02/29/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/29/2024 16:50
02/29/2024
Governor Shapiro's Proposed 2024-25 Budget Invests in Continuing Industry Growth and Innovation
Harrisburg, PA - Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture released findings from its 2023 study, Economic Impact of the Pennsylvania Grape & Wine Industry. The study, funded by the department's Wine Marketing and Research Program, found that the industry supports 10,756 jobs, paying wages of $518.2 million, and directly contributing $1.77 billion to the state economy annually. Pennsylvania ranks 4th in wine production in the nation, up from 5th in 2018. Grape production in PA has grown by about 970 tons per year in that period.
Governor Josh Shapiro's2024-25 budget provides meaningful new support for continued growth in Pennsylvania agriculture by investing in innovation, jobs, conservation, economic and workforce development, and the higher education institutions providing research critical to protecting the industry's future.
"Pennsylvania's wine and grape industry is a tremendous asset to our economy and undeniably adds to quality of life in every region of the state," Sec. Redding said. "The thriving industry brings visitors to our countryside and small towns, provides nutritious juice for our youngest consumers, and wines that pair with locally-grown foods on restaurant and family tables. The Shapiro Administration is proud to invest in the industry's future and the future of families and communities who depend on it."
The study encompassed data on wine and juice grape vineyards, juice processors, wine wholesale and retail sales, research and education, wineries, and wine tourism. Fresh table grapes are not included in the data.
Millions of visitors to Pennsylvania's 326 wineries generate $747 million in tourism revenue every year.
Governor Shapiro's budget and new economic development strategy recognize agriculture, including the wine and grape sector, as a critical economic driver. To continue Pennsylvania's position as a center of cutting-edge industry research, and its legacy as a national leader 2024-25 budget proposes investing:
Find the full report plus illustrated highlights and a report summary at agriculture.pa.gov.
Find local wineries and learn how to support Pennsylvania wine producers at PAPreferred.comOpens In A New Window. Find Pennsylvania's wine trails, and events in your region or for your next road trip at Pennsylvaniawine.comOpens In A New Window.
You can read Governor Shapiro'sfull budget in brief hereOpens In A New Window.
The Governor's full Economic Development Strategy is available at PAGetsItDone.comOpens In A New Window.
Contact: Shannon Powers, [email protected], 717.603.2056
# # #