This week the Marcellus Shale Coalition and dozens of natural gas industry employees participated in the 97th annual Pennsylvania Farm Show.

In partnership with MSC member companies, the organization’s booth provided farmers and others from the agriculture industry firsthand access to natural gas development subject matter experts. This is the third consecutive year that the MSC has actively participated in the annual farm show.

“The agriculture community is a key partner in the responsible development of clean-burning natural gas,” said Kathryn Klaber, chief executive officer of the MSC. “In each of the past three years that we’ve participated in the farm show, we’ve found more interest in Marcellus-related issues and more informed show-goers who are personally realizing the benefits of this world-class resource. Our industry is grateful for and proud of the strong, working relationships that we continue to build across the agriculture community. This is a unique partnership, given our shared goals of responsible land development and producing commodities that benefit the regional economy.”

In addition to sponsoring a booth in the exhibit hall, the MSC again contributed $5,000 to the Pennsylvania Farm Show Scholarship Foundation on behalf of its members. Since 1993, the Farm Show Scholarship Foundation has recognized more than 400 students with scholarships totaling $1 million.

Students who participate in 4-H and FFA and show animals at the farm show are eligible to apply for this scholarship. MSC community outreach manager and agricultural liaison, Eric Cowden, is a past recipient of the Farm Show Scholarship and is a member of the selection committee.

“As a Pennsylvania farmer and a past recipient of the Farm Show Scholarship, I can say that the leadership, values and work ethic that embody the 4-H and FFA programs absolutely prepare students to become the Commonwealth’s next generation of agriculture leaders,” said Cowden. “MSC member companies remain committed to supporting these important programs.”

The farm show’s 2013 theme is Made in PA. It makes a difference.

“Each year, the MSC community outreach team and our member companies participate in a dozens of county fairs and agricultural events across the commonwealth,” continued Klaber. “These events strengthen our working relationship with the 63,000 farming families across Pennsylvania who are realizing the benefits tied to responsible natural gas development through more affordable utility bills and fertilizer costs as well as by leasing their land and minerals. The partnership between our industries is strong and making a positive difference for the future of our region.”

1/14/2013