As part of the IMAGINE Berks strategy, we used data to drive goals and action steps.  However, there was one industry sector that didn’t have as much aggregated data to sink our teeth into – Agriculture.  To best support this critical Berks County industry, we were going to need more, and we wanted a data-driven and impactful approach to quantify the full picture of agriculture in the county.

As a result, we partnered with ACDS, LLC (Agriculture and Community Development Services) in early 2024 for a study that came to be known as Growing Berks:  Agriculture’s Economic Impact and a Roadmap for Its Future. The study included measuring the total direct and indirect impacts of the agricultural industry and developing a strategic action plan for the County and its partners.   This study would play a pivotal role in shaping the future of agriculture in the County and the region, ensuring its sustained economic growth.

The project involved engaging the agricultural community – farmers, agriculture-related business owners, community business leaders, Ag support organizations – in interviews and focus groups.

At the time the study launched, I said that “The future of agriculture is important to the future of Berks County. We need to fully appreciate the breadth and diversity of the industry so that we can best support its planned growth.”  In reviewing the study data and resulting plan, I believe that now more than ever.  Take a look at some Quick Facts about Berks County Agriculture:

Average farm size:  118 acres

80,000 preserved acres

Top Ag industry sector is Poultry production
Top 3 Commodity sales:  Poultry and Eggs, Milk from Cows, Mushrooms

Ag supports over 4,600 jobs

Total annual agricultural output from Berks County is $1B+

An Ag Advisory committee made up of a diversity of Ag – farmers, producers, Ag lenders, agencies supporting Ag was convened and reviewed data, drafts, and the Roadmap to ensure that what we compiled was in line with our farmers, producers and agencies supporting Ag.  Did it make sense?  Are we capturing information that aligns with what you know and is reflecting your experience?   Were we appropriately featuring and prioritizing relevant and potentially impactful action steps?

So, now it’s time to dip your toe into the field and check out our latest IMAGINE Berks accomplishment and meet Growing Berks:  Agriculture’s Economic Impact and a Roadmap for Its Future.