About the Secretariat
Our Mission and Vision
The newest secretariat in the Cabinet, the position of the Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry was created in 2004 to give a cabinet level voice to the number one industry in Virginia. Together, agriculture and forestry contribute more than $47 billion to Virginia's annual economy and provide over 15% of total jobs. Before 2004, Virginia was one of only five states that did not have a cabinet level position for these important industries.
The Secretariat is responsible for the Virginia Department of Forestry, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Virginia Agricultural Council, and the Virginia Marine Products Board, agencies that previously reported to the Secretary of Commerce and Trade.
The Secretariat of Agriculture and Forestry also provides policy guidance and direction to its agencies regarding the conservation, protection and development of Virginia’s agricultural and forest resources, as well as consumer protection.
Purpose
The Secretariat of Agriculture and Forestry:
- facilitates the growth and viability of the industry;
- provides a strategic balance in progressive economic development and utilization of natural resources; and
- positions the agriculture and forestry industries to be major contributors to the revitalization of Virginia’s rural economy.