The Virginia Association of Biological Farming (VABF) is an incorporated 501(c)(3) organization in the Commonwealth of Virginia that educates about, advocates for, and generally promotes methods of organic and sustainable agriculture.

General About the Organization/Mission

The VABF is an member-sponsored organization of farmers, activists, educators, extension agents and consumers who support biological and organic farming and gardening. The VAFB organizes an annual conference focused on ecological agriculture that more than 500 people attended in 2015. In addition, the association coordinates a series of workshops, farm tours, classes and events throughout the year across the Commonwealth of Virginia that focus on promoting sustainable agriculture techniques. In addition, the association develops resources such as best practice guides and information sheets for raising livestock and growing grains, fruits, and vegetables and generally serves as a resource for to Virginia farmers, gardeners, homesteaders and others interested in sustainable agriculture.

 Basic Info

Type of Organization

Non-profit

Website

 http://vabf.org/

Primary Contact

Executive Director: Sue Ellen Johnson

sueellen@vabf.org

Social Media

  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VABFarming

History of Organization

Founded in 1977

Programs and Projects

  • Annual Conference: The 2016 conference will be held January 28-30, 2016 at the W.E. Skelton 4-H Conference Center at Smith Mountain Lake.
  • The Virginia Biological Farmer: quarterly newsletter, containing news and events related to sustainable agriculture in Virginia
  • Farm Tours: VBRF organizes tours around organic farms located in a particular region to better connect consumers and farmers 
  • Research: conducts research projects for the benefit of the state’s organic farmers and gardeners.  Information Sheets: The VABF website contains a set of guides with detailed information about a variety of topics in sustainable agriculture.
  • Regional Action Groups (RAG): VABF members in the same region (loosely defined) who organize association activities such as staffing VABF display tables at local gardening and food events, coordinating farm tours, and generally help connect local efforts working for agriculture sustainability

Partners and Frequent Collaborators

  • Virginia State University
  • Certified Organic Farmers
  • Certified Naturally Grown Farmers
  • US Department of Agriculture
  • Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Future Developments for This Wiki