Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

The council meeting focused on various aspects of invasive species management in Pennsylvania. Key discussions included updates on the Pennsylvania Invasive Species Management Plan and associated breakout groups, the Pennsylvania Native Species Day at the Capitol, and the Pennsylvania Invasive Replace-ive (PAIR) Program. Committee reports were provided on communications, invasive species listing updates, and legislative efforts, including the proposed Invasive Species Act and the concept of a Center of Excellence for Invasive Species Management. The council also reviewed outcomes from the 2026 PA Farm Show and discussed strategies for future outreach and educational initiatives related to aquatic invasive species and forest health.

The primary objective of the meeting is the review of full proposals submitted in response to a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the industry promotion program. The agenda also includes a session for public comment.

The board meeting focused on new business, specifically reviewing budget amendment requests for Drinking Partners and Visit Hershey Harrisburg for the 2025 fiscal year. Additionally, the board planned to review and discuss full proposals, address other business matters, and provide time for public comment.

The board discussed several items, including the status of the Corporate Challenge all-accessible climbing tower, which was removed from the table for future re-presentation. Conditional approvals were granted for the Grips drift carts, contingent upon addressing safety requirements, maintenance standards, and manual revisions, and for the Erie Zoo train modification, pending inspection. Additionally, the board approved the Crazy Dance amusement ride and the Tubby Slide attraction. Finally, the board began discussions regarding the installation of a new Mammoth ride by Proslide.

The council meeting focused on the operational phase of the Pennsylvania Statewide Invasive Species Management Plan. Key discussions included updates on invasive species such as the box tree moth, spotted lanternfly, and the potential spread of golden mussels. The council reviewed and prioritized recommendations within the Invasive Species Management Plan through breakout groups covering Prevention, Early Detection and Rapid Response, Eradication and Containment, and Long-Term Management. Additionally, members discussed potential organizational structures for the Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) initiative, upcoming outreach events for the PA Farm Show, and communication strategies for invasive species prevention.