Please join the U.S. Grains Council in welcoming its newest member the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS).

Established in 1877, VDACS is responsible for more than 60 laws and more than 70 regulations relating to consumer protection and the promotion of agriculture. VDACS is headquartered in Richmond, Va., with five regional diagnostic animal health laboratories in Warrenton, Lynchburg, Ivor, Harrisonburg and Wytheville and an international office in Hong Kong. It also utilizes representatives in Asia, Europe, India and Latin America to promote Virginia agricultural products in these key export markets.

The mission of the organization is to promote the economic growth and development of Virginia agriculture, provide consumer protection and encourage environmental stewardship. The agency works in cooperation with Virginia State University, Virginia Tech and the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service on research, education and marketing projects.