Pennsylvania farmers can learn about natural gas leasing opportunities at two informational workshops to be held in Bradford and Tioga counties on June 10 and 11.

The programs are sponsored by the Department of Agriculture's Center for Farm Transitions and PAgrows, Penn State University Dickinson School of Law, the Center for Agricultural Law and the Department of Environmental Protection.

The first workshop will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., June 10, in the Straughn Auditorium at Mansfield University, Tioga County. The second meeting will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., June 11, at the Wyscox Fire Hall, Bradford County. Attendance is free and registration is not required.

"Pennsylvania farmers face many challenges, especially when it comes to profitability, making it essential that they be aware of the potential benefits and drawbacks of new opportunities," said Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff. "With the discovery of new drilling technology and the rising cost of fossil fuels, the natural gas rush in Pennsylvania is unfolding.

"Natural gas found in Pennsylvania and surrounding states has the potential to fulfill the entire nation's natural gas requirements for two years, and farmers must educate themselves about gas leasing to decide whether they want to take advantage of the opportunity."

Each two hour program in June will explore natural gas issues, including drilling and exploration, development on leased land, negotiating with gas companies and signing a lease.

An expert panel will participate in the workshops, including representatives from the Center for Farm Transitions and PAgrows, to discuss the benefits and risks associated with natural gas leasing as a profit enhancing strategy. A representative from the state Department of Environmental Protection will focus on environmental concerns, and an attorney from the Center for Agricultural Law will share information about mineral rights leases.

For more information, visit the PAgrows website or call 1-888-PA GROWS (1-888-724-7697). For more information about the Center for Farm Transitions call 1-877-475-2686.

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