Mathews farmers explore ag cooperative

Farmers in Mathews County are coming together to explore a new way to strengthen their farms, boost local food access, and keep more value in the community: a farmer-led agricultural cooperative. The first planning meeting was held last Friday at the Mathews County Extension office, sparking excitement and collaboration among area producers, according to a press release. "We've been· dreaming about ways to make our farms stronger together for years," said Mark Zamanian, owner and operator of Blessed Harmony Farm. "A cooperative run by farmers, for farmers, could help us secure fair prices and ensure our product stays local. It's thrilling to finally take real steps toward that vision, he said."

Frank Long, Virginia Cooperative Extension agriculture and natural resources agent, spoke to local agriculture and aquaculture producers during a meeting on Friday to determine insterest in starting a local farmers' cooperative.
Frank Long, Virginia Cooperative Extension agriculture and natural resources agent, spoke to local agriculture and aquaculture producers during a meeting on Friday to determine insterest in starting a local farmers' cooperative.

The proposed cooperative aims to tackle shared challenges that local farmers face, including low market prices, rising costs, limited storage, and transportation hurdles, said the release. By working together under a farmer-led model, the cooperative would provide practical • solutions, build resilience, and strengthen Mathews County's local food system. "This isn't just about business-it's about community," said Frank Long, extension agent for agriculture and natural resources in Mathews and Middlesex counties. "We're here to listen, guide discussions, and help farmers explore cooperative models. Any cooperative that emerges will be led by farmers, reflect their priorities, and operate with transparency and shared ownership."

Over the coming months, extension agents will host a series of informal listening sessions, including community gatherings, market-day conversations, and on-farm visits. These sessions are designed to ensure all voices are heard and to encourage participation from agriculture and aquaculture producers across the county. Farmers and community members interested in learning more are invited to join the next gathering at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, at 10494 Buckley Hall Road, Mathews, or contact Middlesex Extension at 804-758-4120.