WSVA Spotlight on Valley Agriculture - James Martin - Soil and Water Conservation

James Martin, Virginia’s Division Director of Soil and Water Conservation, discusses the Virginia Agricultural Cost Share Program and its importance to Shenandoah Valley farmers. Martin explains that conservation practices—such as livestock stream exclusion, rotational grazing, and establishing streamside buffers—not only protect water quality in local streams and the Chesapeake Bay but also improve livestock health and farm operations by providing cleaner water and reducing veterinary issues. He notes that local Soil and Water Conservation Districts help farmers identify appropriate practices and access financial assistance, and that additional support is available through federal USDA programs promoting conservation and climate‑smart agriculture.