WYTHE COUNTY, Va. – The Wythe County Cannery will reopen for canning operations on Monday, July 27, after crews successfully installed a new boiler, restoring full service at the community facility just in time for the busy harvest season.
The reopening completes a project approved by the Board of Supervisors earlier this year to replace the cannery’s failed boiler and get operations back up and running ahead of the late summer and fall harvest.
Canning operations were suspended in October 2025 after the previous boiler failed beyond repair, though the facility remained open for meat processing while replacement efforts were underway. In February, the Wythe County Board of Supervisors approved the purchase and installation of a new boiler with support from a $50,000 Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Infrastructure Grant awarded through the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
"The reopening of the Wythe County Cannery is welcome news for the many families, farmers, and community organizations who rely on this valuable resource each year," said James D. Smith, chairman of the Wythe County Board of Supervisors. "We appreciate the partnership at the state and local level that made this project possible and are pleased to restore this important service to our community in time for the harvest season."
The cannery will operate by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 276-228-3421. If staff are unavailable, callers may leave a voicemail, and calls will be returned as soon as possible.
During July, the cannery will be open:
From August through November, operating days will expand to:
Mondays: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tuesdays: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Wednesdays: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fridays: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Appointment times, pickup times, operating days, and hours remain subject to change based on seasonal demand.
"The cannery has been an important part of Wythe County's agricultural heritage for generations," said Dr. Russell Street, Wythe County Public Schools superintendent. "We're excited to welcome the community back and remain committed to ensuring the facility continues serving local families and producers while we evaluate long-term opportunities for its future."
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Wythe County
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