HARRISBURG, Pa. — Today, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding reminded Pennsylvanians that Fall is the perfect time to enjoy local food and make memories on the farm. From pumpkin patches to mazes of corn; we’re in peak season for agritourism.
“I encourage all Pennsylvanians to enjoy the bounty of agriculture and the joy of a fruitful harvest,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “Visiting a local pumpkin patch is not only a great opportunity to make memories with your loved ones, but also a way to support Pennsylvania’s hard-working farm families.”
Nationally, Pennsylvania ranks seventh in pumpkin production, with nearly 74 million pounds produced on more than 1,300 farms in 2018. With the help of the new PA Preferred website, Pennsylvanians can plan a visit to one of nearly 50 participating pick-your-own pumpkin locations around the state.
PA Preferred is a resource for Pennsylvanians to find locally grown and processed products; it also serves as a marketing opportunity for agriculture producers throughout the state. The PA Preferred logo assures consumers that what they are buying is produced in Pennsylvania by Pennsylvanians. The commonwealth is home to more than 7.7 million acres of farmland and over 53,000 farms, 97% of which are family-owned. Choosing to buy local directly impacts our farmers and Pennsylvania’s economy.
“Harvest season provides an opportunity to bridge the gap between those who consume and those who produce,” added Redding, “plan a day on the farm for an opportunity to thank those who provide for the commonwealth and beyond; you’ll come home with perfect Pennsylvania pumpkins and memories to last a lifetime.”
To find more ways to support Pennsylvania agriculture and buy local, visit papreferred.com, to learn more about the Department of Agriculture’s commitment to a thriving, sustainable agriculture and food industry, visit agriculture.pa.gov or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
–Shannon Powers, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture