American Farmland Trust (AFT) is working to balance solar energy development with agricultural land preservation through its Smart Solar initiative. In 2024, AFT conducted a survey of 240 Virginia farmers and landowners across 78 counties to understand their concerns and priorities regarding solar energy. The survey revealed diverse opinions, ranging from support to hesitation, with respondents stressing the importance of community engagement and consideration of scale, location, and rural life. AFT’s survey results will guide future efforts to protect farmland, support farm viability, and guide solar development, helping shape informed decisions for Virginia’s agricultural and solar future.