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News Release 4-14-2000 |
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PROTECTING AGRICULTURE'S FUTURE WILL BE THE SUBJECT OF APRIL 19 PRESS CONFERENCE AT MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA MARTINSBURG, W.VA. - The Voluntary Farmland Protection Program, or Senate Bill Number 209, was passed by the West Virginia Legislature during the 2000 session and was signed into law by Governor Cecil H. Underwood on April 15. As this legislation will have a great impact on the Eastern Panhandle region of West Virginia, State Agriculture Commissioner Gus R. Douglass will address a gathering of agricultural officials and farmers during a press conference at the Martinsburg Holiday Inn on April 19 at 6 p.m. Commissioner Douglass plans to discuss how this legislation will benefit all the citizens of West Virginia by keeping the Mountain State's natural beauty intact and ensuring the future of farming in West Virginia. "The Eastern Panhandle has seen incredible growth and I believe will continue to see its infrastructure expand," Commissioner Douglass said. "My concern is that we do not lose the scenic beauty and productive agriculture that has also been an important part of this region. In creating this voluntary program, we allow for continued development but also offer protection with easements for those farmers who wish to see their land remain productive. From tourism to farm fresh produce, everyone benefits from protecting our agricultural heritage." After the Commissioner's remarks, he will present the members of the Eastern Panhandle People's Empowerment Coalition (EPPEC) with a commemorative plaque in recognition of their hard work and dedication to this important program. Invited guests include the West Virginia Congressional delegation, West Virginia legislators from the Eastern Panhandle and the legislation's sponsors, as well as state and federal government agencies. Jim Michael, Chairman of the Eastern Panhandle Soil Conservation District, will host the event. For more information, contact Bill Bissett, Communications Chief for the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, 304/558-2201, or 304/540-2950 (pager). |
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©2001, 2002 West Virginia Department of Agriculture, All Rights Reserved |
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