CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Agriculture and Conservation Day on Thursday, Feb. 20, was an opportunity to share the work and priorities of the West Virginia Conservation Agency with lawmakers at the state Capitol in Charleston.

We were able to honor, in person, Gini and Brian LaMaster, winners of the 2024 West Virginia Non-Traditional Conservation Farm of the Year. The LaMasters were recognized on the Senate floor by senators from their home district, Sen. Darren Thorne and Sen. Tom Willis. The senators presented the LaMasters with a special citation, and also had a second made for Sonny and Carole Taylor of Cottage Hill Farm, winners of the 2024 WV Traditional Conservation Farm of the Year.

We also had information on hand about our programs and our support for enhanced funding for agricultural enhancement best management practices.   

Ag and Conservation Day was also an opportunity for conservation district supervisors to speak to legislators about their goals and priorities.