I am delighted to introduce you to the newest member of the Alliance team, Joe Moore, who will lead our local policy work in Augusta County, Staunton and Waynesboro.
Data consistently shows that farms and farmland are disappearing across our service area and there’s more and more pressure to develop in rural areas. Augusta County is no exception. Between the 2017 and 2022 Census of Agriculture, the county has lost 205 farms, a shocking 16% of its farmland. This trend is simply unsustainable if we want a future with thriving farms, healthy forests, and clean streams that support our communities.
This is why we are so grateful to have Joe join us in a full-time capacity. As a lifelong resident of Augusta County, Joe understands the challenges firsthand. He grew up on the Middle River in the same house he lives in now, and his deep conservation values, shaped by his experience in sustainable farming, water conservation, and renewable energy, make him a natural fit for this role.
It is the cumulative impact of local land use and budget decisions made at the planning commission, board of supervisors, and city councils that truly shape our future. Joe will be our dedicated eyes and ears at these meetings, tracking the details and reaching out to ensure our community’s voice is heard.
I’m also delighted to share that Nancy Sorrells is not going anywhere! She has transitioned into a Senior Community Advisor role, guiding Joe and the rest of our team on emerging issues across the region. We are so grateful to have her expertise as we build our capacity to work for the things we all care about.
I am confident that Joe is the right person to lead this next chapter of our work in Augusta, and I hope you have the opportunity to interact with him soon.