Western Chester County Life|
Chester County Agriculture is a Growth Industry Chester County, one of the leading agricultural regions in the state, is at a crossroads. Farming, a cornerstone in the local economy, is facing challenges exacerbated by the pandemic including increasing labor shortages, lack of access to farmland for new and beginning farmers, increased development pressure and environmental fluctuations. At the same time, the industry is well positioned to take advantage of an increased interest in local food produc-
tion and agritourism, as well as a proximity to cutting-edge research institutions and population centers. In short, it is the perfect time for the industry to convene and chart a path forward. “Together Chester County agriculture is stronger than any one individual farm business or farmer,” says Chester County Ag Council Director Hillary Krummrich. “Our unique microclimate, world class soils and community of farm entrepreneurs put us in a unique position to not just endure the pandemic but to learn from it and build back stronger. But we know success won’t happen unless we are all working towards the same goals.” To that end, the Chester County Ag Task Force, which includes groups like the Chester County Ag Council (the administering agency), Chester County Economic Development Council, Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce, Penn State Extension, American Mushroom Institute, University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center, and the Chester County Visitors Bureau, worked together to create the county’s first ag economic development strategic plan (ag plan). The group selected ACDS, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in economic development, to guide the planning process. The effort was funded through a combination of county and partner support.
The Ag Plan “The purpose of this plan is to facilitate a successful transition to the future by supporting our local communities and letting agriculture entrepreneurs do what they do best: innovate,” says Krummrich. Although the need for the plan had already been in discussion for several years, the pandemic and resulting supply chain issues highlighted the urgency for a cohesive way forward for the industry. “Although recent events have made all of us appreciate Continued on Page 20
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——Spring/Summer
2022 • Volume 10——
