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2025

  • Article Item
    Leaf with clear yellow stripes.
    What is beech leaf disease? , article

    Beech leaf disease (BLD) is a newly emerging disease affecting beech trees (genus Fagus) in North America. The causal agent of BLD is a previously undescribed nematode species, informally referred to as the beech leaf disease nematode (BLDN). BLD poses a significant threat to beech tree populations, which are ecologically and economically important components of forest ecosystems. Understanding the biology, ecology, and management of the BLDN is crucial for addressing this emerging forest health issue.

    Date: 08 Dec 2025 -
  • Article Item
    Group of people pose behind a table laden with silver metal cans.
    Bedford County’s recipe for a resilient food system , article

    Each year, hunters participating in Bedford County’s Hunters for the Hungry program donate thousands of pounds of venison to help feed those in need. Food insecurity is a top issue for Bedford County, and an analysis of local food pantry inventories revealed that lean, healthy protein is often in shortest supply. High protein venison offers an ideal solution.

    Date: 11 Nov 2025 -
  • Article Item
    Hay bale sits in a field with other bales visible in the distance.
    What is bale grazing? , article

    Bale grazing is a winter-feeding method where 1-3 months of hay is set out on pasture (typically late fall or early winter when ground conditions are suitable) and fed in a planned, controlled manner, similar to rotational grazing. Temporary electric fencing is moved every 1-7 days to give the cattle access to a new set of bales. A major advantage of bale grazing is that a tractor is not needed the majority of the winter to feed hay. Bale grazing requires a paradigm shift for cattle farmers: Instead of moving hay to the cattle all winter, you will be moving cattle to the hay.

    Date: 07 Nov 2025 -
  • Article Item
    Woman stands at a table with a sign reading "Loudoun Hunger Relief"
    Extension partners with Loudoun Hunger Relief to teach nutritious, budget-friendly cooking , article

    Loudoun County Extension collaborated with Loudoun Hunger Relief to hold a Cooking on a Budget program at the Sterling Library. The program was developed by Loudoun Hunger Relief to teach income-constrained individuals how to prepare veggie-forward dishes, which are an inexpensive form of nutrition.

    Date: 05 Nov 2025 -
  • Article Item
    Woman stands in a greenhouse wearing gloves and holding up potting soil.
    Erin Small wins national award for innovation in flower farming support , article

    When Erin Small, Prince Edward County agriculture and natural resources Extension agent, noticed that many local farmers were adding cut flower sales to boost their businesses, she was inspired to help. Small created the Cut Flower Discussion Group — a first-of-its-kind initiative in Virginia that has transformed how flower growers connect, learn, and thrive across the commonwealth.

    Date: 05 Nov 2025 -
  • Article Item
    Man stands with cows in a field.
    Get to Know Extension: Carl Stafford , article

    Carl Stafford is a senior Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Extension Agent specializing in animal sciences. For nearly four decades, he has helped Virginia farmers apply research-based solutions to local agricultural challenges through hands-on education and community partnerships.

    Date: 22 Oct 2025 -
  • Article Item
    Woman stands and talks to a group of people with their backs turned as they work at kitchen counter.
    To tackle hunger, Extension agents have the knowledge and the networks , article

    Faith Dickerson, Director of the Culpeper Food Closet, is racing to keep up with the surging demand for food in her community—and she knows where to turn for help: Lenah Nguyen, a Virginia Cooperative Extension family and consumer sciences agent in Culpeper County.

    Date: 15 Oct 2025 -