STONEBORO, Pa. — Highlighting the connection between production agriculture and tourism as local economic drivers, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding visited the Great Stoneboro Fair in Stoneboro, Mercer County.
“Our fairs are the crossroads of agriculture and tourism,” Redding said. “Fairs give young and old, urban and rural, locals and out-of-staters a close-up view of the incredible diversity represented in Pennsylvania agriculture. Fairs stimulate the economy by supporting local businesses, and in the process, they strengthen the bonds of their communities.”
Pennsylvania is home to 109 agricultural and community fairs that showcase the commonwealth’s rich and varied agricultural traditions as well as current agricultural achievements.
Pennsylvania fairs attract more than 5.5 million visitors annually, employing nearly 6,600 people part-time and 1,700 full time, and contributing more than $126 million to the state’s economy. Statewide, fairs provide agritourism opportunities for communities, connecting participants with local farmers and producers, livestock, harness racing, agricultural vendors and businesses and family living opportunities.
In Gov. Wolf’s first year in office, Pennsylvania increased its support for fairs to $4 million — a $1 million increase that allowed for distribution of additional capital improvement grants for projects that improve the experience for fair visitors. Gov. Wolf has maintained that commitment in each year since.
The Great Stoneboro Fair celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2017. For the milestone, Redding presented a greeting from Gov. Wolf in which the governor recognized the fair’s contributions to farm, home, and community.
Redding also noted that the fairs would not be possible without the support and commitment of countless community volunteers. As an appreciation for their efforts, Redding presented a “Friend of the Fair” award honoring the life and service of longtime volunteer Roger Bollard as part of his tour. The award recognizes fair supporters and leaders, including volunteers, paid staff, and local businesses, for their outstanding contributions.
The Great Stoneboro Fair runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 4. For more information about the fair, visit stoneborofair.info.
For a complete listing of Pennsylvania fairs, including locations and dates, view the 2017 Pennsylvania Fair Guide at agriculture.pa.gov by searching “fair guide.” Share your Pennsylvania fair memories on social media with #PAFairs.
— Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
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