Winter Storm Fern damages farms across the Valley

News to know valley graphic created by Royal Broadcasting employee Brooke Greene used by permission

Work is continuing across the Shenandoah Valley as farmers, first responders, and state agricultural agencies assess damage from Winter Storm Fern.

Poultry houses, greenhouses, and other farm structures were among those impacted by heavy snow.

Virginia Poultry Federation President Hobey Bauhan says at least ten poultry houses in the Valley suffered structural damage from snow load.

Meanwhile, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance reports nearly 50 storm-related claims so far, ranging from auto crashes and collapsed buildings to downed trees and frozen pipes.

State agricultural leaders say while the damage is serious, it could have been worse. Bauhan noted that a similar storm in 2003 caused more than 50 poultry house collapses statewide.

As damage assessments continue, organizations including the Virginia Poultry Federation, Virginia Farm Bureau, Virginia Cooperative Extension, and the Farm Service Agency are working with farmers to document losses and coordinate assistance.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here. 

Rooted in Community: Plant Clinics, Seed Swaps, and Christmas Cactus

indoor plant clinic

In a recent episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes a panel of passionate Extension Master Gardeners—Carole Belkin, Barbara Bosserman, and Joanne Royaltey—to share the excitement surrounding two beloved community events: the Indoor Plant Clinic at Bowman Library and the annual Seed Exchange at the Clarke County Fairgrounds. Click here to listen. As winter settles in, these events offer residents a chance to connect, learn, and grow—both literally and figuratively.

Hands-On Learning at the Indoor Plant Clinic

Kicking off the conversation, Carole describes the much-anticipated Indoor Plant Clinic, scheduled for January 31st at Bowman Library. This one-day event transforms the library’s front room into a vibrant hub of horticultural activity. Attendees can browse tables brimming with houseplant cuttings, receive expert advice from Extension Master Gardeners, and even pot their new plants with guidance on selecting the right soil and containers. The clinic isn’t just for adults; children are invited to participate in hands-on activities designed to spark their curiosity about plants and gardening. Carole emphasizes the event’s welcoming atmosphere, noting that many visitors return year after year, eager to share stories and photos of thriving plants they received at previous clinics.

Sowing the Seeds of Community at the Seed Exchange

Next, Barbara introduces the annual Seed Exchange, set for February 7th at the newly renovated Clarke County Fairgrounds. This free event invites the public to bring seeds to share—or simply to pick up new varieties for their gardens. With tables dedicated to vegetables, herbs, perennials, and even native plant seeds, the exchange fosters a spirit of generosity and learning. Master Gardeners are on hand to answer questions about planting, soil, and seasonal care, while local organizations like the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley and Clarke County 4-H add to the festive, educational atmosphere. Children are encouraged to participate through a fun stamp-collecting activity, ensuring that the next generation of gardeners feels right at home.

Expert Advice and Lasting Connections

Throughout the conversation, the guests highlight the invaluable role Extension Master Gardeners play in the community. Joanne, also an Associate Extension Agent, explains how these volunteers provide research-based information, answer questions year-round, and help residents navigate the challenges of gardening in the Valley’s unique climate. The conversation also touches on the importance of avoiding invasive plant species, the joy of sharing gardening successes, and the sense of camaraderie that blossoms at events like the plant clinic and seed exchange.

Looking Ahead: Growing Together

As the discussion draws to a close, the panelists reflect on the power of gardening to bring people together. Whether it’s repotting a 20-year-old snake plant, teaching children how to propagate cuttings, or simply exchanging seeds and stories, these events nurture both plants and relationships. The Extension Master Gardeners invite everyone—novices and seasoned green thumbs alike—to join them in cultivating a more connected, resilient, and verdant community.

