Pa. Farm Bureau honors state legislator

HERSHEY, Pa. – Pennsylvania Farm Bureau presented state Rep. Art Hershey with its 2004 Distinguished Service to Agriculture award.
Hershey, who grew up on a dairy farm in Chester County, was a full-time farmer until he was elected to serve the 13th Legislative District in 1982.
“One of the main reasons I decided to get into politics was I believed farmers needed a stronger voice in Harrisburg,” said Hershey.
During 2004, Hershey was instrumental in gaining passage of a law that amends the Milk Producer’s Security Act. The law helps ensure that dairy farmers are paid for milk they have already sent to dealers.
“Farmers aren’t used to asking for help. A big part of my job as a state lawmaker is to fill a void so that farmers across Pennsylvania are properly represented,” said Hershey.
Hershey, who is chairman of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, also played a key role in securing significant funding for the research and implementation of new technologies that will help reduce the odors caused by composting.
Top young farmers. Jeffrey and Pamela Barnes of Tioga County won the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher Achievement Award.
Both Hershey’s award and the Barnes’ honor were presented last week during group’s annual meeting in Hershey.
The award honors the farmer or farm couple between 18 and 35 who has demonstrated outstanding farming and leadership achievements.
Jeff and Pamela Barnes, along with Jeff’s brother Jim, run the family’s dairy farm. The Barnes milk 90 Holsteins and operate an 800-tap maple syrup operation.
Both Jeff and Pamela serve on the State Young Farmer & Rancher Committee and have attended national and worldwide young farmer leadership conferences.
Daniel Brandt of Annville, Lebanon County was the runner-up. He operates Brandt View Farms in partnership with his father and brother.