Chesco Commissioners Adopt Ag Economic Plan

WEST CHESTER — Chester County Commissioners on Tuesday adopted the county’s first agriculture economic development strategic plan, created to guide the future of the county's agricultural economy.

At more than $712 million in annual sales, Chester County’s agricultural industry ranks second among all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. Lancaster County ranks first.

The commissioners also adopted a proclamation for National Agriculture Day, celebrating the county’s commitment to farming.

Mushroom, field crops and dairy production remain the county’s top sectors, with additional operations that include nursery and greenhouse, equine, vegetable, fruits and tree nuts, Christmas trees, livestock, and egg and poultry.

Chester County is labeled as the "Mushroom Capital of the World," with over 50 mushroom farms in the 759 square-mile county.

County Commissioners React

Marian Moskowitz, commissioner chairwoman: “Agriculture is such a significant part of our county’s heritage, culture and landscape, and in the face of increasing competition for use of land, we are working hard to ensure Chester County farming remains vibrant and strong.

“This strategic plan addresses the many challenges currently impacting the ag industry and provides a road map for all opportunities to spur growth and innovation.”

Commissioner Josh Maxwell: “Farmers across all industry sectors have been facing challenges for some time, including difficult regulatory practices, shortage of a ready workforce, the high cost of doing business, and even a lack of understanding from the public.

“This strategic plan is the result of months of research around the needs of our farmers, local industry sectors and residents, and one action item is to consider creating an independent entity that will provide greater industry support than any single organization has been able to do on its own.”

Commissioner Michelle Kichline: “Although the plan’s strategies are largely a road map for ag industry partners and farm businesses to continue to succeed and grow, we all benefit from a stronger, more resilient agriculture industry

"When farm businesses thrive, there is less competition for other more intensive land development. Successful farms also bring increased employment, a vibrant local food community, venues for family fun, environmental benefits, and the overall sense of place enjoyed by so many in the county."

Ag plan development

The Chester County Ag Economic Development Strategic Plan was developed through collaboration between major agricultural, business and tourism organizations, spearheaded by the Chester County Ag Council.

Supporting partners include the 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 Conference & Visitors Bureau.

The Plan focuses on six strategic areas: Agricultural Markets; Business & Financing; Education & Outreach; Labor & Workforce; Land Access; and Zoning & Land Use. The recommendations within each strategic area encompass a holistic and integrated approach that reflect what matters to farmers and agribusinesses.

“Chester County agriculture is a polished gem and a production powerhouse,” said Gary Westlake, county agriculture council chairman. “Together Chester County agriculture is stronger than any one individual farm business or farmer.”

ACDS, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in economic development based in Maryland, guided the planning process through interviews, market research, surveys, and insights from county officials. The initiative was funded through a combination of county and partner support.

The 148-page report is available online here.