The Farm Vitality Planning Grant addresses long-term business needs such as land acquisition, farm succession, and labor or financial management. It allows producers to invest in planning tools that help improve their operations over time.
Altogether, these grants represent about one-third of the $2.8 million AFT awarded across the U.S. and showcase a commitment to Virginia’s agricultural communities. AFT received applications from nearly 150 producers statewide.
One recipient, Nita Mensia of Winfield Farms, expressed her excitement - “I am so grateful for the confidence placed in our farm. You cannot imagine how much of an impact this is going to have. With this investment, I can begin farming full time, finish up site work and fully engage in the Farm to School Program which is really taking off faster than I had expected. This is such a blessing.”
The awards reflect a growing focus on sustainability, soil conservation, and farm resiliency throughout the region.