News

Grants awarded to grow Pennsylvania meat-processing businesses

BROOKVILLE — Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding has announced nearly $600,000 in state funding for 10 small meat processors in eight Pennsylvania counties, helping businesses expand processing capacity, improve food and worker safety, and meet demand for local products. Redding also announced that applications are now open for the next round of the Very Small Meat and Poultry Processor Reimbursement Grant program. “Small processors are absolutely integral to Pennsylvania agriculture,” Redding said. “They create markets and lower transportation costs for farmers, keep food ...

Pennsylvania welcomes GreenTech North America

PHILADELPHIA — Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding welcomed agriculture leaders from around the world to Philadelphia for GreenTech North America 2026 in September, marking the first time the global organization GreenTech has hosted this conference in North America. Pennsylvania’s role as host reflects the Commonwealth’s leadership in agricultural innovation, powered by the Shapiro Administration’s statewide economic development strategy and focus on investing in the people, research, and technology needed to keep Pennsylvania agriculture a global leader. The conference, ...

USDA announces $86.6 million investment into the U.S. specialty crop industry

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is awarding $86.6 million in grant funding to support the specialty crop industry through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The program funds innovative projects designed to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. “I am proud to announce USDA will be investing more than $86 million across 56 states and territories through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. These 609 state projects represent the Trump Administration’s commitment to innovation, marketing, and research—ensuring specialty crop businesses are at ...

Bumbaugh-Lucas is new Penn State Extension agent

HUNTINGDON — Cassidy Bumbaugh-Lucas has joined Penn State Extension as the new County Extension Agent for Huntingdon and Mifflin Counties. Born and raised in Huntingdon County, she has a deep-rooted appreciation for the local agricultural community. Bumbaugh-Lucas graduated in 2023 with a ...

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