State Sen. Gene Yaw, R-Loyalsock Township, hosted his annual “Breakfast Meeting on Agriculture” recently with nearly 100 participants representing agriculture and agribusiness in Lycoming and Union counties — including farmers, agribusiness professionals, 4-H members, FFA students from Mifflinburg, Montoursville and Selinsgrove, dairy royalty, teachers and elected officials, as well as featured speaker Russell Redding, secretary of the state Department of Agriculture.

“Each year, the discussion is intended to create a friendly dialogue and exchange of ideas on important agricultural and environmental topics impacting our region,” Yaw said, according to a news release. “The meeting is also designed to listen to concerns and answer questions. I was glad Secretary Redding was able to join us this year and highlight many important issues facing agriculture.”

“Senator Yaw has been a longtime champion of farmers, and state funding for conservation measures that are critical to clean water and healthy soil for our future,” Redding said, according to the news release. “I appreciate his partnership over the years, and I am pleased to join Sen. Yaw to represent the Shapiro Administration in addressing questions and concerns that are close to home in this region and across Pennsylvania.”

Redding was first nominated by former Gov. Ed Rendell to head the department. He was most recently re-confirmed in May.

The day’s discussion also touched on several legislative proposals pending before the state Senate, which focus on water quality, stream maintenance and environmental improvements, the news release said.