Governor Abigail Spanberger announced a state of emergency for Virginia on September 16, 2026, citing a severe shortage of hay that is threatening the state’s agricultural sector. The declaration comes as drought conditions across the Commonwealth have sharply reduced hay yields, leaving many farms without sufficient feed for livestock.
The drought, which has persisted through the spring and summer months, has limited the growth of pasture and hay fields that normally supply the region’s cattle, horses and other grazing animals. Farmers report that the reduced harvest has left them scrambling for alternatives, and the shortage is expected to affect feed costs and livestock health if not addressed promptly.
By invoking emergency powers, the governor’s office can coordinate a more rapid response among state agencies, including the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Virginia Emergency Management Agency, and local extension services. The declaration enables the state to mobilize resources, streamline assistance programs, and facilitate the movement of hay from less‑affected areas to regions experiencing the greatest deficits.
State officials indicated that the emergency status is intended to mitigate the immediate impact on farms while longer‑term water conservation and drought‑relief measures are evaluated. The administration plans to work with agricultural producers to identify short‑term solutions, such as temporary feed imports or the use of alternative forages, and to monitor weather patterns that could further affect crop production.
The governor’s emergency declaration underscores the vulnerability of Virginia’s agricultural economy to prolonged dry spells. Authorities will continue to assess the situation and provide updates as conditions evolve, aiming to safeguard the livelihood of farmers and the stability of the state’s food supply chain.