A $35,000 Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund Planning Grant has been awarded to Accomack and Northampton counties, along with the towns of Wachapreague, Parksley, and Onancock. The grant will support the Eastern Shore Hub Opportunity Assessment, which aims to evaluate sustainable agriculture and agritourism possibilities at a 35,000-square-foot facility in Accomack County. Part of the assessment includes a feasibility study for adding blue catfish processing capabilities.
Governor Glenn Youngkin stated, “Seafood and agriculture are critical economic drivers for the Eastern Shore and play an important role in Virginia’s economy. By developing a plan to expand the capabilities of an existing multi-use facility, with a focus on sustainable operations, we can strengthen economic development, encourage growth, create new jobs, increase visitation, and deliver lasting benefits for the surrounding region.”
Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr commented on the initiative: “Congratulations to Accomack County and all of the localities on receiving this Governor’s AFID Planning Grant to complete the Eastern Shore Hub Opportunity Assessment and accompanying feasibility study for a blue catfish processing facility. Creating a roadmap to rejuvenate a vacant property to support agriculture and seafood processing, with a focus on blue catfish, is great for the seafood industry and Virginia agriculture. It also lays the groundwork for a stronger local economy and improved way of life for Eastern Shore residents and visitors.”
The Accomack County Economic Development Authority (EDA) entered into an agreement in 2024 with Eastern Shore Hub, LLC to acquire what was formerly known as the Robert S. Bloxom Shore Agriculture Complex. The goal is to explore ways that could help transform it into a hub supporting seafood production—including international exports—agriculture businesses, and other local enterprises in both counties.
A specific part of this project involves studying whether blue catfish processing is feasible at this site. If implemented, such operations would help control populations of this invasive species in Chesapeake Bay while providing commercial opportunities.
The EDA is working together with its counterpart in Northampton County as well as Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement on funding and developing both the overall assessment and specific studies regarding blue catfish.
David Lumgair, Board Chairman of Accomack County Economic Development Authority said: “Thank you to the Commonwealth of Virginia, Northampton County, the towns of Wachapreague, Parksley, and Onancock, and Virginia Tech for partnering with Accomack County on this very important planning project as we work to invigorate the Eastern Shore Hub. We look forward to beginning this assessment that will guide efforts to build upon our agricultural strengths in the aquaculture and visitor services areas, as well as our proximity to population centers and ports along the Eastern seaboard.”
Senator Bill DeSteph remarked: “The AFID Planning Grant is an important step forward for the Eastern Shore and reflects the strength of collaboration among our localities, state partners, and economic development leaders. By building on the Shore’s deep roots in seafood, agriculture, and aquaculture, this assessment will help position the Eastern Shore as a driver of job creation, innovation, and long-term economic growth. I appreciate Governor Youngkin and Secretary Lohr for their continued commitment to rural Virginia and to ensuring communities like ours have the tools to succeed.”
Delegate Rob Bloxom added: “This is a great opportunity for the Eastern Shore to expand and enhance our worldwide reputation as a leader in seafood production. I want to thank Governor Youngkin for his leadership in providing grants like this one so the Shore can expand its offerings.”
In addition to state funding from AFID Planning Grant program—which requires matching contributions—the project will receive $10,000 cash from Accomack EDA plus $7,500 worth from neighboring communities’ contributions alongside further support via Virginia Tech’s Economic Development Administration University Center program.
The AFID Planning Grant program is managed by the Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (VDACS), which accepts applications throughout each year from interested parties who demonstrate clear needs supported by local governments or relevant community organizations.
