By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding has announced $460,000 in PA Specialty Crop Block Grants to support five projects designed to strengthen the competitiveness and market potential of key specialty crops across the state.
The funding prioritizes fast-growing sectors such as hardwoods, honey, brewing grains, and hemp, recognizing their economic value and environmental benefits.
The grants are part of the 2026-27 Pennsylvania Farm Bill, signed by Governor Josh Shapiro, which provides $13.8 million for an eighth year of agricultural programs focused on business development, infrastructure improvements, workforce training, and innovation.
“These grants are carefully targeted investments in the future for Pennsylvania farmers and our state economy,” Secretary Redding said. “Pennsylvania hardwoods supply the world with high-quality building materials. Fiber hemp restores soil and is a growing source of sustainable construction materials, fabric, and plastics. Brewing grains are critical to our booming craft brewing industry.
“Through the PA Farm Bill, Agricultural Innovation Grants, and a wide range of investments, the Shapiro Administration is supporting innovations that are driving sustainable solutions to boost crop yields, protect crops from disease and pests, and reduce carbon emissions — while creating opportunities for farmers, families, and communities to thrive and grow in a greener world.”
Pennsylvania’s specialty crop investments support industries that play an important role in agriculture and the broader economy. Hardwood forests contribute billions of dollars annually while supporting manufacturing jobs.
Honeybees remain essential pollinators for many crops, and the state’s growing beekeeping industry continues to expand. Pennsylvania also ranks among the nation’s leaders in craft brewing, increasing demand for locally produced malting grains.
2026 PA Specialty Crop Block Grant recipients:
- Penn State University - Assessing Barley Root-Knot Nematode Impact on Pennsylvania’s Malting Industry ($80,000)
- Penn State University - Enhanced Pathogen Protection for Pennsylvania Specialty Crops and Markets ($60,000)
- Planet Bee Foundation - Sustainable Honey Path Phase II ($70,000)
- Rodale Institute - Cover Crops and Planting Strategies for Regenerative Hemp Production ($100,000)
- Team Pennsylvania Foundation - Supply and Demand Analysis of Pennsylvania Mass Timber ($150,000)
Photo Credit: pexels-aiselin82
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Government & Policy