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Organic Agriculture Transition Expert Luke Howard Joins Rodale Institute To Lead Agricultural Land Revitalization Project In South Central PA

On April 23, Berks County-based Rodale Institute announced organic agriculture transition advisor, Luke Howard, has joined Rodale Institute to lead the nonprofit’s partnership with Warehime Enterprise to regenerate farmland in South Central Pennsylvania.

Warehime Enterprise is boldly committed to the health of the community in South Central Pennsylvania through the preservation of local farmland, improvement of soil health, and active community engagement around the benefits of regenerative organic agriculture.

This unwavering commitment aims to contribute significantly to the long-term success of the local economy and the vitality of the South Central Pennsylvania community.

Rodale Institute, the prestigious agricultural research and education nonprofit, is partnering with Warehime Enterprise to deliver on its ambitious goals.

Luke Howard will lead the joint initiative by serving as the Institute’s Organic Consultant.

Howard began working in the organic sector in 2006 and is the former Chairman of the Maryland Ag Commission and past president of Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO).

He will oversee 2,000 acres of farmland within Warehime’s network and manage the organization’s nearly $300,000 annual investment in improving soil health and preserving farmland in its community.

“Howard’s mastery and deep acumen of regenerative organic agriculture, paired with Warehime’s commitment to securing South Central Pennsylvania’s farming legacy, is clearly a recipe for success,” said Rodale Institute CEO Jeff Tkach. “By preserving and improving the quality of farmland in the region, Warehime’s investment in regenerative organic agriculture will result in strong economic, public, and environmental health benefits and for its community.”

“Warehime Enterprise is excited to partner with Rodale Institute to assist in our strategic goal of preserving farmland in South Central Pennsylvania and more importantly, improving the soil health of our land through regenerative/organic practices,” said Warehime Enterprise President Steve Yelland. “We’re excited to have Luke join the team, as his hands-on experience will be critical in connecting our farming partners to opportunities for success they may not have otherwise had in this strategic initiative.”

“This is an exciting opportunity to convert conventionally farmed land to organic in southcentral Pennsylvania,” said Howard. “By doing so we will create not just soil that is healthy and productive, but also create an opportunity for strong economic gains for the farm families and regional economy. Pennsylvania has a strong organic network led by the leadership of the Rodale Institute. Steve’s commitment to the transition of this land and keeping the relationship with his farming partners is unique and rewarding. This process will create a model for a healthy relationship for farmers, landowners, soil, and crops.”

The Warehime family’s generational ties to the region and steadfast commitment to promoting a healthy food system is a prime motivating factor for their investment in this initiative with Rodale Institute.

For more information on programs, initiatives, research, assistance available to farmers, and upcoming events, visit the Rodale Institute website. Upcoming Events. Like them on Facebook. Follow them on Twitter. Check out their YouTube Channel.

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