Introduction to Cumberland County
Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Introduction to Cumberland County Established in 1750, Cumberland County encompasses 550 square miles of south central Pennsylvania. Over 210,000 people reside in the County, spread out across 33 municipalities. Carlisle is the County seat. Adams, Dauphin, Franklin, Perry, and York counties are all neighboring counties. Cumberland County has distinct geographical features defining its boundaries. To the north, the Blue Mountains separate Cumberland County from Perry County. To the south, the South Mountain Range, including Michaux State Forest, separates the County from Adams and York Counties. The eastern boundary of the County is defined by the Susquehanna River and separates Cumberland County from Dauphin County and PA’s state capital, Harrisburg. The western border of the County with Franklin County is less distinct. However, the Borough of Shippensburg serves as the adjoining feature between the counties, with one portion of the municipality in Cumberland County and a portion in Franklin County. Across Cumberland County, three regions can be defined: the eastern, central, and western regions. The eastern region of the County, known locally as the “West Shore” (of the Susquehanna), contains the densest development of the County. This region, which includes the boroughs of Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill, Lemoyne, New Cumberland, and Wormleysburg, is rapidly approaching a completely developed condition. Commercial strip malls are common in this region, particularly around the major travel corridors. The central region of the County contains one major borough, Carlisle. Also included in this region are the boroughs of Boiling Springs, Mt. Holly Springs and several townships which provide residents with a small town or rural living environment. However, the townships in this region are receiving significant development pressure. Specifically, commercial and industrial businesses desire locations near the major thoroughfares of I81, I76, and US Route 11. Upper-middle class residential development is very common in this region’s townships, providing residents with a rural setting and easy access to urban conveniences. Both commercial and residential development continues to push into the western region of the County. The western region of the County, with the exception of Shippensburg, is still primarily rural. This region is characterized by small villages, woodlots, rolling hills, and an agricultural landscape. Development pressure in this area is centered on the borough of Shippensburg and its surrounding townships. Shippensburg also is home to Shippensburg State University which seasonally boosts the town’s population and local economy. Due to the highway system, Cumberland County is a major thoroughfare for the trucking and shipping industry. This same infrastructure makes locating a business in Cumberland County very attractive to potential suitors. Located between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, Carlisle is just a short drive from the state capital of Harrisburg, York, and the Baltimore-Washington Beltway. From New York City southward to Memphis and Atlanta and westward to Chicago, Cumberland County can easily access the major cities on the East Coast and in the Midwest. Boasting a 2.6% unemployment rate, the lowest in Pennsylvania, Cumberland County is definitely a great place to live and work. However, economic progress and development has a price – agriculture and natural resources within the County are subjected to greater demands and increased stress as the County prospers.
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
The Conservation District The Cumberland County Conservation District was established in 1953 after a group of local farmers interested in the conservation of their soil and water resources made their wishes known to the County Commissioners. Today, with eight full time employees, the Conservation District serves as the primary watchdog over the soil and water resources of the County. As the name implies, the Cumberland County Conservation District is an office of County Government. The Conservation District, authorized by the Legislature under Act 217 "Conservation District Law" and guided by a board of local volunteers, is committed to minimizing the impact of human activities on and enhancing the natural resources of the county through a combination of enforcement of laws and regulations, education and cooperative agreements with government agencies and private individuals. As the County continues to thrive, it will become increasingly more important to conserve and protect the natural resources within the county. Ag Land and Open Space Preservation, Water Quality and Quantity, Forested Areas, Wildlife Habitat, and Recreational Areas are all natural resources that Cumberland County citizens have expressed an interest in protecting!
Cumberland County Agriculture Facts and General Trends Agriculture is an important economic activity in Cumberland County. One measure of economic importance is production values. According to data from the Pennsylvania Agricultural Statistics Service (PASS), the total value of production agriculture in 2001 in Cumberland County was $106,671,000. In 2001, the Dairy Industry was the leading contributor with 52%, or $55,824,000, of total production. The poultry and livestock industry contributed nearly 27%, with $28,680,000 of production. (See Figure 1) Employment is another indicator of economic importance. Based on data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), county farm employment totaled 1603 jobs in 2000. This represents a 19% decrease since 1969. In contrast total county employment has increased 133% since 1969 to 158,652. This employment data indicates a trend away from agriculture and towards other areas of the local economy. This is consistent with many areas of the Country that were originally settled as agrarian cultures. As technology progressed, workers gained new skills and found new opportunities, often in higher paying less strenuous jobs than working on the farm. Many of the new job opportunities were created to service the agricultural industry. However, even with the creation of new jobs and services, farming continued to contribute to most family incomes well into the 20th century.
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Figure 1 2001 Farm Receipts by Product (thousands of dollars)
$9,093.00
$5,906.00 $28,680.00
$7,168.00 $55,824.00
Dairy Field Crops Horticulture & Mushrooms Poultry & Livestock Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service an d Penn State
Other
Today, job opportunities abound in Cumberland County – the transportation and shipping industry, retail industry, manufacturing industry, and service industry are all alive and well in the County. However, Agriculture still plays a vital role in our local economy. For example, because farms need to purchase inputs and services beyond the farm, local jobs are created to service the Ag industry. Similarly farm workers stimulate the local economy by using their income to purchase local goods and services. According to the BEA and the PSU Cooperative Extension, these ripple effects are often referred to as Economic Multiplier Effects. The BEA estimates that for the 1603 agriculture jobs in Cumberland County, another 661 jobs exist in the local economy due to the agriculture ripple effects. Simply stated, for every agricultural job in the county, another 0.4 local jobs are supported. By studying statistics from 1997-2002, some insight into the agricultural trends in Cumberland County is gained: Over this time period, 158 county farms went out of business. Specifically, the total number of farms in the county decreased from 1,274 to 1,116 (See Figure 2). Several reasons may exist for the decrease in the number of farms over this time period: 1. Farm operating expenses and costs of living were increasing while milk prices, the dairy industry’s mainstay, were decreasing or remaining stable. 2. Over any given time period, operators are forced to deal with weather conditions that can negatively affect production. Weather conditions can compound other problems such as lowered milk prices, loss of cattle, and higher than expected repair, replacement, and renovation costs. These are just a few of the reasons farm budgets can slip into the red –
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
continued operation under one or more of these conditions eventually forces operators out of business. 3. Due to the increased development pressure in Cumberland County, combined with increasingly tight profit margins, it is often more profitable for an operation to sell the land rather than farm it. 4. Natural attrition – some farms simply go out of business because the primary operator has reached retirement age and has no children or heirs interested in continuing the farming operation.
Figure 2 Cumberland County Farm Numbers vs. Average Farm Size 1300
1250
1200
1150
Total Farm Numbers Average Farm Size (Acres in tenths)
1100
1050
1000 1987 1997 2001 2002
Source: Pennsylvania Agricultural Statistics
1987 - Cumberland County begins to participate in the Bay
The total number of farms decreased by 12 percent over this time period but total farm acreage only decreased by 6 percent. This is primarily due to the 7 percent increase in the remaining farms size (from 120 acres to 128 acres), suggesting an overall trend for operations to expand. Total farm acreage in 2003 was approximately 142,500 acres. A gradual increase in farm size may be occurring for several reasons: 1. Remaining farms may be expanding in order to maintain or improve total productivity. With increased operating costs and minimal increases in commodity revenues, some expansion may be necessary in order to maintain current profit levels. Most expansion occurs in the form of more buildings and more animals. Many times additional land is needed to provide adequate feed for an expanding herd and for proper animal waste disposal. 2. Due to increased regulatory and development pressure, many existing operations may view purchasing additional farmland as a necessary asset for continued operation in the future. Only the most efficient farms have the necessary capital and resources needed to purchase additional farmland. If regulatory pressure and development pressure continue to increase
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Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
in the future, you can expect the total number of farms will continue to decrease while the average farm size and farm efficiency will increase. Although the total number of farms has decreased, the Average Market Value of Production per farm has increased by 15%. This data also suggests remaining farms may be operating more efficiently than the farms that have gone out of business since 1997. This is consistent with what one would expect to see in any business – as competition for resources and consumers increases, the most efficient operations begin to rise to the top. This trend, greater overall production levels with fewer farms (improved farm efficiency), may have several explanations: 1. Improvements in technology can lead to greater efficiency. For example, improvements in animal science and animal nutrition result in higher levels of milk production in dairy cattle. This is illustrated when comparing cattle numbers and production levels from 1985 (Beginning of the FAFP – Bay Program) to 2001. The county wide average milk production per cow in 1985 was 14,500 pounds versus 19,000 pounds in 2001 (See Figures 3,4). Similarly, improvements in farm equipment, seed quality, nutrient management, feed storage, cattle comfort, labor efficiency, etc, can all lead to increased levels of production. Farmers continually strive to do more with less! 2. Cumberland County is beginning to see a trend for farmers to supplement their income through increased custom farming. Many times, it is more cost efficient for an operation to employ custom harvesters, planters, manure haulers, and even custom growers for young stock than to use their own resources and time to perform the task. 3. Thirdly, some farming operations are generating additional revenue by adding another dimension to their operations. For example, dairy or beef farmers may erect a poultry house in order to generate an additional source of revenue. 4. Some county farmers increase their productivity through direct marketing to local consumers or niche markets. For example, by promotion through local campaigns, county fairs, or local farmers markets, producers may receive greater than average revenues from consumers interested in buying local products.
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Figure 3 Number of Milk Cows vs. Average Milk Production Per Cow 25000
20000
15000
Number of Milk Cows Average Milk Production ( lbs/cow-yr)
10000
5000
0 1985
1988
1997
1998
Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service
1999
2000
2001
1985 - PA FAFP established
Figure 4 Number of Milk Cows vs. Total Milk Production 35500
25000
35000
34500
20000
33500
Milk Cows
15000
33000
32500
10000
Milk Production
34000
32000 5000
0
31500
Number of Milk Cows
31000
Total Milk Production (thousands)
30500 1985
1988
1997
1998
1999
2000
Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service
6
2001
Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Cumberland County Anabaptist Communities and Agriculture
Cumberland County is home to large populations of Old Order Mennonite, conservative Mennonite, and many Amish families. These communities are located mainly in the western region of the county, in the townships surrounding Newville, Newburg, and Shippensburg. Over the past few years these communities have been steadily increasing. Unfortunately, there are no exact numbers as to how many “Plain” sect farms are located in Cumberland County. Many times, these communities are the exception to the general trends in county agriculture, specifically as they relate to technological advances. For example, the Amish generally use draft horses when working in the fields; the conservative Mennonite farmers use steel wheeled tractors for farm work. Amish generally do not use electricity from public utility lines whereas some Mennonite farms utilize electricity but avoid certain “luxuries” like television or radio. Also, contrary to the majority of the County, almost all plain sect families have close ties to agriculture. Although many Anabaptist men are involved in other trades such as woodworking or general construction (depending upon their sect and specific religious beliefs), agriculture remains a vital part of each family and community. The size of these operations often varies between the different plain sects: For example, the average size of an Amish dairy is 50-60 acres with 40-50 head of milking cows. In contrast, a Mennonite (Wenger Mennonite) dairy may consist of 80-100 head of milking cows and a larger number of crop acres. Management between the different groups also varies widely: Amish dairymen generally stick to a corn and alfalfa rotation with conventional tillage (moldboard plow). Corn is usually harvested for silage without the use of cover crops. Livestock are generally turned out on a regular basis and manure is usually daily hauled. Few Amish farmers have a conservation plan or nutrient management plan. In contrast, the Wenger Mennonite dairymen grow a wider range of crops from sudex and speltz to more traditional crops such as corn and alfalfa. Although some operators still utilize a moldboard plow, reduced tillage and conservation tillage are more common. It is not uncommon for dairy cattle to be confined and a waste storage structure to exist on the farm. Additionally, these operators are usually willing to have a conservation plan developed and may participate in USDA programs. Although the Amish communities in Cumberland County are steeped in tradition and not as open to change, recent years have seen some experimentation with conservation practices. Conversely, the Wenger Mennonites tend to be fairly progressive and generally open to new ideas and conservation practices. Mennonite families (other than the Wenger Mennonites) operate their farming operations the same as “English” farmers.
