October 31, 2017

Beef cattle is US southwest Virginia's biggest value sector

The agricultural economy of southwest Virginia, US, finds its biggest value sector in beef cattle production, based on a report by the Virginia Tech office of economic development, swvatoday.com reported.

According to the report commissioned by the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority, the region saw in 2012, US$53.1 million in beef cattle sales from the 2,140 cattle farms there.

Other sectors, which make up southwest Virginia's income, are tobacco (US$1.9 million), corn (US$1.38 million) and vegetables (US$860,000).

To stimulate the local agriculture economy, the Economic Development Authority has developed relevant plans and measures, including expanding meat processing opportunities. One plan involves encouraging cattle farmers to produce finished grass-fed cattle which could be processed at a local facility if one or more of such is established.

The report also examined the use of reclaimed mine land for agriculture or food and beverage manufacturing purposes. Aquaculture, agritourism and craft beverages are other areas highlighted for potential growth.

Currently, there are 4,240 farms in southwest Virginia, with a majority being 180 acres in size or less, the report states. 4,000 people are employed at those locations, a number which holds steady for five years. 

- swvatoday.com