An association of poultry growers in Virginia and West Virginia is looking for new members in an effort to gain more clout with companies and a larger say in regulation of the industry, reports Daily Press.

President Mike Weaver of Fort Seybert, West Virginia, says the Contract Poultry Growers Association of the Virginias has about 100 members, mostly from eastern West Virginia, but more are needed.

Mr Weaver says about 1,400 growers work in the two states.

The association was formed two years ago in response to increasing propane costs.

Martin French, vice president of the association for Virginia, says the group's scope has broadened as growers seek to negotiate prices with companies and have a say in legislation and regulations affecting the industry.