AGRICULTURE
As of 2022, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service, Charles City County had 145 producers, and 135 of those producers identified as white. In addition to the lack of diverse farm owners, 59 of the 145 producers were 65 or older. There is a pressing need for opportunities for young, Black and Indigenous Charles City residents to own or manage their own farms.
Agriculture is the largest industry in Virginia, and Charles City County has over 33,000 acres of farmland. As of 2022, the market value of the produce sold from these farms had increased by 39% since 2017. More and more Virginians are interested in buying and eating locally grown food for environmental and taste reasons, and Charles City County is well positioned to meet that demand.
Project BLACC will prepare participants for good careers in agriculture. We want to connect Charles City residents with the training they need for 21st century agriculture. We'll explore agricultural sciences, farm management skills, how to operate machinery, and planting. Join us!