In March, our trip to the Shenandoah Valley, the most agriculturally productive region of Virginia, provided our cohort unique opportunities to see a variety of agricultural enterprises in action. When I think of the Valley, I usually think of dairy and poultry operations, but we also learned about fertilizer, logistics, energy, forestry and wood products, CEA, maple, and trout!
Since so much of the local economy relies on agriculture, I thought Jeff Slaven’s comments were poignant, as a member of the Board of Supervisors of Augusta County. He expressed his opinion that high quality representatives who have knowledge of and investment (or debt) in agriculture need to have a voice in local government to protect the supply and support system for the industry. Diminishing acres in ag production are a threat to the region and agriculture is the “biggest giver we have.” I think this is a very important concern for the agriculture industry statewide and nationally. Leaders in the industry need to step up and participate in local, regional, state, and national government so agriculture’s voice will be heard and protected for years to come, to benefit the food security of our nation and the livelihoods of our farmers.
Here are some additional quotes from the Valley seminar that relate to leadership:
- “Promise what you can deliver; deliver what you promise.” Neil Houff, when speaking of their Houff Corporation’s principles. I was impressed with the business sophistication of Houff Corporation and the many enterprises with ties to the Houffs. Many of the values they demonstrated and discussed on our tour relate to their commitment to their employees, the community, and the industry. Their nimble decision-making strategy makes sense for their business and allows them to take advantage of opportunities as they arise.
- “Beware of a solution without a plan.” Jason Carter, Shenandoah Valley Electric Co-op, when speaking of solar and broadband initiatives. Jason’s insight on the electric industry and cooperative principles was very informative. With all the newer users of electricity, including bitcoin mining, data centers, grow houses, electric car charging, and solar panels, local electric cooperatives and other electric providers play a pivotal role in the adoption of technology and the economy in rural areas. Planning for the adoption of these new technologies, especially in rural areas, is critical!
- “Don’t quit too soon; let the new thing run its course!” Charlie Leech, Ingleside Dairy & Trout Farm, related to trying new enterprises and technology. I’ve always admired the Leech’s ability to try new things and be early adopters of technology. While many farmers are content to do things “the way they’ve always done,” the Leech family has stepped out to try new things (such as building a trout farm) and adopt new technology (like transitioning to robotic milkers before they were cool). Their calculated tenacity and foresight has allowed the family to successfully transition to the next generation and stay on the forefront of the industry. Many may not have the patience to work through the hard things to get to the other side, but their hard work and vision are qualities to emulate.
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