Many of the Shenandoah Valley’s top growers are raising their fresh produce, grains, meats, and cheeses in Augusta County. In fact, Augusta County has more farm acreage than any other county in Virginia, and we’re the second-largest agricultural producer in the state. Our farms number 1,729 on 286,195 acres.
Augusta County ranks first in the state for production of beef cattle, sheep and lambs, and second in milk cow production. We have more than 30,000 head of beef cattle and more than 9,000 sheep and lambs. We’re also one of the state’s largest poultry producers. This means, if you’re looking for an authentic and abundant “where does my food come from?” experience…Augusta County delivers.
Meet our growers and taste their wares when you travel the Fields of Gold Farm Trail where more than 40 Augusta County producers can be found. Of note is Joel Salatin of Polyface Farms, the leader of the beyond organic movement. Salatin welcomes anyone at any time to visit his farm for an education in agriculture with true grass-fed rotation of livestock and free-range poultry.
All Augusta, All Outside
Farmer's Markets
From grass-fed beef and free-range poultry to all-things organic and sustainable, more than 1,700 farms dot Augusta County’s countryside. Our pastoral landscape, preserved by generations of farming and a rich agricultural heritage, forms the backdrop of our communities.
On-Farm Experiences
You don’t have to get your hands dirty, but you certainly can! Our farmers are welcoming and encourage you to visit the farm to see how the crops and animals are raised. This is a small sampling of the over 40 Augusta County farms open for touring. Check out Fields of Gold for further listings. For an artistic take on a farm tour, chart a course through our scenic backroads with the Augusta County Barn Quilt Project.