WASHINGTON, D.C. (WVDN) – Today, Senator Jim Justice released a statement in honor of National Agriculture Week:
“I am beyond proud to recognize the hard work of our West Virginia farmers who keep our communities strong. Our farmers are the most productive engine imaginable. Even with the hardships they face right now, including high input costs and low commodity prices, they keep feeding this country because they absolutely love it. I can tell you just this—our agriculture sector is absolutely critical to America’s economy. Nothing is more important than our family farm; their dedication drives our state and the nation forward, and they deserve our gratitude not just this week but every day,” said Senator Jim Justice.
BACKGROUND:
National Agriculture Week is March 15-21, 2026.
In 2026, there are about 365,000 head of cattle in West Virginia.
In 2025, West Virginia has approximately 22,500 farms operating across 3,500,000 acres of land in the state.
In 2025, West Virginia had around 3,900,000 turkeys.
In 2024, the state produced approximately 83.1 million broiler chickens.
The state’s sheep inventory totals about 36,000 head.
West Virginia agriculture generates nearly $1 billion in annual cash receipts, primarily from the livestock and poultry industries.
2022 Census of Agriculture Data:
Around 98% of farms in West Virginia are classified as small farms.
The average farm size in the state is 156 acres.
Family-owned and operated farms account for approximately 93% of all farms in West Virginia.
