About VALOR, Communication, Creative Problem Solving, Education and Awareness, Inaugural

A Candle Problem

What we face in Agriculture might be described as “A Candle Problem”, a seemingly simple conundrum posed to many folks to analyze their problem-solving abilities. However, it may not be that simple a problem. An interesting take on problem solving is presented in the video by Mr. Dan Pink. Think about problem solving as it… Continue reading A Candle Problem

Education and Awareness, Inaugural, Knowledge of a Changing Industry, Legislation and Regulations, Seminars, Uncategorized

Coal Country

A trip to Southwest Virginia would have been lacking for VALOR fellows had we not learned about the coal industry in Virginia; and we did just that in Seminar III. VALOR is considered “a premier leadership program for adults in agriculture,” and it’s important to remember when developing well-informed leaders they must gain an appreciation… Continue reading Coal Country

About VALOR, Education and Awareness, Environment and Sustainability, Inaugural, Knowledge of a Changing Industry, Water Quality

It’s all about the Soil & Water

This iconic photo from the Dust Bowl era has long represented the struggles of Americans during the Depression/Dust Bowl in America during the 1930’s. The following video shows some stark images resulting from the intense use of the land to meet the demand for food. Hopefully we have learned the lessons of the Thirties and… Continue reading It’s all about the Soil & Water

Environment and Sustainability, Global Agriculture, Inaugural, Knowledge of a Changing Industry, Seminars, Uncategorized

Dietrich Orchards – a family tradition

The VALOR fellows took it on the road for Seminar Seven traveling to Indiana, Illinois and Michigan for an exciting trip of new experiences. One of the best parts of VALOR is touring new types of agricultural operations. Some may be similar to what we see in our home area, but most are very different… Continue reading Dietrich Orchards – a family tradition

About VALOR, Education and Awareness, Inaugural, Seminars, Water Quality

Investing with a long-term view.

Tomorrow we leave on our US study trip, which officially means we’re past the halfway point with VALOR.  I’ve thought a lot about how fast this program is passing.  Seminar VI, like all of the seminars thus far, was fantastic.  For me, one of the most meaningful experiences was the weekend on the bay with… Continue reading Investing with a long-term view.

Environment and Sustainability, Inaugural, Knowledge of a Changing Industry, Legislation and Regulations, Uncategorized, Water Quality

A little technical assistance please …

  VALOR Fellows had a complete experience during Seminar VI: Bay/Northern Neck - Agriculture, Technology and the Environment. It was an exciting time bringing together firsthand the components of one of the most talked-about efforts in decades, allowing a vibrant agricultural industry and work in partnership to clean up the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay… Continue reading A little technical assistance please …

About VALOR, Education and Awareness, Environment and Sustainability, Global Agriculture, Inaugural, Political Advocacy

VALOR in Virginia’s Northern Neck… Learning our Responsibility

Many of you who follow this BLOG know already that VALOR stands for Virginia Agriculture Leaders Obtaining Results and what an amazing endeavor for those of us fortunate enough to be participants in the inaugural class. As we continue on our journey in learning about agriculture in not only our state but in our community,… Continue reading VALOR in Virginia’s Northern Neck… Learning our Responsibility

Inaugural

Reblogged: Shenandoah County man wins national Farm Bureau honor

Dana Allen Fisher of Shenandoah County was named the winner of this year’s American Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers and Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture Award. He was recognized Jan. 14 at the AFBF Annual Convention in Nashville, Tenn. “We couldn’t be more proud of Dana and all of our Young Farmers Program participants. It’s great… Continue reading Reblogged: Shenandoah County man wins national Farm Bureau honor