For more information about upcoming events, resources, and how to become an Extension Master Gardener, visit your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office listed below or visit the NSV Master Gardener website: https://nsvmga.org/

Frederick County/City of Winchester: https://frederick.ext.vt.edu/

Clarke County: https://clarke.ext.vt.edu/

Shenandoah County: https://shenandoah.ext.vt.edu/

Page County: https://page.ext.vt.edu/

Warren County: https://warren.ext.vt.edu/

Turkey Talk: Avoiding Food-borne Illness This Thanksgiving

turkey talk pod

As the holiday season approaches, families gather around tables filled with delicious food and festive cheer. However, amidst the laughter and celebration, food safety often takes a back seat—until someone gets sick. In a recent episode of “The Valley Today,” host Janet Michael talks with Amanda Johnson, a food, nutrition, and health extension agent, to discuss how you can keep your holiday meals both tasty and safe. Click here to listen.

Thawing the Turkey: Plan Ahead for Safety

Amanda wastes no time addressing one of the most common holiday pitfalls: thawing the turkey. She urges listeners to plan ahead, explaining that the safest way to thaw a turkey is in the refrigerator, allowing one to five days depending on the bird’s size. If you find yourself in a pinch, Amanda recommends the cold water method, but she emphasizes the importance of changing the water every 30 minutes to prevent bacteria from multiplying. She also cautions against contaminating your sink and reminds everyone to sanitize thoroughly after handling raw poultry.

Kitchen Hygiene: Don’t Spread the Bacteria

Next, the conversation shifts to kitchen hygiene. Amanda debunks the myth that washing your turkey under running water makes it cleaner. In reality, this practice spreads bacteria around your kitchen. Instead, she suggests patting the turkey dry with a paper towel and focusing on cooking it to the proper temperature. Janet and Amanda agree that sanitizing surfaces, washing hands for at least 20 seconds, and using separate cutting boards for raw and ready-to-eat foods are non-negotiable steps for a safe kitchen.

Cooking and Storing: Timing Is Everything

Once the turkey is in the oven, Amanda stresses the importance of cooking it to an internal temperature of 165°F, checking multiple spots including the breast, thigh, and wing. She advises against stuffing the bird, as the internal cavity can harbor dangerous bacteria. After the meal, Amanda recommends carving and refrigerating leftovers within two hours to keep food out of the “danger zone” where bacteria thrive. She points out that cutting up the turkey helps it cool faster, reducing the risk of food-borne illness.

Reheating and Leftovers: Stay Out of the Danger Zone

As the discussion continues, Amanda tackles the topic of leftovers. She insists that reheating food to 165°F is crucial, whether you use the oven or microwave. Crock pots, she warns, take too long to reach a safe temperature and should not be used for reheating. Amanda also shares practical advice for storing leftovers: divide large portions into smaller containers to speed up cooling, and label everything with dates to avoid confusion. She reminds listeners that most leftovers are safe for three to four days in the fridge, or up to six months in the freezer for best quality.

Pet Safety and Common Misconceptions

Before wrapping up, Janet and Amanda address a few often-overlooked issues. They warn against giving cooked turkey bones to pets, as they can splinter and cause harm. Janet also highlights the dangers of using sponges and dish towels for cleanup, recommending disposable paper towels and sanitizing wipes instead. Throughout the conversation, Amanda dispels common misconceptions and encourages everyone to use common sense and good hygiene to protect their loved ones.

Enjoy the Holidays—Safely

With Amanda’s expert advice, you can confidently prepare, serve, and store your holiday meals. By planning ahead, practicing good kitchen hygiene, and following safe cooking and storage guidelines, you’ll ensure that your celebrations are memorable for all the right reasons. This holiday season, keep food safety at the top of your menu and enjoy peace of mind along with your pumpkin pie.

Click here to download a Thanksgiving Food Safety sheet.

Getting the Dirt on Soil: A Guide to Soil Testing

soil testing

On a recent episode of The Valley Today – listen here – host Janet Michael welcomes Elizabeth Baldwin, Unit Coordinator and Page County Associate Extension Agent, to demystify the world beneath our feet. Together, they explore why soil testing is a game-changer for homeowners, gardeners, and farmers alike, and how understanding your soil can lead to healthier plants, cost savings, and a more sustainable environment.