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Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Similar to traditional farming operations, there is a trend for farmers associated with the Anabaptist church to diversify their operations. It is very common for Anabaptist farmers to add produce to their operations. Two produce auctions in the Shippensburg area provide an easily accessible outlet for the produce and attract both local buyers and business from the Washington D.C. area. Over the past five years the Cumberland County Conservation District has been very successful in developing a good working relationship with both the Amish and Mennonite farmers. We have seen an attitude change in many of the operators toward working with “government” agencies. They are more open to receiving assistance from our office. In all cases the operators are open to information and usually in very good attendance at field days and farmer meetings. It is vital that the Conservation District continue to maintain a good relationship with the plain communities. Unlike most farming operations, plain farmers are generally more resistant to change, less likely to sell their farms (at least for a non-agricultural use), and more likely to operate a “traditional” family style farm. As development pressure in the County increases and the number of total farms decreases, the plain farms in the western region of the County may begin to play a bigger role in the Conservation District’s agricultural programs.
Agricultural Trends and the relationship to Water Quality and Best Management Practices (BMPs) As Agriculture continues to change in Cumberland County, it is important for the Conservation District to understand how these trends may affect the work at hand. For example, consider the following trends previously discussed: 1. Increasing development pressure in across Cumberland County. 2. Tighter profit margins in the dairy industry. 3. General trend for operations to expand. 4. Greater farm efficiency and diversification. 5. Improved technology. 6. Increasing regulatory pressure. Based on these factors, farming operations can be expected to continue to push for higher productivity and improved efficiency. Generally, as productivity increases, so does the demand on the resources utilized. From a conservation standpoint, it is important to understand that this increased demand on resources includes soil and water resources. In short, as the County and the dairy industry progress, so does the stress placed on the natural resources. For example, as illustrated previously in Figure 3, milk production per cow has increased substantially since the beginning of the Bay program. When milk production increases, so does waste production (See Figure 5). In other words, if a farmer has increased milk production levels in the last 20 years (and most have) and cattle numbers remain the same, manure production will have increased. Although the total number of farms and milk cows has decreased in the county, higher production levels are maintaining relatively stable amounts of manure production (See Figure 6). On most dairy operations, manure handling and nutrient management present greater challenges today than 20 years ago. Even though the total amount of manure produced has decreased since 1985, production of manure today is generally concentrated over smaller areas (fewer farms with higher production). Over application of this waste can create soil quality problems, agronomic problems, water quality problems, and even jeopardize animal and human health.
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Figure 5 Milk Production and Manure Production 20000
49500
18000
49000
16000
48500
14000
12000 47500 10000 47000 8000 46500 6000
Manure Production
Milk Production
48000
Average Milk Production ( lbs/cow-yr)
46000
4000
45500
2000
0
Average Manure Production(lbs/cow-yr)
45000 1985
1988
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
Manure Calc's Based on Formula from ASAE
Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service
1300
600000
1250
500000
1200
400000
1150
300000
1100
200000
1050
100000
1000
Total Manure Production
# of Farms
Figure 6 Farm Number vs. Total Dairy Manure Production (milk cows only)
Farm Numbers
Total County Manure Production (tons)
0 1985
1988
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service
Manure Calc's Based on Formula from ASAE
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Additionally, conflicts between agricultural producers and the non farming community can be expected to continue and most likely increase. As the farming community gradually becomes a smaller sector of the County, the concerns and issues presented by the general public will have a greater impact on regulations and farm management. The Core Conservation Practices chosen for this Strategy are all practices designed to alleviate some of the problems expected as a result of current trends in Cumberland County’s agriculture. Each of these core practices and their relevance to county agricultural trends is discussed in greater detail in Section C which contains the “working components” of the Strategy.
