MANHEIM – Agriculture secretary Russell Redding and Pennsylvania State University college of agricultural sciences dean Dr. Troy Ott launched the new Center for Plant Excellence, an initiative aimed at advancing research, innovation, and business growth in Pennsylvania’s diverse, plant-based ag sector.

Gov. Josh Shapiro secured funding for the new center in his first budget to help drive economic growth by fostering collaboration, investing in research, and equipping businesses with the resources they need to compete. The center, with a $500,000 investment from the Shapiro Administration, will be led by the PSU Southeast Research Center.

“This center will enhance Pennsylvania’s global competitiveness by combining forces of some of our strongest agriculture producers with our world class land-grant university,” said Secretary Redding. “Penn State’s deep well of expertise and innovative research and the collective power of interrelated businesses will help ensure that Pennsylvania stays at the cutting edge. This partnership is a great opportunity to build a brighter future for the state’s farmers, producers, and economy.”

The Penn State Southeast Research Center is the university’s hub for applied field research in south-central Pennsylvania. SEAREC tests and refines innovative ideas from Penn State labs before introducing them to local growers, supporting farms and allied industries with practical, research-based solutions to boost productivity and sustainability.

Forest products, ornamental plants, apples, grapes, and other specialty food crops are among the products that secure Pennsylvania’s position as a national agriculture leader.

These and other plant-based industries contribute an estimated $52.7 billion annually to our state economy, according to the 2021 Pennsylvania Agriculture Economic Impact Study. Despite their vital economic role, the state’s plant industries have lacked a centralized, coordinated effort for growth and innovation. The new Center for Plant Excellence will address this gap and provide the dedicated resources needed to accelerate advancements in plant science, production, and processing