Governor Josh Shapiro and Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding visited the 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show to highlight the Shapiro Administration’s work to invest in and strengthen Pennsylvania’s agricultural sector. With over 53,000 farms supporting 600,000 jobs and contributing $132 billion annually, agriculture is central to our Commonwealth’s economy.
During Public Officials Day, Governor Shapiro shared key achievements from his first two years in office, emphasizing his Administration’s strategic initiatives to ensure Pennsylvania remains a national leader in agriculture. These efforts are focused on sustainable farming, technology adoption, farmland preservation, avian influenza mitigation, and support for organic farming.
Agriculture at the Heart of Economic Growth and Innovation
Governor Shapiro’s Economic Development Strategy(opens in a new tab) places agriculture at the forefront, recognizing its central role in the Commonwealth’s future. Since taking office, the Governor has prioritized funding for agricultural businesses and sustainable practices, ensuring Pennsylvania remains a leader in the sector.
A prime example of this commitment is the $10 million Agriculture Innovation Grant Program(opens in a new tab), the first of its kind in the nation. This program enables agricultural businesses to adopt new technologies, enhance conservation efforts, and implement renewable energy solutions, reinforcing Pennsylvania’s position as a leader in sustainable agricultural practices.
The Shapiro Administration has also invested in key agricultural projects, including $3 million in Folkland Foods(opens in a new tab) to expand organic potato farming and processing in Erie County, $1.5 million in Little Leaf Farms’ CEA campus(opens in a new tab) in Carbon County, $4 million in ByHeart’s expansion(opens in a new tab) of its baby formula production facility in Berks County, and $2 million for the construction of a poultry science center(opens in a new tab) at the Delaware Valley University in Bucks County.
The Shapiro Administration has focused on additional key initiatives, including farmland preservation, avian influenza mitigation, and support for organic farming – each aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector and promoting environmental stewardship and economic growth.
“As our farmers face increasing demands to feed a growing population while continuing their legacy of environmental stewardship, Governor Shapiro’s leadership and investments will ensure that Pennsylvania’s agricultural businesses remain strong and innovative,” said Secretary Redding.
Governor Shapiro’s Record of Delivering for Agriculture
Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has delivered strategic investments to support Pennsylvania's agricultural sector:
- Farmland Preservation: Continued Pennsylvania’s national leadership in farmland preservation to protect agricultural land for future generations, preserving 333 farms and over 27,500 acres.
- Hi-Path Avian Influenza Mitigation: Secured over $60 million to support poultry farmers recovering from outbreaks, including testing and loss reimbursements, and developed an aggressive and proactive surveillance testing system for poultry and dairy to help reduce the spread of the disease.
- Organic Farming: Established the Organic Center of Excellence with $1 million in funding to empower organic farmers and businesses and signed legislation creating a PA Preferred Organic brand.
- Fresh Food Financing Initiative: Invested $2 million to improve access to locally grown food, contributing to better health outcomes and supporting local economies.
- Animal Health: Launched a state-of-the-art animal health laboratory in western Pennsylvania to enhance biosecurity and provide rapid responses to disease outbreaks.
- PA Farm Bill: Fully funded the Pennsylvania Farm Bill with $13.8 million for the sixth consecutive year.
Governor Shapiro has also championed sustainable farming practices that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship:
- Supported the adoption of conservation techniques to protect soil, water, and air quality.
- Promoted practices to reduce nutrient runoff and improve water quality, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
- Expanded programs to help farmers implement precision agriculture and renewable energy solutions on their farms.
Celebrating Agriculture at the Pennsylvania Farm Show
The 2025 PA Farm Show, themed “Powering Pennsylvania,” runs from January 4 to 11 and showcases the diversity and strength of the state’s agricultural industry. As the nation’s largest indoor agriculture exposition, the event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to celebrate Pennsylvania’s farms, food, and innovative practices.
Governor Shapiro: Two Years of G-S-D
As Governor Shapiro marks two years in office, his Administration remains focused on advancing agriculture, sustainability, and economic growth. Through investments in innovation, environmental stewardship, and support for the agricultural community, the Shapiro Administration is committed to ensuring that Pennsylvania remains a national leader in agriculture.
Source : pa.gov