Chester County will adopt its first Ag Economic Development Strategic Plan, created to guide the future growth of the county’s important agricultural economy.

The adoption coincides with National Agriculture Day and celebrates Chester County’s commitment to farming. 

“Agriculture is such a significant part of our county’s heritage, culture, and landscape, and in the face of increasing competition for use of land, we are working hard to ensure Chester County farming remains vibrant and strong,” said Chester County Commissioner Marian Moskowitz. “This strategic plan addresses the many challenges currently impacting the ag industry and provides a road map for all opportunities to spur growth and innovation.”

At more than $712 million in annual sales, Chester County’s agricultural industry ranks second among all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. Mushroom, field crops, and dairy production remain the county’s top sectors, with additional operations that include nursery and greenhouse, equine, vegetable, fruits and tree nuts, Christmas trees, livestock, egg, and poultry.

“Farmers across all industry sectors have been facing challenges for some time, including difficult regulatory practices, shortage of a ready workforce, the high cost of doing business, and even a lack of understanding from the public,” said Chester County Commissioner Josh Maxwell. “This strategic plan is the result of months of research around the needs of our farmers, local industry sectors, and residents, and one action item is to consider creating an independent entity that will provide greater industry support than any single organization has been able to do on its own.”

The Chester County Ag Economic Development Strategic Plan was developed through collaboration among major agricultural, business, and tourism organizations, spearheaded by the Chester County Ag Council. 

The plan focuses on six strategic areas: Agricultural Markets; Business & Financing; Education & Outreach; Labor & Workforce; Land Access; and Zoning & Land Use. The recommendations within each strategic area encompass a holistic and integrated approach that reflects what matters to farmers and agribusinesses.

“Together, Chester County agriculture is stronger than any one individual farm business or farmer,” said Chester County Ag Council Chair Gary Westlake. “Our unique Piedmont plateau climate, world-class non-irrigated soils, and community of farm entrepreneurs puts us in a unique position to feed and beautify our county, the Mid Atlantic region and areas well beyond those borders.

“Chester County agriculture is a polished gem and a production powerhouse.”

ACDS, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in economic development based in Maryland, guided the planning process through interviews, market research, surveys, and insights from county officials. The initiative was funded through a combination of county and partner support.