Pennsylvania

AgrAbility PA hosted their annual advisory group meeting in State College, PA. It was a day packed full of information, brainstorming, and planning for the year ahead. AgrAbility staff provided project updates, client service highlights, and updates on marketing and outreach. Discussions included emerging issues in agriculture, increased outreach to veterans, and educational opportunities with local FFA chapters.

AgrAbility PA staff participated in "Communicating with Farmers Under Stress," a mental health training hosted by the Centre for Dairy Excellence. The training was led by Suzanne Pish, an Extension educator from Michigan State. Mental health is a rising concern in agriculture and recently hit the PA dairy industry especially hard. This training is the first step AgrAbility staff has taken to learn about the resources available for clients who might need mental health support.

AgrAbility Project Assistant Abbie Spackman participated in a Women in Ag event hosted by the National Resources Conservation Service. During the event, Abbie provided information to attendees about AgrAbility services, networked with local farmers and agribusinesses, and provided educational information to individuals in local government.

Submitted by Abbie Spackman