22 hours ago
March 18, 2026
PHILADELPHIA — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) announced the signing of a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen their partnership and expand their collaborative activities related to agricultural practices that benefit the environment, regulatory and compliance programs, outreach, training, communication, and education.
EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey and PA Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding signed the MOU at Flinchbaugh’s Orchard and Farm Market in York County, Pennsylvania. Encompassing nearly 420 acres, this three-generational family farm prioritizes conservation at all levels, working to conserve water, limit pesticide uses, and use the latest and most efficient technology and practices.
“Across the Commonwealth, producers are showing that profitability and clean water go hand in hand, and we’re proud to be their partner in agriculture,” said EPA Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey. “Through this agreement, EPA and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture are accelerating producer access to resources and growing practices that build soil health, improve efficiency, protect waterways, and strengthen rural economies.”
The five-year agreement emphasizes a shared commitment between EPA and Pennsylvania to well-managed, sustainable farms that produce food for local communities and a clean environment for all to enjoy.
“Pennsylvania farmers prove every day that strong farms and a healthy environment go hand in hand,” said Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “Under Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration, we are focused on setting farmers up for success by investing in innovation, expanding partnerships that support sustainable farming and conservation efforts, and making sure producers have the tools they need to protect our natural resources. This renewed partnership with United States Environmental Protection Agency strengthens that commitment by aligning state and federal efforts to support farmers – furthering our progress to restore in the Chesapeake Bay and protect our local waterways.”
About the Memorandum of Understanding
The MOU outlines shared goals and activities to strengthen relations and outcomes for EPA and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture:
- Increase state-federal collaboration by participating in organized meetings, sharing updates, and communicating about program activities.
- Encourage honest and recurring discussions between EPA and the agriculture community by participating in roundtables, farm tours, and events.
- Recognize, measure, and promote environmental stewardship by documenting and sharing agriculture best practices and case studies with farmers.
- Enhance regulatory compliance and improve water quality by participating in joint trainings and program assessments and refining communications on compliance and enforcement activities.
EPA and the Commonwealth will produce an annual report to highlight collective achievements realized under the MOU and to outline plans for the coming year.
EPA's Mid-Atlantic Region (Region 3) serves Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and seven federally recognized Tribes. Follow EPA Region 3 on Instagram, X and Facebook. To learn more about a recent MOU signing with the Commonwealth of Virginia, click here.
Learn more about the PA Department of Agriculture’s initiatives and investments at agriculture.pa.gov or by following on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
