The Future of Farming in Loudoun American Farmland Trust and Local Farmers Weigh In
by amanda cather and brooks lamb
On a rainy Thursday afternoon in February , more than 60 people — many of them farmers — filled the room at the Loudoun County Government Center in Leesburg for a discussion with Board of Supervisors Chair Phyllis Randall . A panel of Loudoun County farmers were invited by the Farm Bureau to share their thoughts on the future of farming in the county , including land access , access to affordable housing , labor challenges , land use , and more . According to Tia Earman , farmer and president of the Loudoun County Farm Bureau , one of the goals was to show county leadership the energy and vibrancy of the existing Loudoun farming community .
Farmers Casey Wisch of Long Stone Farm in Lovettsville and Stacey Carlberg of Fireside Farm in Purcellville , two of the five young farmers invited to participate in the discussion , were impressed and encouraged by the turnout — and its implications for Loudoun County ’ s commitment to agriculture .
“ One thing I love about farmers is their grit and passion ,” Wisch said following the meeting . “ We are all creative and giving souls and land is of utmost importance to us . We understand the long-term importance of its availability and health . People showed up !”
Wisch , a grass-based livestock producer , and Carlberg , an organic vegetable farmer who leases land , are both first-generation farmers with decades of experience and deep roots in Loudoun County . They are living the unique farming conundrum of agriculture in Loudoun County — a challenging environment that is also full of opportunity . With a diversity of farming operations and support services and a robust consumer base , Loudoun has the chance to propel a holistic vision for agriculture .
“ Land use decisions are rooted at the local level ,”
Wisch pointed out . “ They have a say in what you can and can ’ t do on your land via the almighty zoning ordinance .” These decisions impact the ability of first- and next-generation farmers to access land in the county to start or expand profitable and sustainable farm businesses . It is critical for the county to decide , Wisch said , if they want to play a role in increasing access to land through thoughtful planning and zoning
42 wander I spring • summer 2023