Workshops and Events: Virginia Farm Bureau Women's Spring Conference 2019

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

HOW TO BE A SUCCESSFUL COUNTY CHAIR

Faye Hundley, Women’s State Chair

Sarah Large, Central District Leader

This workshop is geared for current and upcoming county women chairs to hear an overview on the Women’s Program and how they can assist their committee to be successful promoting agriculture.

THE OUTLOOK ON WETLANDS: The Evolution of Regulations and Where We Are Going

Lexie Jones, Soil Scientist

Despite wetlands and water resources essential role in global climate regulation, wildlife habitat, and an overall key part of our ecosystem, wetlands remain undervalued, and some believe they are under-regulated from a global perspective. Approximately 35% of the world’s wetlands were lost between 1970-2015 and the loss rate has been accelerating annually since 2000.
Losses have been driven by megatrends such as climate change, population increase, urbanization, particularly of coastal areas, and changing consumption patterns that have all fueled changes to land, water use and agriculture.
As the years progress, so do the regulations governing wetlands and water resources. Come hear how regulations governing these resources were instituted, how they have evolved, their provisions, and where they are going today.

CULTIVATING CONVERSATIONS

Stephanie Sox, South Carolina Farm Bureau, Director of Promotion and Education

Have you tried to talk about food and farming with someone only to find yourself with a hand in your face? We’ve all been there. Let’s face it – science is hard and social media is loud. This workshop will help you learn how to connect with consumers over shared values and how to have conversations that are easier and more meaningful for everyone involved.

FARM SURVIVOR: Beginning the Process of Farm Transition and Estate Planning

Andy Overbay, Ext. Agent, Agriculture and Natural Extension

So much of farm estate planning should be focused on adopting a management strategy to move things forward. We will look at overall farm management, prioritizing tasks and discuss some “need to know” estate pitfall issues.
(Other option- Farm Machinery Maintenance 10: Today’s farm machinery is so complex that it can defy the shade tree mechanic; however, the expense of farm machinery purchases makes their care of paramount importance. We will discuss some simple ways you (and others) can make your machinery last longer and perform better.)

MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES ON THE FARM

Dr. Amy Johnson, DNP, FNP-C

Mental health is an integral part of overall physical health. Few occupations challenge mental health more than agriculture. This workshop will discuss the unique challenges to agricultural mental health and how to recognize individuals who may be in crisis. Available avenues for assistance will also be discussed.

MEMBERS DEALS PLUS

Mark Dawson, Sr. District Field Services Director and Access Staff

Come learn how to use your member benefits and find out ways to help expand benefits in your area.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON ACTIVITY OPTIONS (2:00pm)

Bristol Motor Speedway Tour (1:30pm)

NASCAR short track venue located in Bristol, TN. Constructed in 1960, it held its first NASCAR race on July 30, 1961. Despite its short length, Bristol is among the most popular tracks on the NASCAR schedule because of its distinct features, which include extraordinarily steep banking, an all concrete surface, two pit roads, and stadium-like seating. It has also been named one of the loudest NASCAR tracks.

Birthplace of Country Music Museum (1:30pm)

Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, tells the story of the 1927 Bristol Session recordings, explores how developing sound technology shaped their success, and highlights how this rich musical heritage lives on in today’s music

Agriculture in the Classroom Workshop (2:00pm)

Ag Literacy Toolbox

Petals & Lace (2:00pm)

plant succulent arrangements – limited to 20 people ($20 per person)