that allow farmers of Virginia to…

1. Explore and develop opportunities using existing production and market resources and risk management techniques;
2. Transition from traditional production and marketing into more financially rewarding agricultural enterprises;
3. Develop value-added and high value agricultural product and enhanced market opportunities;
4. Address challenges facing farmer’s production and marketing resources;
5. Address issues affecting the sustainability of rural Virginia;
6. Establish a centralized resource for farmers to easily access cooperative development and value-added information; and,
7. Better utilize and coordinate the wide-ranging expertise available in Virginia and as such better facilitate and enhance current and future efforts and programs in these areas.