Delegates Tour Local Agriculture Retailer

Thursday, October 3, 2024, Congressman Morgan Griffith (9th District, Virginia) and Virginia Delegate Christian Obenshain (41st District) toured the Southern States Cooperative retail location in Christiansburg, Virginia to see first-hand the impact of agriculture retailers on Christiansburg, the state of Virginia, and the nation.

During the site visit, they met with employees and local business leaders to discuss the benefits of agricultural retailers and the role that Southern States is playing in the increase of efficiency in the agriculture industry.

“We appreciate the time that Congressman Griffith and Delegate Obenshain took to learn about our business and the challenges we face as an agricultural retailer in today’s environment,” said Steve Becraft, Southern States General Manager and CEO, “Their commitment to agriculture in Virginia is crucial to our cooperative members and customers. However, I was most grateful for the time they spent to listen to concerns and support those impacted by the recent floods.”

Southern States in Christiansburg serves the feed, farm supply, and energy needs of customers in Southwest Virginia with 10 full time and two seasonal employees.

Through the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA), Southern States Cooperative is working on critical issues, educating legislators, and collaborating with regulatory officials on important issues affecting the agriculture industry. Mr. Becraft currently serves on the ARA Board of Directors.