Why Soil Sampling Matters

Elizabeth quickly sets the record straight: “Dirt is misplaced soil, but soil is living.” She explains that soil testing is not just for large-scale farmers—anyone who wants a thriving lawn, garden, or pasture can benefit. Soil samples reveal the unique composition of your ground, helping you tailor fertilization and amendments to what your plants actually need. This targeted approach prevents over-fertilization, saves money, and reduces the risk of nutrient runoff polluting local waterways.

The Simple Steps to Sampling

Many listeners may feel intimidated by the idea of soil testing, but Baldwin reassures them: the process is straightforward. Homeowners can pick up a soil sample kit from their local extension office or participating farm stores. Using a soil probe or a simple shovel, they collect multiple small samples from different areas of their yard or garden, mix them together, and send a portion to the lab. For farmers and those selling crops, the service is free; for homeowners, it’s a modest $10 investment that can pay off in healthier plants and fewer unnecessary purchases.

Making Sense of the Results

Once the lab processes the sample—often within a week or two—results arrive by email. Elizabeth acknowledges that the report can look like a foreign language at first, filled with abbreviations and numbers. However, she emphasizes that the most important section is the recommendations at the bottom, which translate the science into actionable steps: how much fertilizer to use, what kind, and whether to adjust soil pH with lime. The extension office stands ready to help interpret these results, ensuring that even the math-averse can confidently care for their soil.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

The conversation highlights common mistakes, such as overcorrecting soil pH with household remedies like coffee grounds or wood ash. Elizabeth shares real-life stories of gardeners who inadvertently made their soil too acidic or alkaline, underscoring the importance of testing before making changes. She recommends sampling every three years, or more frequently if you’re troubleshooting persistent problems.

Extension Offices: Your Local Resource

Janet and Elizabeth remind listeners that local extension offices are invaluable allies. Whether you’re confused by your soil report, unsure how to calculate fertilizer amounts, or simply want advice on what to plant, extension agents are eager to help. There are no silly questions, and the support is just a phone call or visit away.

Conclusion: Healthy Soil, Healthy Plants

By the end of the conversation, listeners learn that soil sampling is an accessible, affordable, and essential tool for anyone who wants to grow healthier plants and steward their land responsibly. With expert guidance from extension agents like Elizabeth, understanding your soil is no longer a mystery—it’s the first step toward a thriving outdoor space.

Learn More about Extension in your Community

Frederick County/City of Winchester: https://frederick.ext.vt.edu/

Clarke County: https://clarke.ext.vt.edu/

Shenandoah County: https://shenandoah.ext.vt.edu/

Page County: https://page.ext.vt.edu/

Warren County: https://warren.ext.vt.edu/

What Are Your Money Habitudes?

Money habitudes

In a recent episode of ‘The Valley Today,’ host Janet Michael spoke with Karen Poff. Karen is a Senior Extension Agent, Family & Consumer Science, Virginia Cooperative Extension office who is based in the Warren County office, but serves all five surrounding counties. She also manages the Northern Shenandoah Valley Financial Education Program. The discussion  – listen here – centered around an intriguing financial tool called ‘Money Habitudes,’ a card game designed to help individuals understand their financial habits and attitudes. According to Poff, the game provides a lighter, more engaging way to explore one’s money personality, blending habits and attitudes—or ‘habitudes.’

Poff explained that understanding one’s money habitudes can profoundly impact financial management skills and overall satisfaction. The game categorizes personalities into types that include ‘carefree,’ ‘giving,’ ‘planning,’ ‘spontaneous,’ ‘security,’ and ‘status.’ Each category carries its own set of advantages and challenges. ‘None of these habitudes are inherently good or bad,’ Poff said, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and understanding one’s spending behavior.

The conversation touched upon several personality types starting with the ‘carefree’ type, where money is not a priority and life happens as it comes. While carefree individuals may enjoy financial freedom, they might struggle with long-term planning and savings. In comparison, the ‘giving’ type finds joy in helping others, but may sometimes neglect their own needs. Janet found herself aligning closely with both carefree and giving attributes, seeing both their strengths and drawbacks.

