Pennsylvania Ag Connection - Board Appointed to New Pennsylvania Apple Program

Pennsylvania Ag News Headlines

Board Appointed to New Pennsylvania Apple Program
Pennsylvania Ag Connection - 06/22/2017

The state's Department of Agriculture announced that board members have been appointed to lead the new Pennsylvania Apple Program, which replaced the previous Pennsylvania Apple Marketing Program (PAMP). That program expired on May 26 after state apple growers voted last fall to discontinue the program.

In April, growers with 500 or more apple trees voted to launch a new program, which became effective on May 27.

"Apples are a major agricultural commodity in Pennsylvania, which ranks fourth in national production," said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. "We're eager to engage with the new Pennsylvania Apple Program and its recently elected leadership team. This new program provides a solid foundation for us to continue to build a strong and viable future for the commonwealth's apple industry, which contributes approximately $80 million annually to the state's economy."

The new apple program is comprised of seven board members, including the Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture or an appointed designee. Apple growers appointed to the board by Secretary Redding include:

- Mark Boyer, Ridgetop Orchards, LLC, Fishertown

- Gary Faulkner, Godfrey Run Farm Market and Cider Mill, Lake City

- Tom Maas, Cherry Hill Orchards, Lancaster

- Ellie Hollabaugh Vranich, Hollabaugh Brothers, Inc., Biglerville

- Carolyn McQuiston, Dawson Orchards, Enon Valley

- David Peters, Peters' Orchards, Gardners

"We thank these industry leaders for agreeing to serve the new Pennsylvania Apple Program and for their commitment to continuous improvement," Redding added. "Research is such an important resource as we work together to continue Pennsylvania's prominent role in this national and international marketplace."

Under the new program, apple growers will be assessed $0.05 per bushel for fresh apples and $0.01 per bushel for processed apples. Unlike the PAMP, the Pennsylvania Apple Program does not provide funding for marketing activities, but it does provide research grants and covers membership in the U.S. Apple Association, which provides legislative and communications support.

Other Pennsylvania Headlines