Tidewater Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting a cost-share informational breakfast at Nick’s Spaghetti & Steak House in Shacklefords, VA on March 19, 2026, at 8:30 am. The Tidewater District administers the Virginia Agricultural Best Management Cost Share Program (VACS) including the Whole Farm Approach (WFA) for agricultural producers in Gloucester, Mathews, and Middlesex Counties. Both program’s goals are to improve water quality in the state’s streams, rivers, and Chesapeake Bay. These programs offer cost-share assistance as an incentive to construct or implement Best Management Practices (BMPs). These voluntary BMPs reduce non-point source pollution and improve soil health and water quality. In addition to the VACS program information, we will hear from Robert Harper with the Virginia Farm Bureau Grain Market Division, William Thomas of Colonial Farm Credit, Leslie Anne Hammond the York River Steward and other partner agency updates. This event is open to the public and is a great opportunity for land owners, county leaders, and other stakeholders in the community to learn about the conservation practices and educational outreach being offered and implemented in our area.

RSVP is requested by March 13th by calling (804) 699-3482 or emailing lcalhoun@tidewaterswcd.org.