Program Information

The first grapes were introduced to this country by Spanish explorers to California nearly 300 years ago. Grapes have high nutritional value and make excellent snacks. Research has shown that eating grapes can help prevent cancer and is an excellent source of dietary fiber.

ABCs of Agriculture informs about Virginia's farming community and how it affects you. ABCs of Agriculture are produced by the Virginia Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) - an educational program which encourages and enhances agricultural literacy in Grades K-5 and 6-8.

Transcript

Hello, and welcome to the ABC’s of Agriculture! We’re here today to talk about the letter “G” for Grapes!

Virginia vineyards produced more than 4200 tons of grapes in 2000. That’s a whole lot of jams and jelly!

The first grapes were introduced in this country by Spanish explorers to California nearly 300 years ago. Commercial grape acreage in Virginia increased by about 70 percent between 1987 and 1997. The number of wineries in the state jumped from 35 to 50 in that same period.

Grapes have high nutritional value and make excellent snacks. Research has shown that eating grapes can help prevent cancer and is an excellent source of dietary fiber.

Grapes are grown throughout the Mid-Atlantic region in areas where there is less potential for damage from winter cold or spring frosts. Both table and wine varieties of grapes are grown in Virginia.

But, the best part about Virginia grapes are their taste! Sweet and juicy!

For the ABC’s of Agriculture, I’m Professor Brad! See you next time!

Virginia Standards