Elizabethtown, NC — Working Lands Trust, a leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to protecting our working farms and forests, is joining forces with Bladen County FFA to launch an initiative aimed at conserving vital agricultural lands and rural communities. In support of this endeavor, the organizations will host Farm Revival 2023, a family-friendly evening filled with food, friends, prizes, and fellowship. This cornerstone community event will generate much-needed funds for Working Lands Trust’s mission to safeguard our agricultural heritage while also benefiting the Bladen County FFA.
North Carolina, whose number one economic industry is agriculture, faces a looming threat as it stands to lose approximately 20% of its 8 million acres of farmland to development by 2040. Currently, the state ranks second in the nation for agricultural land loss, surpassed only by Texas. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Working Lands Trust and Bladen County FFA are stepping up to protect and revitalize our farming legacy.
Reva Orr, West Bladen FFA Advisor, emphasized the importance of community support, saying, “Events like Farm Revival 2023 provide a platform for us to not only raise funds but also build relationships within the Bladen County agricultural community. These funds will empower our FFA chapters to participate in essential Career Development Events (CDEs) and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAE), equipping our students with the skills they need for a successful future in agriculture.”
Dr. Jason Atkinson, Bladen County Superintendent, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are proud to support this joint initiative between Working Lands Trust and Bladen County FFA. By investing in our agricultural youth and preserving our working lands, we are ensuring the prosperity of our rural communities for years to come.”
Farm Revival 2023 will take place on October 14, 2023, at Cape Fear Winery and Vineyards. Attendees can look forward to an evening of delicious food, exciting raffle and auction prizes, engaging conversations, and inspiring stories that highlight the importance of preserving our agricultural heritage. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit Working Lands Trust’s conservation efforts and the Bladen County FFA’s vital programs.
For more information about Farm Revival 2023 or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Reva Orr, West Bladen FFA Advisor, at 910-885-2505 or rjorr@bladen.k12.nc.us.
About Working Lands Trust:
Working Lands Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving working farms and forests. By collaborating with communities, landowners, and partners, Working Lands Trust strives to safeguard our agricultural heritage for future generations.
About Bladen County FFA:
Bladen County FFA aims to promote premier leadership, personal growth, and career success for its members through agricultural education.
About Author
