Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced $460,000 in PA Specialty Crop Block Grants awarded to five projects aimed at increasing competitiveness and market growth for high-priority Pennsylvania specialty crops. Hardwoods, honey, brewing grains, and hemp are among fast-growing products chosen as investment priorities for their potential to feed Pennsylvania’s economy and increase environmental sustainability.
The 2026-27 budget Governor Josh Shapiro signed this month funds an eighth year of PA Farm Bill grants and initiatives at $13.8 million. The nation’s first state-level Farm Bill is working to grow and protect Pennsylvania’s powerhouse agriculture industry by supporting business planning, infrastructure, and workforce development.
“These grants are carefully targeted investments in the future for Pennsylvania farmers and our state economy,” Secretary Redding said. “Pennsylvania hardwoods supply the world with high-quality building materials. Fiber hemp restores soil and is a growing source of sustainable construction materials, fabric, and plastics. Brewing grains are critical to our booming craft brewing industry.
“Through the PA Farm Bill, Agricultural Innovation Grants, and a wide range of investments, the Shapiro Administration is supporting innovations that are driving sustainable solutions to boost crop yields, protect crops from disease and pests, and reduce carbon emissions — while creating opportunities for farmers, families, and communities to thrive and grow in a greener world.”
Source : pa.gov