Eastern Shore Ag Conference

The 34th Annual Eastern Shore Agricultural Conference and Trade Show took place on January 29 and 30, 2025, at the Exmore Moose Lodge in Belle Haven, Virginia. Hosted by the Eastern Virginia Agricultural Producers Association, this premier event brought together agricultural professionals for two days of education, networking, and exposure to the latest advancements in agriculture.

Event Highlights

Day 1 – January 29, 2025

• General Session: The conference commenced with updates from industry leaders, including Dr. Mark Reiter from the Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center and representatives from the USDA. A keynote presentation addressed the rising cost of electricity and its impact on agriculture, delivered by Chris Cosby of Old Dominion Electric Cooperative and Butch Williamson of A&N Electric Cooperative. Robert Harper from Virginia Farm Bureau provided a market outlook, and the session concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions to the agricultural community.

• Soybean Session: Experts discussed strategies to enhance soybean yields, pest management, and pesticide safety. Dr. Carrie Ortel, Virginia Tech's Soybean Specialist, along with Dr. Joseph Oakes and Dr. Mark Reiter, emphasized key agronomic decisions to support resilient and high-yielding soybean crops.

• Agronomy Session: Topics included grain quality, aflatoxins in corn, and herbicide resistance. Speakers provided insights into maintaining grain quality and managing challenges associated with mycotoxins and resistant weed species.

Day 2 – January 30, 2025

• Potato/Vegetable Session: The session offered insights into market trends, pest and disease management, and the application of drone technology in agriculture. Brett Richardson from Farm Bureau provided a market outlook, followed by updates from Potatoes USA and discussions on insect control in potatoes by experts from Virginia Tech.

• Economic Sustainability Session: Topics included cost-share programs, enterprise budgeting, crop insurance, and water-use regulations. Representatives from Virginia Tech, USDA, NRCS, and local agricultural organizations presented valuable insights and practical solutions for farming operations.

Additional Features

Participants had the opportunity to obtain pesticide license recertification credits for Virginia and Maryland at the Virginia Cooperative Extension booth. The event also featured a vendor showroom with booths, providing attendees with access to the latest agricultural products and services.

Networking and Community Engagement

Beyond the educational sessions, the conference fostered networking among peers and industry leaders. Attendees enjoyed meals catered by the Exmore Diner and participated in the annual oyster roast, a cherished tradition that celebrates the community spirit of the Eastern Shore.

Looking Ahead

The Eastern Shore Agricultural Conference and Trade Show continues to be a cornerstone event for the agricultural community, offering valuable opportunities for learning, collaboration, and growth. Stay tuned for announcements regarding future conferences and how you can participate in advancing agriculture on the Eastern Shore.

For more information or inquiries, please contact:

• Accomack County Extension Agent: Theresa Pittman (tpittman@vt.edu, 757-787-1361)

• Northampton County Extension Agent: Helene Doughty (hdoughty@vt.edu, 757-678-7946 ext. 3)

Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.