Poff shared her own experiences as a ‘planning’ personality. While planners are well-prepared and goal-oriented, they can miss out on spontaneous opportunities. Janet humorously recounted a relatable story of losing out on a Prime Day deal for a vacuum because of overanalyzing, illustrating a planner’s common dilemma.

Another key personality discussed was ‘security,’ where feeling in control and safe financially is paramount. Poff noted that while this trait can lead to a reliable financial strategy, it might also cause one to miss out on enjoyable activities due to over-cautiousness.

‘Spontaneous’ personalities, on the other hand, enjoy living in the moment, often making impulsive purchases. While this can be exciting, it can also lead to financial instability. Janet admitted that she occasionally indulges in spontaneous purchases, sometimes hiding her spending habits humorously.

Lastly, the ‘status’ personality focuses on projecting a positive image through their spending. While beneficial for social standing, this might lead to unnecessary expenses and financial strain.

Poff’s key takeaway was that understanding your Money Habitudes allows for better financial planning and balance. She encouraged listeners to blend these insights with practical money management strategies. Janet concluded the episode, highlighting the importance of these conversations in promoting financial literacy in a way that’s both enjoyable and enlightening.

For more insights and to identify your own money personality, consider exploring the Money Habitudes game. It’s a low-barrier and insightful way to delve into financial management beyond just crunching the numbers.

VCE selects new associate extension agent

water testing

Virginia Cooperative Extension(VCE) reports by email the addition of Amanda Johnson as their new Associate Extension Agent.

Johnson is now the agent in charge of Family and Consumer Sciences: Food, Nutrition, and Health.

She will serve Frederick, Clarke, Shenandoah, Page, and Warren counties.

Johnson holds a master’s degree in agriculture with an emphasis on child development and extension education from West Virginia University.

She also holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and family studies.

Johnson is focused on understanding local needs through focus groups and data analysis to develop meaningful, priority programs tailored to the area.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

4H Overnight Camps for Culpeper, Warren, Clarke, Shenandoah, and Rappahannock Counties

4-H overnight camps

In this episode of The Valley Today – listen here – host Janet Michael dives into the engaging and enriching world of 4-H in Warren County. Joining Janet is Emily Shultz, the Associate Extension Agent for Warren County, who’s been a pivotal figure in the 4-H community for the past year.

Reflecting on her first year, Emily shared the whirlwind of activities and opportunities that have kept her busy. The last year saw the addition of five new 4-H clubs and the initiation of novel in-school programs, all aimed at offering more avenues for youth engagement. The ongoing renovation of their office hasn’t slowed them down, as Emily continues her work from home.

For those unfamiliar with 4-H, it’s a community for young people to explore diverse interests. Warren County’s 4-H boasts seven community clubs and one in-school club covering a range of activities from livestock to photography and crafts, breaking the stereotype that 4-H is solely about farming. Emily emphasizes the program’s versatility – there’s something for everyone, from public speaking to talent shows.

Children can join 4-H as Cloverbuds at the age of five, participating in age-specific activities that are fun and educational. Older members, ages nine and up, can engage in more specialized clubs, including shooting sports and horse clubs. A big draw for many parents is the cost – membership in 4-H is free, making it accessible to everyone.

The program thrives on the dedication of its volunteers. With a robust team of 60-70 volunteers in Warren County, many bringing unique skills, the support is invaluable. There’s always room for more willing hands – anyone interested in volunteering can reach out to Emily to find out how to get involved.

4-H clubs meet regularly for various activities, including community service, guest speakers, and hands-on learning experiences. The program’s flexibility allows it to cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring that all kids find their “spark.” Emily reassures that even those without livestock can participate fully through educational projects and competitions.

One of the highlights of 4-H is the range of camps available, from day camps to overnight stays at the Northern Virginia 4-H Center in Warren County. These 4-H overnight camps offer incredible opportunities for kids to gain independence, learn new skills, and enjoy the outdoors. Kids can select from a variety of classes, ranging from archery and canoeing to arts and crafts and outdoor living skills.

