By Blake Jackson
Ernie Mattiuz, a third-generation farmer from Kersey, received the 2023 Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award from the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) during its 73rd annual meeting in Hershey. This award recognizes individuals whose dedicated service significantly contributes to the advancement of Pennsylvania agriculture.
As the owner-operator of Earleyville Farm, Mattiuz initiated the farm as a cow-calf operation at 18, later transitioning to pork and then grains. His commitment to agriculture was acknowledged in 2023 when Earleyville Farm was honored as a Century Farm.
Having served over 35 years in the Elk County Farm Bureau and eight years on PFB's State Board of Directors, Mattiuz is passionate about educating the next generation. He played a pivotal role in bringing the Pennsylvania Friends of Agriculture Foundation’s Mobile Education Ag Science Labs to local schools, advocating for agricultural education.
Mattiuz leveraged his Farm Bureau tenure to establish key relationships with legislators, resulting in positive changes. His advocacy led to a tax exemption for loggers and improvements to the Pennsylvania Game Commission's Red Tag law through his role as chair of PFB's Wildlife and Fisheries Committee.
PFB President Chris Hoffman praised Mattiuz's leadership in promoting legislative needs and educating the public about farmers' requirements. Mattiuz actively participates in Penn State Board of Trustees elections, advocating for Penn State Extension programs.
The award ceremony took place during PFB's annual meeting, where farmers statewide convened to set policies on issues impacting farm and rural families. Hoffman emphasized the importance of promoting Pennsylvania as an exceptional farming destination with abundant resources in land, climate, and market accessibility.
Ernie Mattiuz's longstanding dedication and impactful contributions to agriculture make him a deserving recipient of the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award, recognizing his commitment to advancing the agriculture sector in Pennsylvania.
Photo Credit: pa-farm-bureau
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business