Governor Shapiro and Secretary Redding Celebrate Preservation of 650,000 Acres of Pennsylvania Farmland

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will visit the Talview Dairy Farm to commemorate the preservation of 650,000 acres of farmland for agricultural use throughout the state, the most preserved farmland in the country. This achievement is part of the governor's efforts to support the agriculture sector, which contributes significantly to the state's economy. Agriculture is a vital component of Pennsylvania's economy, generating $132 billion and supporting nearly 600,000 jobs. Governor Shapiro's administration has provided historic support to the agriculture sector, cutting red tape and modernizing government to aid farms and agricultural businesses.

Key Takeaways:

• Governor Josh Shapiro and Secretary Russell Redding will celebrate the preservation of 650,000 acres of farmland, the most preserved farmland in the country, at the Talview Dairy Farm on October 15, 2025.
• The preservation of farmland is part of the governor's efforts to support the agriculture sector, which contributes $132 billion to the Pennsylvania economy and supports nearly 600,000 jobs.
• Agriculture is a major economic driver for Pennsylvania, accounting for nearly 18% of the state's GDP.
• Governor Shapiro's administration has delivered historic support to the agriculture sector, cutting red tape and modernizing government to aid farms and agricultural businesses.
• The preservation of farmland is a collaborative effort between the state government, agricultural businesses, and conservation organizations.
• Brent Copenhaver, the owner of Talview Dairy Farm, will be in attendance to discuss the impact of farmland preservation on his business.
• Stephanie Zimmerman, Director of the PA Bureau of Farmland Preservation, will also be present to highlight the importance of farmland preservation in maintaining agricultural productivity.
• Paul Bametzreider, Chairman of the Lebanon Co. Preservation Board, will share insights on the local efforts to preserve open spaces and farmland in Lebanon County.

Statistics:

• The preservation of 650,000 acres of farmland has protected the livelihoods of thousands of Pennsylvania farmers and agricultural workers.
• The agriculture sector contributes $132 billion to the Pennsylvania economy, accounting for nearly 18% of the state's GDP.
• Agriculture supports nearly 600,000 jobs in Pennsylvania, making it a significant source of employment and economic growth.
• The preservation of farmland is expected to continue under Governor Shapiro's administration, building on the historic support provided to the agriculture sector.
• The Talview Dairy Farm has benefited from the preservation efforts, with Brent Copenhaver noting the importance of preserved farmland for his business's continued success.

Sources:

• Governor Shapiro and Secretary Redding Celebrate Preservation of 650,000 Acres of Pennsylvania Farmland
• PA Department of Agriculture
• Talview Dairy Farm
• PA Bureau of Farmland Preservation
• Lebanon Co. Preservation Board