Pennsylvania Farm Show Highlights Agriculture and Honors Veterans
In Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania Farm Show attracted a bustling crowd with its aromatic offerings from food vendors, blending with the earthy scent of hay. It was not just the food and livestock that drew attention; U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins made an appearance, accompanied by members of the state’s Republican congressional delegation.
During her visit, Rollins underscored the critical role Pennsylvania’s farmers play in sustaining the nation’s food supply. Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding engaged with Rollins on topics such as avian influenza and tariffs, which he noted pose significant challenges for farmers. “She said, ‘What’s on the minds of farmers?’” Redding recounted, adding, “And I said, ‘Listen, this tariff issue weighs large. And it shows up in different ways.’”
Redding also advocated for increased support for fruit and vegetable farmers, as well as the state’s overlooked hardwood industry, which he described as Pennsylvania’s top export. His discussions with Rollins highlighted the need for broader investment beyond the recent $11 billion bridge funding program’s focus on corn and soybean farmers.
Celebrating Military Service and Agricultural Innovation
Thursday’s festivities also included Military Appreciation Day, featuring a ceremony to honor veterans who have transitioned to farming. George Lake, a 30-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran and owner of Thistle Creek Farms, received recognition through the Pennsylvania Veteran Ag Entrepreneurship Award. Lake has transformed his family’s long-standing farm into a model of regenerative agriculture, producing premium grass-fed beef.
Lisa Davis, a visitor from New Ringgold, found the ceremony moving, stating, “The veterans, with the horses and everything, it was nice. It was tear-jerking.”
State officials announced that $300,000 would be available in the next round of the Veterans in Agriculture Grants Program. Interested applicants can submit their applications from January 30 to March 13, 2026. More information on the grant program can be found here.
Showcasing Traditional Crafts
Among the many attractions at the Farm Show, Liam McKay of Bloomsburg demonstrated his woodworking skills by hand-carving a spurtle from maple. McKay, who started his business 17 years ago, emphasized the importance of preserving traditional crafts. “As each generation passes, the knowledge that they have and share becomes kind of lost,” he explained.
John Paul Warren, a seasoned broom-maker from Gilbertsville, showcased his handcrafted corn brooms, noting the renewed interest in traditional cleaning tools. Warren, who has been making brooms for nearly 50 years, remarked, “Mainly because of the quality and what you can’t buy out there.” His dedication to his craft is evident as he travels across the state to share his expertise.
With an expected attendance of over 500,000 visitors throughout the week, the Pennsylvania Farm Show remains a vibrant celebration of agriculture, craftsmanship, and community.
