Rooted in Central Virginia
We cultivate success on your farm.
We are practitioners, researchers, and consultants who use a holistic approach to integrating ecological principles with agricultural practices. Agroecology allows us to use knowledge of biological relationships to improve sustainable agriculture and its relationship with the surrounding landscape.
Our mission is to grow sustainable agriculture in Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic by supporting successful farmers, healthy landscapes, and good food systems.
Founder and Director
Steven Haring, PhD
Steve is the founder of Virginia Agroecology Services. He grew up in Northern Virginia where he became interested in food and the environment. Steve is an experienced researcher and educator with a passion for integrated pest management, crop diversity, and resilient food systems.
Prior to this endeavor, Steve spent over a decade as an agricultural researcher and extensionist. His PhD research at UC Davis brought integrated pest management principles to weeds in nut orchards, including a focus on cover crops. Stints at the University of Oregon, Virginia Tech, and the University of Minnesota gave Steve experience with annual and perennial cropping systems across the United States.
Learn more about his research at steveharing.com.
Our Goals
Useful Biodiversity
— For Resilient Ecosystems
Diverse systems are sustainable systems. Intentional & judicious integration of new species and management practices can help farms thrive.
Local Knowledge
— For Relevant and Customized Management Plans
One-size-fits-all solutions are rarely effective within complex systems. Tailor your plans to your unique farm situation.
Profitability
— For Farm Businesses in the Real World
Win-win solutions help farms & landscapes grow together. Sustainable ag needs economic sustainability.
Action
— For Tangible Improvements Out in the Field
Cut through the rhetoric of sustainable ag & start farming better. No workshops, webinars, or master classes here.
Optimization
— For Practical Solutions to Everyday Problems
Fine tune your day-to-day operations to spend less time troubleshooting & more time on what you love.
Collaboration
— For Growing Communities
It takes a village to support sustainable agriculture industries. Multiply your efforts by embracing teamwork & forging partnerships.