Netherlands-USA agriculture collaboration at Pennsylvania Farm Show
The Netherlands Agricultural Network in the USA & Canada had the privilege of participating in the International Delegation Networking Reception at the 108th annual Pennsylvania Farm Show in early January in Harrisburg. This collaboration exemplifies the joint efforts of the state of Pennsylvania, University Harrisburg, and the Netherlands, as they work together to foster more sustainable and food-secure communities.
Connecting our communities
We met with our US colleagues; officials and staff from over 35 countries around the world, state and federal government partners, and stakeholders from PA agriculture and related industries as we all embrace this year’s Farm Show theme, “Connecting Our Communities”. We were honored to receive warm welcome remarks from speakers, including Russell Redding, PA Secretary of Agriculture; Rick Siger, PA Secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development; and Abby Smith, President and CEO of Team PA.
Renowned as the largest indoor agricultural event in the world
Since colonial days, farming has remained one of Pennsylvania's top industries. In the mid-1600s, Pennsylvania's founder William Penn organized an agricultural show for farmers to gather and share their knowledge. Throughout the next several hundred years, the gatherings were held in various locations throughout the state and eventually migrated to the capitol of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg. Today, the Farm Show is the largest indoor agricultural event in the world that includes 24 acres of animals, organic crops and produce, educational encounters, food, family and fun.
A changing market
Pennsylvania consumers are increasingly interested in purchasing a greater quantity and variety of organic foods. By producing more organic products in-state, Pennsylvania farmers can meet the demands of this rapidly expanding market opportunity by diversifying their farm, generating greater income, and strengthening an already robust PA agriculture industry. With 1,125 certified organic farms and 104,805 acres of certified organic land in the commonwealth, PA farmers are well on their way to addressing this growing need!