In a bid to further propel the state's agricultural sector into the future, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is pushing for an increase in funding for agricultural innovation during his visit to Sterman Masser Potato Farm in Schuylkill County. According to an announcement on the Pennsylvania Government website, Shapiro has proposed a $13 million boost to the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program for the 2025-26 budget. This would be a significant leap from the current $10 million dedicated to such initiatives.
The Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, a pioneer in the nation, saw the Department of Agriculture inundated with applications for projects demanding nearly $70 million in its first year, however, were capable of only funding $10 million worth of these innovative ventures. Shapiro's call for increased funds reflects a desire to meet the swelling demand and aid farmers who are keen to adopt the latest technologies and farming methods; this desire was encapsulated in his remarks during the visit as he pointed out the importance of building the future of American agriculture in Pennsylvania soil, as reported by the Pennsylvania Government.
The Shapiro Administration’s support for agriculture offers not just a plan for Pennsylvania, but a model for other states facing modern farming challenges. Governor Shapiro’s proposal, if approved, would show a strong commitment to preserving farming traditions while promoting sustainable and efficient methods for the future of food production.
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