The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture announced on June 6 the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening their partnership to support agricultural practices that benefit the environment, as well as expanding collaborative activities in regulatory programs, outreach, training, communication, and education.
EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey and Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding signed the agreement at Flinchbaugh’s Orchard and Farm Market in York County. The farm covers nearly 420 acres and prioritizes conservation efforts such as water conservation, limiting pesticide use, and employing efficient technology.
"Across the Commonwealth, producers are showing that profitability and clean water go hand in hand, and we’re proud to be their partner in agriculture," said EPA Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey. "Through this agreement, EPA and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture are accelerating producer access to resources and growing practices that build soil health, improve efficiency, protect waterways, and strengthen rural economies."
The five-year agreement highlights a shared commitment between EPA and Pennsylvania to promote sustainable farms that produce food for local communities while maintaining a clean environment. "Pennsylvania farmers prove every day that strong farms and a healthy environment go hand in hand," said Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. "Under Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration, we are focused on setting farmers up for success by investing in innovation, expanding partnerships that support sustainable farming and conservation efforts, and making sure producers have the tools they need to protect our natural resources. This renewed partnership with United States Environmental Protection Agency strengthens that commitment by aligning state and federal efforts to support farmers – furthering our progress to restore in the Chesapeake Bay and protect our local waterways."
The Memorandum outlines several goals: increasing state-federal collaboration through organized meetings; encouraging open discussions with the agriculture community via roundtables; recognizing environmental stewardship by sharing best practices; enhancing regulatory compliance through joint trainings; improving water quality; producing annual reports on achievements under the MOU; among others.
EPA's Mid-Atlantic Region serves Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and seven federally recognized Tribes. More information about this agreement is available according to the official roster page.
