DAILY PRESS, NEWPORT NEWS, VA. | ALLISON T. WILLIAMS | Thu, Aug 19, 7:56 AM
Aug. 19–ISLE OF WIGHT — State agriculture officials pledged continued support for Virginia’s farmland preservation efforts and said they are working to get a better grasp on how tightened federal environmental regulations looming on the horizon could affect farmers.
“So much about the federal mandates are still in flux right now,” said David Johnson, director of the state Department of Conservation and Recreation, speaking to more than 60 Hampton Roads farmers and others in agriculture-related industries in Isle of Wight County Wednesday. The town-hall meeting sponsored by the Virginia Agribusiness Council is one of six being held around the state to give local growers a chance to address concerns with state officials.