Parents interested in signing up their kids for the 4-H overnight camps can do so easily via the county’s website or by contacting the local 4-H office. Camp fees are $400, which covers all activities, meals, and a camp t-shirt. Scholarships are also available to ensure that all children have the chance to participate. The upcoming camp, taking place from June 8th to 12th, promises an enriching and exciting experience for all attendees. Warren County shares it’s overnight camp with neighboring localities: Culpeper, Clarke, Shenandoah, and Rappahannock Counties.

As the conversation wraps up, it’s clear that Warren County’s 4-H program offers invaluable experiences for children. From fostering independence and leadership skills at 4-H overnight camps to providing a wide range of clubs for diverse interests, 4-H is a cornerstone of the community. Emily Schultz’s passion and dedication shine through as she encourages parents to explore the opportunities available and get their children involved. For more information, reach out to the local 4-H office or visit their official website listed below. Let your child’s 4-H overnight camp adventure begin!

Camp Website and Registration Link: https://sites.google.com/vt.edu/csrcw4hcamp/Home

Warren County 4-H Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcewarrencounty4h

Culpeper County 4-H Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/culpepercounty4H

Shenandoah County 4-H Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShenandoahCounty4H

Clarke County 4-H Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClarkeCounty4H

Emily Shultz, Warren County Contact Information: eshultz@vt.edu 540-635-4549

Claudia Lefeve, Clarke County Contact Information: cmybarra@vt.edu 540-955-5164

Carol Nansel, Shenandoah County Contact Information: cnansel@vt.edu 540-459-6140

Cristy Mosley, Culpeper County Contact Information: nibblins@vt.edu 540-727-3435

Sharon Flippo, Rappahannock County Contact Information: sflippo05@vt.edu 540-675-3619

Grassland Partnership Program

Farms along the I-81 corridor that have pastureland that is used for forage production are invited to participate in the Grassland Partnership Project.

The project focuses on the impact of six grassland management practices.

The affect soil carbon storage, input cost, profitability, productivity and in some cases the response of birds and pollinators.

Funding is available to farmers who install at least three of the six practices and maintain them for at least five years.

The Grasslands Partnership  is a collaboration of the U.S. Department of Agriculture , VSU College of Agriculture, and Virginia Cooperative Extension.

For questions please contact Grasslands Project Coordinator Amanda “Mandy” Fletcher at 804-892-0108 or afletcher@vsu.edu.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

 

Spotted Lanternflies return to region

The Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Northern Shenandoah Valley Agriculture and Natural Resources team reported that Spotted Lanternfly nymphs have begun their seasonal hatching from egg masses across the region.

Spotted Lanternflies are a very serious pest that damages grapes, peaches, hops and a variety of other crops.

They also have been reported around the home on ornamentals and other landscape features.

Spotted Lanternflies first emerged in the area in January of 2018 and are now considered established in the Northern Shenandoah Valley.

If you find a Spotted Lanternfly, kill it on the spot.

Winchester, Frederick, Clarke, Shenandoah, Page and Warren Counties remain under quarantine and businesses within the area must obtain a permit from the VDACS and inspect all articles to make sure they do not contain any life stage of spotted lantern fly that could spread to un-infested areas.

To learn about the Spotted Lanternfly Treatment Program, click here.

To learn more about quarantined counties, click here.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

Spotted Lanternfly Update and Quarantine Details

spotted lanternfly quarantine update

The conversation for Extension Office Friday on The Valley Today with Janet Michael welcomed back Extension Agents Mark Sutphin & Joanne Royaltey from the Frederick County Extension Office. Mark & Joanne work out of the VCE-Frederick County office but also serve Clarke, Page, Shenandoah, and Warren Counties. Today was an update on the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) invasion and discussion about the expanded quarantine area. Mark & Joanne explained why the quarantine is in place and was expanded plus they said that reporting SLF on your property is no longer necessary. Joanne gave some do’s and don’ts for “disposing” of the pest and examples for getting kids involved. Click here to listen to the conversation.

