Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets
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The Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets (VAAFM) or sometimes colloquially the agriculture department, is a Vermont executive agency (or cabinet agency). Its purpose is to develop and execute policy on farming, agriculture, food, and promoting and protecting the Vermont brand as related to food in the worldwide market. It aims to meet the needs of dairy farmers, beekeepers, orchardists, maple sugarmakers, and related industries. The VAAFM promotes agricultural trade and production, work to assure food safety, protect natural resources, and preserve the culture of rural communities. Roger Allbee of Townshend is the agency's current secretary.
[edit] Divisions
The VAAFM is organized into four divisions. The Administration Division oversees and coordinates agency policy and promotes interests of consumers and producers. The Agricultural Development Division provides a role in developing local, regional, national and global markets for Vermont's agricultural products. The Division of Agricultural Resource Management and Environmental Stewardship works to regulates pesticides, feed, seed and fertilizers. The division administers Vermont's agricultural water quality programs and enforcement of environemtal and safety laws. The Division of Food Safety and Consumer Protection is organized into the following sections providing oversight in the areas of: livestock heath, consumer safety and protection, dairy inspection, and meat inspection.
[edit] Standards of quality
One role of the agency is the regulation and maintenance of quality. This goes hand in hand with the management of the Vermont brand as a reliable source of quality. While meeting all United States Department of Agriculture standards, Vermont exceeds those standards in the areas of dairy and maple products. Maple syrup produced in Vermont has a higher percentage of maple solids reflected in a higher weight per gallon than maple syrup from other U.S. states or Canada. The butter fat content of Vermont butter exceeds USDA minimums and equals those of the French Ministère de l'Agriculture et de la Pêche (Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries), the highest standards set by a national government.
Vermont grown and produced agricultural products meeting the agency's standards may display the Vermont Seal of Quality in its packaging and promotion.
