under the federal Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

Jennifer Gagnon, Virginia Forest Landowner Education program coordinator, said fresh-cut Christmas trees can be recycled or repurposed into natural products, wildlife habitat or feeding areas to attract wildlife.

Farm and forestry exports from Virginia in 2015 were valued at $3.19 billion, 4.7 percent less than in 2014.

Gov. Terry McAuliffe announced Aug. 2 that Virginia will invest $850,000 over the biennial budget to expand its international trade initiatives promoting Virginia’s agriculture and forestry products.

Virginia has launched the nation’s first Century Forest Program designed to honor and recognize families who have owned working forestlands for more than 100 years.