Despite a new record-high in exports, Virginia farms seem to be shutting down at a concerning rate.
The number of farms operating in Virginia is down significantly over the past five years.
That’s according to new data released Tuesday by the U. S. Dept. of Agriculture as part of the recent Ag Census.
The Commonwealth of Virginia currently has 38,995 farms, which compares to 43,225 farms just five years ago – this represents a loss of 4,230 farming operations statewide.
Looking at farm losses locally, Page County lost 27 farms over the past five years. Shenandoah County lost 106 farms. Augusta County lost 205 farms, and Rockingham County has lost 304 farms over the past five years.
All data provided by the USDA.