By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, and Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger recently introduced the state's first 10-year Strategic Plan for Agriculture at a dairy farm in Chester County.
The initiative aims to build on the administration's agricultural investments and strengthen the state's food and farming industries over the next decade.
The strategic plan identifies five major priorities: developing careers in agriculture and food production, encouraging modernization and resilience, expanding market opportunities, improving farmland access and responsible land-use planning, and increasing farmers' access to agricultural resources and services.
The plan was shaped by industry workgroups, economic research, regional listening sessions, and public feedback. It reflects the needs and long-term goals of Pennsylvania's agricultural community while recognizing progress made across the industry.
“Pennsylvania Farm Bureau is thankful that Gov. Josh Shapiro has taken the steps to ensure that agriculture is a top priority in our state with the unveiling of the strategic plan for agriculture,” said Pennsylvania Farm Bureau President Tommy Nagle.
“We are grateful to have been chosen to partner with Gov. Shapiro, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and other industry stakeholders to be a part of ongoing conversations regarding the future of agriculture in Pennsylvania. We look forward to working together to make sure that our farmers — regardless of commodity — can thrive for years to come.”
With the plan now introduced, the administration will use it to guide future policy decisions, direct investments, assess existing programs, and identify additional ways to support agricultural businesses and farmers.
Pennsylvania agriculture plays a significant role in the state's economy, representing more than 48,800 farms, approximately 600,000 jobs, and over $153 billion in annual economic activity.
Building on Pennsylvania's Agricultural Investments
The strategic plan builds on several initiatives launched under Governor Shapiro's administration to strengthen the state's agricultural sector.
Key investments include $30 million through the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, which helps farmers adopt technologies that improve efficiency, address labor challenges, and support business growth.
The administration has also invested in expanding the Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System through the new Keystone Lab at Penn State Beaver and established five agricultural apprenticeship programs to develop the future workforce.
Additionally, Pennsylvania allocates $13.8 million annually through the PA Farm Bill to support agricultural education, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements.
The state has permanently protected 6,781 farms covering 671,082 acres across 58 counties. Another $4.1 million is invested annually in agricultural Centers of Excellence supporting plant, beef, poultry and livestock, and dairy industries.
The administration also established a $10 million Fruit Grower Freeze Disaster Relief Grant program to assist producers affected by the devastating April 2026 freeze.
Together, these efforts aim to create a more resilient, competitive, and sustainable agricultural industry throughout Pennsylvania.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy, Livestock, Dairy Cattle