NEWPORT, Pa. — Highlighting the connection between production agriculture and tourism as local economic drivers, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding visited the Perry County Community Fair in Newport, Perry 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.
Gov. Wolf and the legislature provided a $1 million increase in funding to fairs in the 2015-16 budget, providing fairs with capital improvement grants to improve the experience for their visitors. Governor Wolf maintained that commitment in the state’s 2016-17 and 2017-18 budgets, allocating $4 million that will continue to support and improve Pennsylvania’s celebrations of community and agriculture.
As part of Redding’s visit he learned about the county’s historical marker program, part of its build-up to the 200th anniversary of Perry County in 2020. The county historical society placed three permanent agricultural history displays at the fairgrounds that showcase the role of agriculture in the county’s development.
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 as a part of his tour. The award recognizes fair supporters and leaders, including volunteers, paid staff, and local businesses, for their outstanding contributions.
The fair’s board of directors nominated Edgar Byers of Millerstown, Perry County, as its 2017 Friend of the Fair. Part of a family committed to the fair since it was revived in 1971, Byers oversees parking operations during the fair and, as a member of the fair board since 1993, volunteers before and after the fair to ensure its success. Redding recognized his service to the fair and acknowledged his contributions as a grange member, church member and farmer.
“Our fairs are successful because of dedicated community members like Edgar Byers,” Redding said. “When hardworking men and women volunteer to make their fair succeed, the entire community benefits. Ed and all others deserve our thanks for their tireless devotion.”
The Perry County Community Fair was Aug. 13-19. For more information about the fair, visit www.pecofair.org.
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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