RICHMOND — The Virginia Farm Bureau Federation reaches a major milestone this year, marking 100 years since its incorporation on February 26, 1926.
The organization was established a century ago with the mission of advocating for agricultural interests across local, state, and national levels. Beginning next week, the federation will launch year-long celebrations honoring its centennial of supporting farming families and rural areas.
Today, VFBF boasts nearly 137,000 members across Virginia, with annual membership fees of $40 that fund programs helping families, agricultural producers, and communities prosper.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we want to remember the past, honor the present and most importantly, consider the future and all the ways we can continue to serve the commonwealth’s farmers and rural communities,” said VFBF President Scott Sink.
Throughout its century-long history, Virginia Farm Bureau has achieved numerous advocacy victories benefiting both farming and non-farming members. The organization has championed property rights protection, successfully pushed for Virginia estate tax elimination, secured funding for voluntary conservation cost-share programs, supported resources for large animal veterinary services, and worked to preserve prime agricultural land.
The federation also backs Virginia Agriculture in the Classroom, launched in 1987 to teach educators and students about agriculture’s significance. This 501(c)(3) initiative is part of a national movement helping teachers and students recognize agriculture as Virginia and America’s largest industry.
Each year, AITC coordinates Agricultural Literacy Week, during which volunteers visit elementary schools statewide to read agriculture-themed books to students. Combined with hands-on materials, educator workshops, and teacher grants, AITC impacted over 700,000 students during the 2024-25 academic year. More than 2,100 teachers currently incorporate agricultural education into core curriculum areas including science, mathematics, and reading.
To further promote agricultural awareness, Farm Bureau acquired The Meadow Event Park facility, home to the State Fair of Virginia. The organization has maintained the fair’s agricultural focus, creating opportunities to highlight Virginia’s finest agricultural products for audiences unfamiliar with farming.
Operating 104 offices across 88 counties, Virginia Farm Bureau maintains presence throughout the state. County-level staff and volunteers support local and statewide organizations, including distributing over $200,000 in youth scholarships during 2025.
Members enjoy access to comprehensive benefit programs offering substantial savings on lodging, vehicle rentals, retail purchases, and additional services. Members also receive tire discounts through the Products Division, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in the previous year.
For more than 75 years, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company has offered members complete insurance coverage, earning recognition as the nation’s top homeowners insurance provider by Forbes for two consecutive years.
The organization plans to expand and enhance all programs throughout the coming century.
Centennial celebrations will continue throughout 2026.
The Richmond headquarters will display historical artifacts chronicling VFBF company history over the past century. A commemorative photograph gallery will feature panels showcasing agriculture from all 14 board districts plus Young Farmers and Women’s Leadership programs.
The West Creek facility will feature a large Virginia county map crafted from native woods donated by Farm Bureau member properties.
Individual county offices will host special events and participate in community service initiatives still being planned.
The State Fair of Virginia, running September 26 through October 4, will introduce a new adult creative arts competition featuring Farm Bureau memorabilia.
Media contact: Kathy Dixon, VFBF assistant director of communications, at 804-370-3055.
