APRIL 2023 MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Hello, Everyone! Due to our Spring and Fall events being combined into a two-day event in the Fall, we held our annual membership meeting on a different date. Members met on April 13th at the Hilton Garden Inn in Harrisburg. We would like to thank everyone who attended for taking time out of their busy schedules to participate in the meeting. There was a delightful meal before the meeting with drinks and dessert. Thank you to Tess, our office admin, for organizing everything! We spent time talking and enjoying one another’s company before sitting down for our meeting.

The meeting was headed up by PDFA President, Josh Newton, who kept the meeting flowing smoothly. A lot of topics were discussed, and we welcomed a few guest speakers. The main discussion topics included genomic testing for GEVB and codon markers along with funding that is available to the cervid industry. Josh Newton and Lloyd Stoltzfus reported on working with the Department of Ag to secure funding for deer farmers in the upcoming year. There was lively discussion on important issues which members would like to discuss with lawmakers. We encourage all farms to participate in the programs and take full advantage of funding that is available. Guest Speakers presented on a few potential member benefits including solar energy and insurance options for your farm and livestock.

There was excited discussion around our Fall Event that will have a Stocker/Breeder Auction one day and a Benefit Auction the next day. Speakers will include Dr. Christopher Seabury and Dr. Davin Henderson. Our Fall Event will be held at the Spooky Nook Sports Complex in Manheim, PA on September

14th and 15th. The board will be making phone calls to gather up Stockers, Breeders and Semen as well as other benefit auction items. We look forward to your help and participation as we prepare for an exciting event. We ended the night with our PAC Fund ticket drawing. The gold drum was spun around and around, with our lobbyist, Kerry Lange, pulling the winning ticket for Todd Gehringer!

Congratulations to Todd on winning the 5.56 AR rifle and the 150” whitetail hunt! The whitetail hunt was donated by Shilo Hunting Ranch located in Fenelton, PA. We encourage all members to participate in our meetings and sale events as everyone is always welcome. Come out September 14th and 15th to show your support for the PDFA and place your vote for new board members.

We look forward to seeing you in September!

Written by Bruce Snyder, PDFA Board Member