FAIRLEA, W.Va. — The State Fair of West Virginia in Greenbrier County is right around the corner and the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) is prepping to play a large role.
State Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt appeared on Wednesday’s 580-LIVE on 580-WCHS to speak about the event August 12 to 21 in Fairlea. He said there remains concern about the COVID-19 virus but the fair will be a safe environment.
“People are concerned about what is going on with COVID and all. Remember, most of the activities are outdoors. You can feel safe and come out to enjoy the fair,” Leonhardt said.
In 2020, COVID-19 forced the cancelation of the State Fair for the first time since World War II. Back this year, the WVDA will be hosting the West Virginia Grown Country Store at the Gus R. Douglas Agriculture Annex Building.
According to the WVDA, the store will be open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and feature more than 40 West Virginia vendors and their locally grown and produced products. In addition, the store will host product samplings, wine tastings and a maple cotton candy machine run by the West Virginia Maple Syrup Producers Association.
There is also livestock exhibition as the WVDA Animal Health staff are available, throughout the State Fair of West Virginia, to conduct entrance examinations of all animals for signs of contagious or communicable diseases. According to the WVDA, staff will ensure proper testing and paperwork procedures are met for out-of-state entrants. WVDA Animal Health will be available at their checkpoint trailer located near the livestock gate entrance.
There will also be a poultry building, information on the West Virginia Dairy Programs and hemp products. Produce Safety & West Virginia Farmers Markets Booth will also be hosted by the WVDA and open.
VIEW: WVDA 2021 State Fair Guide
Special events by the WVDA include Women in Agriculture Reception, August 15, at 11:30 a.m., Farm Heritage Award Luncheon, August 16, Noon, Governor’s Day, August 19, and Military Appreciation Day, August 19. There is a 15% discount to military personnel at WVDA Country Store.
Leonhardt said the fair is a lot of fun for the agriculture community.
“Come down, pet some of the animals, talk to the local farmers, walk through the barns that are open for people to see. It’s a great learning experience with so many opportunities,” he said.