April 21, 2023 - Hellam, PA
Governor Josh Shapiro and Department of Agriculture Acting Secretary Russell Redding toured Flinchbaugh's Orchard and Farm Market in Hellam, highlighting the Governor's plans to make critical investments in the future of Pennsylvania agriculture through funding to protect valuable farmland, further agricultural emergency preparedness and response, and expand organic farming through the Commonwealth. Pennsylvania's agriculture sector is a major economic driver for the Commonwealth, contributing $132 billion a year to the economy and making up 1 in 10 jobs in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is also third in the nation for organic sales, with more than $1 billion in sales last year and more than 1,100 certified organic farms across the Commonwealth - and Governor Shapiro's budget proposed a $1 million investment for the creation of a new Organic Center of Excellence to build on Pennsylvania's history of organic leadership "There is a direct connection between our farmers' hard work and the food on our kitchen tables and in our stores - and my budget includes investments that will support Pennsylvania farmers all across the Commonwealth," said Governor Josh Shapiro. "I believe Pennsylvania can be the top organic farming state in the nation, but we need to give our farmers the resources and support they need to make it happen. It's our responsibility to make sure the next generation of Flinchbaughs have the opportunity to continue that legacy - and we can only do it by working together." Speakers Include:Mike Flinchbaugh - Owner, Flinchbaugh FarmsKevin Schreiber - President & CEO, York County Economic Alliance Russell Redding - Acting Secretary of PA Dept. of Agriculture Governor Josh Shaprio
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