The Income Opportunities for Rural Areas program based in the Capital Region of Pennsylvania helps producers to explore potential agriculturally-based, non-traditional crops and enterprise opportunities. The program directly assists clients in developing their business and marketing plans and in the development of contacts used in business start-up or diversification. Through the development of a business and marketing plan, program clientele effectively plot a course to create their business venture with the greatest chance of success.

Throughout the past ten years, the southern tier of Pennsylvania has seen significant land use changes. This once heavily rural, agricultural area is under intense pressure from development due to its excellent highway access to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. The shift from rural to urban has led to the loss of thousands of acres of farm land being used for new housing and warehouse developments. While there are fewer farms, those still profitable are purchasing additional land to expand or diversify their operations. These expanding agricultural producers recognize the importance of well-planned diversification in order to meet the future. Other small producers are seeking to diversify and expand their current farm operations as a way to increase profits and remain in agriculture. In addition to the established producers, there has been an increase in landowners renovating previously non-productive land for farmettes and part-time farms. Due to the increase in non-traditional agricultural enterprises being considered, the need for non-traditional support programs has increased.

For more information on Income Opportunities for Rural Areas' success or for information about how the Income Opportunities for Rural Areas program can help your own community, contact Amber Lockawich.

February, 2007