Issue Position: Expand opportunities for agritourism and other agricultural education and outreach initiatives

Issue Position

The average American consumer is now three generations removed from the farm. Unlike those who came before us, most consumers now have very little connection to the farms and the farmers that produce our food supply. As a State Senator, I will support initiatives that teach consumers about where food comes from and I will champion programs that allow non-farmers to develop a stronger connection to West Virginia's farmers. Agritourism is one of the fastest growing sources of farm revenue in the United States. I will work with the West Virginia Division of Tourism and the Department of Commerce to make sure that West Virginia does not miss out on those agritourism dollars. I will work with West Virginia's growing equine industry to make sure that animal health regulations and animal transport rules do not inhibit recreational and business opportunities for equine enthusiasts. I will also work closely with West Virginia's fairs and festivals to make certain that animal agriculture can continue to be an important part of these important celebrations throughout our state each year.

Young people are the future of agriculture in West Virginia, and as a State Senator, I will support agricultural education in every way possible. I will be an advocate for FFA and 4-H all across West Virginia. These programs not only prepare West Virginia's young people for successful careers in agriculture, but they teach students leadership skills that will benefit them in all facets of life, no matter what careers they choose. I will work hard every day to make sure that West Virginia continues to support our pipeline for training young people to lead as FFA and 4-H members.

Source