Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced the opening of the $1 million Farm Vitality Grant Program. One of the largest programs in Gov. Tom Wolf’s Pennsylvania Farm Bill, the Farm Vitality Program aims to enhance the long-term health and vitality of Pennsylvania’s farms.
“Pennsylvania’s more than 53,000 farms are the backbone of our reliable food system. They are the heart of Pennsylvania, just like this $1 million Farm Vitality Grant Program is the heart of the Pennsylvania Farm Bill,” said Redding. “Pennsylvania’s farm families need sound business plans, because their success is success for all of Pennsylvania.”
The 2020-21 Farm Vitality Grant Program will help fund professional services for those planning for the future of a farm. It aims to enhance the long-term health and vitality of Pennsylvania’s farms through sound business planning, efficient transitions of farm ownership, strategic farm expansion, diversification of agricultural production, and financial and technical expertise.
Farmers and prospective farmers are eligible for up to $7,500, which can cover no more than 75 percent of the project cost, through this program. Applications to the program will be accepted starting April 19. The program will remain open until all funds are exhausted.
According to Redding, Pennsylvania has long faced a looming agricultural workforce shortage, at one point estimating a deficit of 75,000 workers as farmers retire and new, technology-based positions become available. The Farm Vitality Grant Program is designed to address this workforce shortage and secure a stronger future for the industry. In fall 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistic Service released data noting that with 12,598 producers under age 35, Pennsylvania has the highest percentage of young producers in the nation.
“The Farm Vitality Grant Program is just one more tool in our toolbox making Pennsylvania’s leading industry accessible and attainable to new and beginning farmers,” said Redding. “Attracting a new generation to this industry and removing barriers to access is critical to ensuring a strong industry and food-secure Pennsylvania.”
Visit agriculture.pa.gov/pafarmbill for more information.
