Local AG

On today’s episode of Local AG, we’re celebrating Virginia Wine Month with a visit to Burnbrae Vineyards!Host Melody and co-host Dorothy sit down with owner Edgar to hear how his family farm transformed from raising cattle and sheep into a six-and-a-half-acre vineyard producing award-winning wines.Edgar shares the challenges of this year’s harvest, the patience it takes to grow a successful vineyard, and the story behind the farm’s restored log cabin. He also reflects on how his former career in cardiac and thoracic surgery shaped his appreciation for bringing people together.Tune in to hear more about the journey behind Burnbrae Vineyards and the importance of community, agriculture, and Virginia-grown wine!

In the 25th episode of Local AG, Melody Divers welcomes Josh Leamy, Chair of the Bedford County Young Farmers chapter, to discuss the program’s history, mission, and efforts to rebuild the local chapter. Open to individuals ages 18–35, the Young Farmers program focuses on leadership development, community involvement, and agricultural education. Josh also shares his background in cow-calf farming and encourages the next generation to get involved in agriculture.

The episode also features Lee Wittekind from Bedford County Parks and Recreation, who previews the free, family-friendly Blue Ridge Bee Festival on September 12 at Falling Creek Park. The festival celebrates bees and other pollinators while bringing the community together for local food, educational activities, vendors, and more.

In this mini episode of Local AG, host Melody Divers chats with Mackenzie Mutter about the 2026 Bedford County Fair, running August 21–23 at Liberty Lake Park. Mackenzie highlights exciting features including the expanded Kids Activity Tent, Rocking Chair Conversations with local historians, live music, a Community Talent Show, and a foam dance party. The fair offers free admission and parking, with shuttle services available. Ride tickets are purchased onsite, and the Home Goods Contest accepts entries through August 19th. Visitors are encouraged to visit https://www.bedfordvafair.org/ and follow Bedford County Fair on social media for updates and details.

In Episode 24 of Local AG, host Melody Divers leads a panel discussion on safely sharing roads with farm equipment in Bedford County. Sheriff Mike Miller clarifies that farm machinery is legally permitted on public roads. Farmers W.P. Johnson and Johnny Divers explain why pulling over or waving drivers past isn't always safe or practical. Insurance agent Eric Johnson highlights the financial risks of unsafe passing and the importance of proper farm liability coverage. The episode concludes with encouraging community stories, reminding listeners that patience and mutual respect keep everyone safe on rural roads.

In Episode 23 of Back to Local AG, host Dorothy interviews Megan and Lewis of Done Roaming Ranch, a family and veteran-owned farm in Montvale, Bedford County. Lewis, a Marine veteran and former law enforcement officer, shares how decades of moving inspired the ranch's name. The couple discusses their commitment to humanely raised meats, pasture-raised poultry, maple and shagbark hickory syrups, chicken jerky, and unique offerings like turducken and dehydrated chicken feet for dogs. The episode concludes with announcements about the Bedford County Fair and local farmers markets.

In Episode 22 of Local AG, host Dorothy interviews Tim and Jenny, co-owners of New Magnolia Homestead in Thaxton, Virginia. Guided by "Faith, Family, Farm," their 12-acre homestead serves as a therapeutic foster care farm, where children heal through animal care and farm routines. Tim and Jenny raise heritage breeds, including rare Meishan hogs and Katahdin sheep, and operate a farm shop offering meats and handcrafted products. They also serve as international missionaries, supporting agricultural sustainability at deaf schools worldwide. Their mission centers on breaking cycles of trauma and poverty, both locally and globally.

In this episode of Local AG, host Melody interviews Aven, owner of Count Your Blessings Farm in Bedford County. Aven shares her journey from suburban life to raising registered dairy goats, pasture-raised hogs, and Angus cattle. She discusses goat breeds, kidding season, and crafting goat milk soaps, lotions, and tallow-based products. Aven also opens up about the farm's meaningful name, inspired by her daughter's rare genetic condition. The episode concludes with Bedford County Fair superintendent Mackenzie previewing the upcoming August fair, highlighting livestock shows, community events, and free family-friendly activities.

In this episode of Local AG, host Dorothy interviews Arden, owner of Great Day Gardens in Bedford County. Arden shares her farm's two-generation family history and her "beyond organic" philosophy, emphasizing hands-on, chemical-free practices and crop diversity. She discusses leading an all-female crew, empowering women in agriculture, and the benefits of seasonal eating. Arden also highlights her involvement in the Blue Ridge Farmer Collective and upcoming events, including a farm tour, a Mother's Day plant sale, and new farmers market locations all reflecting her dedication to sustainable farming and community education.

In this episode of the Local AG Podcast, host Melody Divers highlights key Bedford County agricultural events. Scott Baker discusses the Central Virginia Livestock Show, a 40-year tradition uniting 4-H and FFA youth from five counties to develop life skills through livestock care and exhibition. Carolyn Fellers introduces the Ken Palmer Memorial Scholarship, offering $500–$1,000 to Bedford County students aged 14–19 for college or trade school, with applications due April 30th. The episode also previews the Bedford County Fair, scheduled for August 21–23, and promotes upcoming local events including the Tulip Festival and Burgers and Bluegrass.

In this episode of Local Ag, host Melody interviews Jasmine and Joey of Huddleston Hog and Highland Homestead. Jasmine and Joey recount the devastating January 2026 fire that destroyed their barn but spared their animals, thanks to their quick actions and community support. They discuss rebuilding efforts, their farm’s philosophy of “farming is therapy,” and upcoming events like Spring Farm Fun Day. The episode highlights their resilience, commitment to sustainable farming, and the strong, supportive spirit of Bedford County’s agricultural community.