About PSPA

Organized in 1785 to explore and promote best practices in agriculture. PSPA continues to seek independent information on developments in agriculture.

Upcoming Events

November 12, 2026
The Impact of Changes in Climate, Consumer Preferences, and Farm Economics on the Small and Mid-Sized Producer
Sjoerd Duiker, Ph.D.
Professor of Soil Management and Applied Soil Physics, Penn State University
Meeting at Union League, 11:30 am
(Executive Committee: November 12, 2026; Union League; 10:30 am)

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With the extreme weather that has occurred over the last several years, small and mid-sized producers have been increasingly concerned about climate change and its long-term effects on farming. This program suggests that climate change must be considered in the context of changes in consumer preferences as well as farm economics (more contracting in the supple chain, fewer farm family members working on the farm, profit being squeezed out of connections with buyers).

Our speaker, Sjoerd Duiker, Ph.D. is a specialist in climate changes in soil health and practices that can mediate the negative effects. He is Professor of Soil Management and Applied Soil Physics at Penn State University. His specialization focuses on the effects of soil management practices on soil physical properties and processes. This includes the effect of no-tillage and tillage on soil physical properties, how soil compaction affects soil and crops, what effect crop rotation plays in maintaining soil quality, and the benefits and challenges of cover crops. The use of a systems approach to no-tillage, soil compaction and crop rotations is a crucial element in all his work.

December 3, 2026
Conversation with the Secretaries
Zoom panel, 1:00 pm
(Executive Committee: December 3, 2026; Zoom; 10:30 am)
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January 7, 2027
The State of Stone Fruit Production in the Region after the Big Freeze of 2026
Zoom, 1:00 pm
(Executive Committee: January 5, 2027; Zoom; 10:30 am)
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February 4, 2027
Philadelphia as a Center for Chocolate Production in the Region" Field Trip, 10:30 am
(Executive Committee: February 2, 2027; Zoom; 10:30 am)

March 4, 2027
Black Agricultural Education in the US: Past and Present
Dr. Antonio Silas
Dr. Antoine Alston
Meeting at Union League, 11:30 am
(Executive Committee: March 4, 2027; Union League; 10:30 am)
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