Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget for Pennsylvania includes a $1 million investment towards the creation of an Organic Center for Excellence, aiming to support the growth of organic agriculture in the state.
- Governor Shapiro's Budget Prioritizes Organic Agriculture
- Pennsylvania's Thriving Organic Agriculture Sector
- Supporting Farmers and the Agriculture Industry
- Critical Investments in Pennsylvania's Agriculture Industry
- Bipartisan Support for Governor Shapiro's Agriculture Initiatives
- A Sustainable and Prosperous Future for Pennsylvania's Agriculture
Governor Shapiro’s Budget Prioritizes Organic Agriculture
Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget for Pennsylvania includes a significant investment of $1 million towards the creation of an Organic Center for Excellence. This move aims to further the state’s leadership in organic agriculture and support the growth of this sector within the Commonwealth.
( Credit to: Governor )
Highlighting the importance of Pennsylvania’s agriculture sector, Governor Shapiro and Department of Agriculture Acting Secretary Russell Redding recently toured Flinchbaugh’s Orchard and Farm Market in Hellam. The visit served as an opportunity to underscore the Governor’s commitment to making critical investments in the future of Pennsylvania agriculture.
( Credit to: Governor )
Pennsylvania’s Thriving Organic Agriculture Sector
Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry is a key economic driver, contributing $132 billion annually to the state’s economy and accounting for 1 in 10 jobs. The state is also ranked third in the nation for organic sales, with over $1 billion in sales last year and more than 1,100 certified organic farms.
( Credit to: Governor )
Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal reflects his belief in Pennsylvania’s potential to become the leading organic farming state in the nation. By allocating $1 million for the creation of an Organic Center of Excellence, the Governor aims to build upon the state’s existing organic leadership and provide farmers with the necessary resources and support to thrive.
Supporting Farmers and the Agriculture Industry
During the tour of Flinchbaugh’s Orchard and Farm Market, Acting Secretary Redding commended the Flinchbaugh family for their dedication to sustainable farming practices. The Flinchbaughs, who have owned the orchard for three generations, received the prestigious Leopold Conservation Award for their exceptional efforts in land, water, and wildlife habitat conservation.
Expressing gratitude for Governor Shapiro’s support, Mike Flinchbaugh, co-owner of Flinchbaugh’s Orchard & Farm Market, stated, “Thank you, Governor Shapiro, for giving us an opportunity to meet with you, talk about what the agriculture industry needs, and sharing with us how the items in your budget will support agriculture and give us what we need in terms of resources to move forward in Pennsylvania.”
The significance of the agriculture industry to Pennsylvania’s economy was also emphasized by York County Economic Alliance President & CEO, Kevin Schreiber. He noted that the Governor’s budget proposals, including financing for farms, access to capital resources, and investment in broadband infrastructure, are crucial for the competitiveness and well-being of both rural and urban areas in the Commonwealth.
Critical Investments in Pennsylvania’s Agriculture Industry
Governor Shapiro’s budget plan includes several other critical investments to support farmers and the agriculture industry. These include:
- $31 million to assist poultry farmers affected by the avian flu crisis in covering testing costs and receiving reimbursement.
- $13.8 million to fully fund the Pennsylvania Farm Bill for the fifth consecutive year.
- $2.5 million for the Farmland Preservation Program, ensuring resources for counties to produce food and contribute to the state’s economy.
- A $2 million investment in the Fresh Food Financing Initiative, improving access to locally grown and processed foods and promoting better health outcomes.
- $500,000 to establish a Center for Plant Excellence, expanding supply chain opportunities and supporting Pennsylvania’s diverse plant industries.
- A $200,000 investment in farmer mental health, providing support services such as a mental health hotline, specialized training, and outreach to the agricultural community.
Bipartisan Support for Governor Shapiro’s Agriculture Initiatives
Governor Shapiro’s proactive approach to addressing challenges faced by the agriculture industry, such as the avian flu crisis, has garnered bipartisan support. Senator Scott Martin acknowledged the administration’s responsiveness and commitment to dealing with such crises effectively. Representative Dan Moul expressed confidence in Governor Shapiro’s understanding of the agricultural community’s needs and highlighted his ability to collaborate with both Republicans and Democrats.
A Sustainable and Prosperous Future for Pennsylvania’s Agriculture
Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal reflects a forward-thinking approach that recognizes the importance of investing in Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry. By prioritizing organic agriculture and providing necessary resources and support, the Governor aims to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for farmers and the overall economy of the Commonwealth.