PDA Roundup: Controlling Invasive Species in Pennsylvania

 

Invasive plants threaten the PA’s ag industry and everyone who depends on the food and economic support it provides.   Learn which plants are injurious to crops, livestock, and land, so YOU can help protect PA. Learn More About PA Invasives

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding highlighted the work of the Governor’s Invasive Species Council, a multi-agency panel that has been working to identify invasive species of concern that currently or could potentially threaten the commonwealth’s natural and agricultural resources and the industries they support. Learn More

Become aware of the more than 40 plants on the state’s noxious weed list. These plants can harm animals, people and land. They can’t be sold, grown or moved. If you see one for sale, don't bring it home! Learn More

Spotted Lanternfly: Invasive Species Alert - Backyard Ecology Podcast   The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive species of leafhopper (a type of insect) that was accidentally brought to the U.S. from Asia. It was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has spread to multiple states since then.   This episode of the Backyard Ecology podcast is all about the spotted lanternfly as Dana Rhodes, PA Dept. of Agriculture State Plant Regulatory Official, joined as one of the special guests.  Listen Now

Controlling Invasive Species in Pennsylvania - WITF Smart Talk   February 28 - March 4, 2022 is National Invasive Species Awareness Week. Invasive species are non-native plants, animals, pathogens, and microorganisms. They can be found on land or in water.   Once they become established in areas outside their normal habitat range, they are capable of causing severe damage, including harming the economy, the environment, or human health.   Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary for Plant Industry and Consumer Protection, Fred Strathmeyer, joined WITF Smart Talk to discuss invasive species. Listen Now

During National Invest In Veterans Week, we honor aspiring and established veteran business owners and their contributions to the economy. Steven and Paula Wuebells moved to Hookstown, Beaver County, in 2013. Taking advantage of being in the country to fulfill their common interest of animals, S & P Farm began! S & P Farm has seen cows and pigs over the years, but nearly 400 chickens run the show. The Wuebells sell eggs in local supermarkets in addition to supplying family and friends. Full Story Homegrown By Heroes

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding made an appearance before the Senate Appropriations Committee at the state budget hearing, stressing the interconnectedness of the agency’s challenges.  Learn More

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding welcomed Scholars from Oklahoma Ag Leadership Program and South Dakota Agriculture and Rural Leadership to Pennsylvania and Gettysburg. These two state leadership programs mirror Pennsylvania’s Rural-Urban Leadership Program (RULE) in developing rural and agricultural leaders.  Learn More

Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission Launches Integrity Hotline to Report Suspected Illegal, Unethical Behavior   The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission launched an Integrity Hotline for reporting suspected illegal or unethical behavior at Pennsylvania's six racetracks. Tips can be reported anonymously at any time by leaving a detailed message at (717) 787-1942.   Commission staff will follow up to determine whether official action by the commission or track management is warranted. If an issue is reported that would not fall under the commission's regulatory authority, staff will refer the call to the entity with jurisdiction. Read More

Gov. Wolf Continues Call on the General Assembly to Allocate Federal Funding to Support Pennsylvania   Governor Tom Wolf was joined by members of the General Assembly and community members at Nicole Taylor Boutique in Lancaster City to call on Pennsylvania’s General Assembly to take immediate action in allocating the $1.7 billion in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding to Pennsylvanians, specifically small business owners. Read More

Crop Insurance Available for Farmers   As every farmer knows, you can’t control the weather. But you can manage your risk! Learn about coverage options to safeguard your farm business.    Deadline: Enroll by March 15, 2022. Learn More

Dairy Excellence Grants Available   Are you looking to make an improvement to boost efficiency on your dairy operation? Whether you want to install a fan or sprinkler system in your freestall barn, upgrade your feed mixer in your feeding system, or replace your milker units with a more efficient system, consider applying for a Dairy Excellence Grant. The Center leverages funds provided through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to provide Dairy Excellence Grants to support improvement projects on the farm. If you are approved for the grant, you will receive a 50 percent match, up to a maximum matching level of $5,000.  Deadline: The application period will close on March 31, 2022. Learn More

Agricultural Energy Efficiency Rebate Program   The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has created a new agricultural energy efficiency rebate program to help agricultural producers in the Commonwealth reduce energy consumption on their farms through the use of energy efficient technologies. Commercial ag producers who conduct normal farming operations in Pennsylvania are eligible to apply (i.e. farm on 10 or more contiguous acres of land OR farm less than 10 acres but have an anticipated yearly gross income of at least $10,000).   Rebates are being offered for LED lighting, efficient milk pumping equipment, and efficient ventilation equipment.    Deadline: Applications are being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis as funding remains available or through June 30, 2022. Learn More