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced on July 8, 2022 that Virginia’s Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine has expanded to include the counties of Albemarle,Augusta, Carroll, Page, Prince William, Rockbridge, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Wythe and the cities of Buena Vista, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Lexington, Lynchburg, Manassas, Manassas Park, Staunton, and Waynesboro. Frederick, Clarke and Warren counties and the city of Winchester, which were previously included in Virginia’s Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine and will remain so until further notice.

To slow the spread of SLF, businesses in the quarantined area are required to obtain a permit from VDACS and inspect regulated articles to ensure that the articles do not contain any life stage of the insect. Regulated articles are those which are considered to be a risk for movement of SLF to un-infested areas and include, but are not limited to:

  • Any life stage of the SLF;
  • Live or dead trees; nursery stock; green lumber; firewood; logs; perennial plants; garden plants or produce; stumps; branches; mulch; or composted or un-composted chips, bark, or yard waste;
  • Outdoor industrial or construction materials or equipment; concrete barriers or structures; stone, quarry material, ornamental stone, or concrete; or construction,landscaping, or remodeling waste;
  • Shipping containers, such as wood crates or boxes;
  • Outdoor household articles, including recreational vehicles; lawn tractors or mowers; grills; grill or furniture covers; tarps; mobile homes; tile; stone; deck boards; or
  • Any equipment, trucks, or vehicles not stored indoors; any means of conveyance utilized for movement of an article; any vehicle; or any trailer, wagon.

The permit application is available for download at www.vdacs.virginia.gov/plant-industry-services-spotted-lanternfly.shtml. Online training is required prior to submitting the permit application. There is a fee of $6 per person for the training, but no fee for the permit. Once training is completed, businesses must submit the completed permit application to VDACS at SpottedLanternfly@vdacs.virginia.gov.

The quarantine also requires residents and visitors in the area to inspect regulated articles for SLF and ensure those articles are free from the invasive insect prior to leaving the quarantined area. Residents and visitors are not required to obtain the SLF permit, but are strongly encouraged to learn how to identify SLF and kill the pest insect when found.

Joanne mentioned during the conversation that there were links in her email signature. You can email her here: royaltey@vt.edu but below are all of the links & more information.

Please do share this info with your neighbors. Combating SLF will truly ‘take a village’ and it is up to each resident to do their part! If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out to Joanne.

Biology

Lifecycle Calendar

Detailed fact sheet on the life cycle and control of SLF

UDSA information on SLF

Identification

Possible SLF Egg Mass Look-alikes in Virginia

Possible SLF Immature Look-alikes in Virginia

Possible SLF Adult Look-alikes in Virginia

Control

Best Management Practices for Spotted Lanternfly in Yards and Landscapes

Residential Control for Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) in Virginia

Best Management Practices for Spotted Lanternfly on Christmas Tree Farms

Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia Vineyards: Lycorma delicatula (White) (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae)

Quarantine Information

Virginia Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine

Spotted Lanternfly Treatment Program Information

What Virginians Need to Know About the Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine

Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Spotted Lanternfly Resources

Control and Utilization of the Tree-of-Heaven by the Virginia Department of Forestry.

http://www.dof.virginia.gov/infopubs/Control-and-Utilization-of-Tree-of-Heaven-2019-03_pub.pdf

Tree of Heaven identification

Invasive Plant Species: Ailanthus (Ailanthus altissima)

Penn State also has some helpful info that you may find useful as you combat SLF:

Comprehensive SLF Management Guide

Avoid Home Remedies to Control Spotted Lanternfly (psu.edu)

How To Remove Spotted Lanternfly Eggs (psu.edu)

Should you wish to take a pesticide free approach to managing SLF, I have included below 2 videos about banding and circle traps.

Spotted Lanternfly Banding 2020 (psu.edu)

Spotted Lanternfly Circle Trap (psu.edu)