New State Study Reveals Importance of Agriculture to Virginia’s Economy

(Warrenton, VA – September 30, 2008) The Buy Fresh Buy Local Campaign sponsored by the Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) is receiving positive reviews from local farmers and vendors as playing a helpful role in creating more business opportunities for local farmers and food providers.

Due to the efforts of this campaign two new Farmers’ Markets were established this year: Tri-County Farmers’ Market in Culpeper and Forest Lakes in the Charlottesville area. As part of this comprehensive effort, PEC mailed out more than 230,000 Buy Fresh Buy Local Guides in a 15 county area to all households to educate local consumers on participating farms, vendors and restaurants. A dedicated web site provides information to consumers and interested parties. The web site is: www.buylocalvirginia.org.

According to Melissa Wiley, Project Manager for the PEC, “In general farmers’ market managers across the board are saying that attendance is up. In fact, the Leesburg market manager said that the weekend after the Loudoun Buy Fresh Buy Local Guide came out their market attendance increased noticeably. We now have a communications network of over 300 farms and businesses that enables us to inform them about new opportunities with wholesalers etc.”

In response to whether the Buy Fresh Buy Local Guides and web site have made a difference, vendors have provided positive feedback:
From Summer Creek Farm in Culpeper: "I believe it has helped a great deal.  Our business has picked up and has gotten new customers with the addition of Beef retail cuts since your publication."

From Clover Hill Farm in Rixeyville: "I had several customers mention finding me in the guide.  I sell at Culpeper Farmer's market and definitely believe that there was an increase in the market's customer base due to this publication.  Thank you!"

A study released by Virginia Governor Timothy Kaine on Wednesday, September 24, 2008 demonstrates the importance of agriculture to the economy of the Commonwealth. The study revealed that Virginia agriculture and forestry contribute about $79 billion annually to Virginia’s economy.

Robert Lazaro
Director of Communications
571.225.0198