By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding recently visited Way Fruit Farm in Centre County to meet with fruit growers dealing with severe crop losses caused by the late-April freeze that impacted orchards across the state.
During the visit, Redding highlighted the newly approved 2026-27 state budget, signed by Governor Josh Shapiro, which includes $10 million for the Freeze Disaster Assistance Recovery Grant Program.
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is designing the grant program to provide targeted financial assistance to growers most affected by the freeze, helping farms recover from one of the most damaging weather events in recent years.
“This funding is an important step toward helping Pennsylvania’s fruit growers recover from one of the most damaging spring freezes in recent memory,” Secretary Redding said.
“Governor Shapiro and the General Assembly recognized the urgent need to support an industry that is vital to our economy and our communities. Combined with federal assistance we’ve fought to secure, we’re helping growers rebuild while continuing to advocate for additional support where it’s needed.”
The state initiative complements federal USDA assistance that became available after the Shapiro Administration sought emergency support earlier this year. Growers are also encouraged to continue documenting freeze-related losses with their local USDA Farm Service Agency offices.
“When disaster strikes, it’s easy for farmers to feel like they’re facing it alone,” said Jason Coopey, owner of Way Fruit Farm.
“Programs like this send a powerful message that our communities and our government recognize the vital role farmers play in feeding America. Knowing that support is there makes a real difference as we work to recover and keep our farms going. We are celebrating 200 years. We want to make more.”
Secretary Redding also renewed calls for additional federal action, including a statewide USDA disaster declaration, expanded crop insurance flexibility for all specialty crops, insurance options for processors and packers, and federal block grants to support customized state relief efforts.
The 2026-27 budget further strengthens Pennsylvania agriculture with $5 million to expand Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza education, $10 million for the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, and $13.8 million to fully fund the Pennsylvania Farm Bill, reinforcing long-term investments in farming, food security, infrastructure, workforce development, and agricultural resilience.
Photo Credit: getty-images-eric-ferguson
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Government & Policy