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Pennsylvania's first-ever Strategic Plan for Agriculture was unveiled Friday at Milky Way Farm in Chester Springs, and I can't think of a more fitting place for such an important announcement.

Recognized as a Pennsylvania Century Farm in 2025, Milky Way Farm has been operated by the Matthews family since 1902 and has roots dating back to the 1760s.

Now led by the fourth generation of the Matthews family, the farm exemplifies the stewardship, resilience, and commitment that have made agriculture such an important part of Chester County and Pennsylvania's story.

One of the most important themes in the new Strategic Plan is supporting the next generation of farmers.

Pennsylvania currently leads the nation in farmers under the age of 35, yet more than half of our agricultural producers are over 55, highlighting the need for succession planning, mentorship, and opportunities to help family farms continue thriving across generations.

Not only is agriculture Chester County's leading industry, but it is also Pennsylvania's top industry and a cornerstone of our Commonwealth's economy.

This strategic plan creates a roadmap for strengthening the agricultural workforce, expanding markets for Pennsylvania-grown products, investing in innovation and technology, preserving working farmland, and helping family farms remain profitable and competitive for generations to come.

It reinforces Pennsylvania's commitment to ensuring agriculture remains a national leader and that the next generation of farmers has the tools and support needed to succeed.

Their success demonstrates that when we invest in agriculture, we're investing not only in an industry, but in the families, communities, and traditions that help define who we are.

Thank you to the Matthews family for generations of stewardship and leadership, and thank you to @governor.pa.gov, Secretary Redding, and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for their commitment to strengthening agriculture across our Commonwealth.