Growing the Future: Young Farmers & the Blue Ridge Bee Festival

In the 25th episode of Local AG, Melody Divers welcomes Josh Leamy, Chair of the Bedford County Young Farmers chapter, to discuss the program’s history, mission, and efforts to rebuild the local chapter. Open to individuals ages 18–35, the Young Farmers program focuses on leadership development, community involvement, and agricultural education. Josh also shares his background in cow-calf farming and encourages the next generation to get involved in agriculture.The episode also features Lee Wittekind from Bedford County Parks and Recreation, who previews the free, family-friendly Blue Ridge Bee Festival on September 12 at Falling Creek Park. The festival celebrates bees and other pollinators while bringing the community together for local food, educational activities, vendors, and more.