“Mrs. Carrier epitomizes the characteristics of the ideal teacher that we all want for our children,” said Bernard Bragen Jr.. Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent “Her passion and enthusiasm for teaching and children is reflective in the performance of her students. We are grateful to have her as a member of our faculty. “

Almost 110 billion eggs produced in the U.S. annually. About 743 million are laid by Virginia hens. This ranks the state at No. 24 in national egg production, according to the Virginia Egg Board’s 2022 Annual Report.

Revised USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is important to farmers and gardeners because the map recommends when and what to plant based on weather conditions/hardiness zones. Virginia a half-zone warmer.

If you're interested in knowing how to start native plants from seed, join Virginia Cooperative Extension on Wednesday, April 17, at 11 a.m. VCE will host long time Master Gardener Pat Lust for a ZOOM talk on the steps necessary for growing your native plant garden from seed.

April is Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month and there is a lot of concern about non-native plant pests and plant diseases. Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages everyone to help reduce the threat that invasive plant pests and diseases pose to Virginia’s agricultural and natural resources.

Join PW Master Gardeners on Satueday, March 30 for a program on starting and sharing plants.

Ruff held seats on key committees in the Virginia General Assembly that influenced policy impacting farmers, including the Agriculture, Appropriations, and General Laws & Technology committees. He also chaired the Virginia Tobacco Region and Revitalization Commission and the Center for Rural Virginia board of trustees.

Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Nutrient Management Program will offer a two-part agriculture nutrient management training school in January--for anyone interested in learning about the development of agricultural nutrient management plans or how to become a certified plan writer.