Governor Rendell Kicks Off 2007 Farm Show

GOVERNOR RENDELL KICKS OFF 2007 FARM SHOW

Governor Edward G. Rendell today opened the 2007 Pennsylvania Farm Show by reinforcing the state's commitment to agriculture and recognizing the industry's role in Pennsylvania's renewable energy efforts.

"For generations, agriculture has been a major part of Pennsylvania's culture and traditions, and as our number one industry, it will continue to be a driving force in our future," said Governor Rendell. "Pennsylvania is a leader in food and alternative energy production, and I am committed to providing the resources needed to keep agriculture growing."

Governor Rendell recently created the Pennsylvania Agricultural Renewable Energy Council, which will facilitate opening new markets to farmers, reducing dependency on foreign fuels, creating new jobs, promoting economic growth, encouraging conservation and building a diversified energy base.

Within the next decade, the state's alternative fuels industry is expected to use more than 540 million bushels of corn and 5 billion pounds of fats and oils to make ethanol and biodiesel. Half of the corn and nearly two-thirds of the fats and oils are predicted to be produced in-state by Pennsylvania farmers.

Governor Rendell toured the Energy Harvest Exhibit, recognizing Pennsylvania companies working to harness renewable energy through crops, trees, wind, the sun and water.

He presented a check for $2,940,000 to Keystone BioFuels Inc., the state's first company to manufacture and ship biodiesel made from Pennsylvania-grown soybeans. The check represents a combination of financing from three state programs: a $2 million loan guarantee from First Industries Fund; a $500,000 Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority Grant; and a $440,000 Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant. The Governor participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Amerigreen Biofuels' new splash blending facility.

In addition, Governor Rendell recognized the Farm Show for its effort in adopting wind energy as a method of supplying electricity to the complex. A windmill, supplied by Southwest Windpower, was installed to help cut energy costs at the facility. The Governor lighted a model barn, showing that renewable energy powered by windmills can benefit Pennsylvania farmers by producing inexpensive electricity for farm use.

The Governor highlighted net metering, which allows farms that generate electricity to sell excess power back to utility companies for a competitive and fair price.

During the opening ceremony, Governor Rendell recognized the Century and Bicentennial Fair Program that celebrates fairs in operation for at least 100 and 200 years. Forty of the state's 115 fairs were acknowledged for these honors. The fair program promotes public awareness of agriculture and features the best of Pennsylvania livestock, produce and crafts.

The Governor shared other accomplishments of Pennsylvania's agricultural industry including:

* The addition of 22 inspectors to the Bureau of Weights and Measures to ensure accurate dispensing of fuel for consumers and businesses;
* A $3 million investment in agricultural research to address consumer protection;
* The PA Preferred Vending Initiative to encourage students to make healthy food choices;
* The appointment of a special dog law enforcement team to enforce kennel provisions;
* The opening of the state's first, new harness race track in more than 40 years;
* The development of the first Invasive Species Management Plan for Pennsylvania to protect citizens; and
* The certification of 700 manure haulers through the Manure Hauler and Broker Program

"The future of the Pennsylvania agriculture industry looks bright," the Governor said. "We will continue to support our thousands of farm families through innovative programs because an investment in agriculture is an investment in all of Pennsylvania."

The Pennsylvania Farm Show is the largest indoor agricultural event in the nation, featuring 6,000 animals, 8,000 exhibits, hundreds of shows and events, and more than 400,000 visitors. The eight-day show runs Jan. 6-13 at the Farm Show Complex & Expo Center. Admission is free and parking is $5. For more information, visit www.farmshow.state.pa.us.

http://www.state.pa.us/papower/cwp/view.asp?A=11&Q=459315