HARRISBURG, PA — The annual Pennsylvania Farm Show commenced on January 10, 2024, showcasing the state’s agricultural prowess through a series of events, grant announcements, and tributes. With a theme of “Growing a Nation,” the event highlighted the vital role agriculture plays in the local economy and community. State Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, alongside U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson and America250PA Executive Director Cassandra Coleman, opened the eight-day event, emphasizing that agriculture is built “from soil and sweat,” rather than mere fabric.
The inaugural ceremony featured a spectacular display, including a color guard from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Pennsylvania State Police mounted unit, and a performance by Carly Green, a 14-year-old winner of the Farm Show’s Star Spangled Sing-Off. A significant highlight was the unveiling of a Liberty Bell replica, commissioned by America250PA and decorated by Pittsburgh artist Cody Sabol. This bell is part of a series that celebrates the nation’s agricultural roots as the country approaches its 250th anniversary.
Youth Development and Workforce Initiatives
On January 12, the focus shifted to youth development and workforce opportunities. Redding announced a total of $600,345 in PA Farm Bill Agriculture & Youth Grants, which included 15 matching awards and 47 direct awards aimed at fostering career readiness in Pennsylvania’s substantial $132.5 billion agriculture sector. This announcement was made during a Career Expo that connected over 2,200 students with 48 agricultural businesses.
Among the grant recipients was Trellis for Tomorrow, a Chester County nonprofit that received $18,100 to enhance its garden and farm-based youth programs. The organization has provided hands-on work experiences for more than 1,600 youths over the past 22 years and distributed over 30,000 pounds of organic produce through its initiatives. The announcement also highlighted the Shapiro Administration’s development of 115 new apprenticeships since taking office, with significant funding allocated for career and technical education.
Innovation and Military Recognition
On January 14, Governor Josh Shapiro and Redding announced that applications for a second round of the Pennsylvania Agricultural Innovation Grant Program would open on February 2, 2024. This program, which has already funded 88 projects across 45 counties in its first round, focuses on enhancing technological adoption and sustainable practices within agriculture. The total funding available in the second round is $10 million.
The Farm Show also held a Military Appreciation Day on January 15, featuring events such as the Pennsylvania Veteran Ag Entrepreneurship Award. This award was given to George Lake, a 30-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and owner of Thistle Creek Farms. Lake was recognized for his commitment to building a regenerative livestock operation and mentoring fellow veterans in agriculture. Additionally, $300,000 will be made available in the upcoming round of the Veterans in Agriculture Grants Program.
As the event progressed, themes of legacy and land preservation took center stage. On January 16, Redding and Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis designated 11 farms as Bicentennial and Centennial farms, honoring families that have maintained their farms for over a century. The recognition of these farms ties into Pennsylvania’s longstanding commitment to farmland preservation, which has protected thousands of acres since 1988.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show has positioned itself as a pivotal event for the agricultural community, celebrating its heritage while investing in its future. For more information on youth opportunities and agricultural grants, interested parties can visit agriculture.pa.gov/kidsarethefuture and agriculture.pa.gov/pafarmbill.