MT. CRAWFORD VA: (Rocktown Now) – The Virginia Poultry Federation (VPF) marked a century of poultry production in the Shenandoah Valley with a celebratory festival on Saturday, drawing hundreds of local families and industry leaders. Among the attendees was Leslee Oden, CEO of the National Turkey Federation, who joined in honoring the region’s rich agricultural legacy.

The celebration commemorated the founding of the original poultry federation on August 19, 1925, when 187 agricultural leaders and poultry producers from across Virginia gathered for a poultry field day at Virginia Polytechnic Institute in Blacksburg. That event laid the foundation for what is now the VPF, a statewide trade association representing all facets of the poultry community—from farmers and egg producers to businesses operating processing plants, feed mills, hatcheries, and more.

VPF President Hobey Bauhan reflected on the milestone, stating, “As we celebrate this milestone, each member of our poultry community can take pride in feeding the world using science and technology developed over the past century.” Bauhan highlighted the dramatic improvements in feed conversion rates for broiler chickens, which have dropped from five to less than two, thanks to scientific advancements. He noted that similar progress has been made in turkey production, contributing to greater environmental sustainability and the ability to provide healthy protein to a growing global population.

During the festival, Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matt Lohr will present
a proclamation from Governor Glenn Youngkin regarding the VPF’s anniversary.
Additionally, Virginia Delegate Chris Runion will present a commending resolution
passed by the General Assembly earlier this year.

During the event, Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matt Lohr presented a proclamation from Governor Glenn Youngkin recognizing the federation’s 100th anniversary. Delegate Chris Runion also delivered a commending resolution passed earlier this year by the Virginia General Assembly.

The festival, which was free and open to the public, featured live music by Jack and Davis Reid, games for children, fair-style food vendors, and educational exhibits celebrating the poultry industry’s history and innovations.

Festival planned to celebrate the local poultry industry – Rocktown Now

A great weekend to be outside! – Rocktown Now