Governor Spanberger Declares State of Emergency Over Virginia Hay Shortage

Governor Abigail Spanberger declared a state of emergency on September 16, 2026, to assist Virginia farmers facing a critical statewide hay shortage. A prolonged drought resulted in a shortfall of approximately 500,000 tons, or 1 billion pounds, of hay. Statewide yield losses averaged 35%, though some regions reported losses as high as 70%.

Under Executive Order 21, the state activated price gouging protections and unlocked emergency funding to protect livestock health and the agricultural economy before winter. A central component of the order is a temporary over-width exemption waiver for carriers transporting essential hay. These waivers, designed to reduce trucking costs and accelerate delivery, will be in effect for 30 days starting October 1, 2026.

The overall state of emergency remains in force for 45 days. The measure received support from state legislators and agricultural leaders, including the Virginia Farm Bureau, who noted that some producers had already been forced to use winter feed stocks months ahead of schedule.