Metzler’s Forest Products was among 88 cutting-edge solutions and technologies in 45 counties to win money from Governor Shapiro’s first-in-the-nation Agricultural Innovation Grant.

The grant, totaled at $10 million, holds the purpose of “(continuing) Pennsylvania’s legacy as a national leader in Agriculture;” Metzler’s won $550,000.

“With this grant, we are going to take steps to increase our production of biochar, create new product lines, and improve our energy efficiency, allowing us to reduce waste and increase utilization of forest resources,” said Nate Metzler, general manager of Metzler Forest Products.

Founded in 1986, Metzler exemplifies innovation in agriculture and forestry, offering products from wood chips to biochar. As one of the few U.S. producers of biochar — created by heating organic material in a low-oxygen environment — Metzler is driving sustainable solutions that improve soil health, boost crop yields, and reduce carbon emissions, making it a valuable resource for farmers.

Sentinel photo by LV SUYDAM
(From left) Nate Metzler of Metzler Forest Products introduces Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro at Tuesday’s press conference.

“As we look forward to the future, we’re excited about the possibilities ahead, we’re thankful to Governor Shapiro and his administration for their support, and the Ag innovations program,” Metzler added. “This grant not only supports the growth of our business but also supports sustainable forest management practices and creates good paying, family sustaining jobs right here in Pennsylvania.”

Gov. Shapiro was joined by Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding, as well as locally elected officials, for a private tour of the Biochar building, followed by a press conference highlighting the Agricultural Innovation Grant.

“I wanted to be here today because forestry is a critically important part of our economy in Pennsylvania, and it’s something we are really focused on making sure we invest in and pay attention to,” said Governor Shapiro.

Since taking office, the Governor has placed significant emphasis on supporting and growing Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry — bringing Democrats and Republicans together to invest in new technologies, strengthen supply chains, and drive economic growth for farmers and producers.

The Shapiro Administration’s agricultural innovation investments come just as new federal tariff policies, set forth by the Trump administration, create significant challenges for Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry by imposing a tax that increases costs and creates uncertainty for farmers, businesses, and consumers.

Sentinel photo by LV SUYDAM
(From left) Mifflin County Commissioner Kevin Kodish shakes hands with Governor Shapiro at Tuesday’s press conference.

Governor Shapiro expressed concern with these tariffs as Pennsylvania is the top exporter of hardwoods and forest products in the entire country, saying we “need to protect that marketplace.”

“I’m not sure why the president wants to do this to our ag sector, but here in Pennsylvania, I want you to know, we (care) about agriculture; we (care) about our dairy farmers, our apple growers, our potato producers,” said Shapiro. “And, we, of course, (care) about our forest products.”

Nick Gilson, founder and CEO of Gilson Snow, also expressed concern regarding the tariffs. Gilson stated that he “appreciates Governor Shapiro’s administration’s commitments to Pennsylvania working families and businesses.”

“We share the goal of supporting and growing a thriving manufacturing ecosystem in our state, and that means looking closely at how these policies, including trade policy, affect businesses on the ground,” said Gilson.

Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding also expressed gratitude for the innovation grant.

Sentinel photo by LV SUYDAM
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visits Metzler Forest Products in Reedsville to discuss the nation’s first Agricultural Innovation Grant.

“Innovation, most importantly, pushes us forward, and we need that,” said Redding. “So we are proud of the innovation fund and proud of the companies who participated.”

Executive Director of the Keystone Wood Products Association Stephanie Phillips-Taggart agreed, “It was once said that innovation distinguishes a leader and a follower, with forward thinking companies embracing opportunities to implement agricultural technologies while prioritizing environmental stewardship, the industry will remain a leader for years to come.”

Mifflin County Commissioners Noah Wise, Rob Postal, and Kevin Kodish were also present at Tuesday’s event to express gratitude.

“Farming has always been vitally important to our county and its citizens. In these challenging and uncertain times, it is great to know that we have a governor like Josh Shapiro who is willing to partner with businesses and provide grants that foster economic growth while supporting environmental sustainability,” said Kevin Kodish, Mifflin County Commissioner.

Governor Shapiro’s leadership aims to ensure that Pennsylvania remains a national leader in agriculture by supporting farmers, growing rural economies, and strengthening the food supply chain for generations to come.