Cumberland County’s Open Space Preservation Plan The Cumberland County Planning Commission worked with the Open Space Steering Community and a consulting team of landscape architects and planners to develop the Open Space Preservation Plan. One of the key components of developing the plan was to assess public opinions, perceptions, and the level of support for open space preservation within the County. From this public survey, it was evident that open space preservation is important to the people of Cumberland County. As part of the plan development, seven goals were established by the Planning Commission. Two of these seven goals were: 1. Preserve the agricultural lands of Cumberland County. 2. Conserve the natural resources of Cumberland County. Three steps summarize implementation of the plan over the next 10 years. All three of these steps make a specific commitment to Agricultural Preservation by setting specific financial and acreage preservation goals. Cumberland County’s Open Space Preservation Plan demonstrates a commitment by County Government, citizens, and organizations to protect agricultural lands and natural resources within the County. Additionally, Cumberland County realizes economic development will remain an important part of the County’s vitality. However, Cumberland County is working hard with its municipalities and citizens to target growth areas, creating smarter development with healthy natural resources and a strong agricultural community. In order to achieve the goals of the County’s Open Space Preservation Plan, the Conservation District must continue to be active within the agricultural community. Basically, this means that continued education, technical assistance, and cost share assistance must continue to be an important part of the District’s mission. Continued funding for program administration and implementation is an absolute necessity. As part of Cumberland County’s Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy, the Conservation District will strive to implement plans and practices which compliment and are consistent with the County Open Space Preservation Plan.
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Introduction to the E&S Programs The Conservation District administers the Chapter 102 E&S program through a signed delegation agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Bureau of Watershed Protection. The emphasis of the overall program is the conservation of soil and water resources. PA’s Chapter 102 program is derived from the Clean Stream’s Law, but meets the standards established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NDPES) permitting program. The following chart, Figure 7, shows “Plan Reviews vs. Project Acres”. Although there is a general decrease in the number of plans received, plan acreage is relatively stable or increasing:
Figure 7 E&S Plan Reviews and Project Acres 4000
250
3500 200
2500
150
2000
100
1500
1000 50 500
0
0 1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
11
2003
2004
Acres
Number of Plans
3000
Plan Reviews *Total Project Acres
Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Two general trends were identified by the E&S staff, which has a combined experience of over 20 years: 1. Improved technology is being implemented in the Chapter 102 program and the NPDES program. 2. Education of contractors, townships, and municipalities is improving. In the past, under Phase I NPDES permitting, E&S BMPs generally consisted of a stormwater detention basin located in the lowest corner of the development project. However, the implementation of Phase II NPDES regulations has spurred innovative BMP technology and requires some projects to include Post Construction Stormwater BMPs. Post Construction Stormwater BMPs include infiltration practices such as wet ponds and constructed wetlands. Innovative approaches are also used to achieve desired infiltrations rates and filtration. These new Stormwater BMPs are eligible practices under PA’s Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy. The Conservation District is also working hard to educate townships and municipalities. To date, Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) have been signed with 23 of 33 townships and municipalities. The MOU is an agreement between the Conservation District and the township/municipality intended to inform each party of their responsibilities under the Chapter 102 E&S Program. Act 167 plans have also been developed for several watersheds in Cumberland County. Act 167 plans are stormwater management plans based on watershed boundaries. Watershed based plans make more sense than planning based on municipality boundaries, which often include only part of a watershed and may contradict other plans within the same watershed. Under an Act 167 plan, each municipality in the watershed must approve of the plan. Some municipalities in the County have been designated as MS4’s under Phase II of the NPDES program. This designation is based on population density (higher population densities = MS4’s). Municipalities receiving this designation are required to implement six minimum control measures designed to protect water resources from illegal discharge and stormwater runoff. As the county continues to experience overall growth, it becomes increasingly important to make sure that resources are protected according to the regulations. Due to intensifying development pressure and greater awareness for environmental protection, the E&S and NDPES programs continue to be two of the District's most demanding programs. Through these programs, the District reviews and approves E&S control plans for earthmoving sites. Inspections of the sites are conducted to assure the plans are properly implemented, controls are installed, and sequences are followed. By doing this, the District strives to meet its goal of minimizing accelerated erosion and sediment pollution to the waters of the Commonwealth as a result of earthmoving activities.
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Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Introduction to Cumberland County Established in 1750, Cumberland County encompasses 550 square miles of south central Pennsylvania. Over 210,000 people reside in the County, spread out across 33 municipalities. Carlisle is the County seat. Adams, Dauphin, Franklin, Perry, and York counties are all neighboring counties. Cumberland County has distinct geographical features defining its boundaries. To the north, the Blue Mountains separate Cumberland County from Perry County. To the south, the South Mountain Range, including Michaux State Forest, separates the County from Adams and York Counties. The eastern boundary of the County is defined by the Susquehanna River and separates Cumberland County from Dauphin County and PA’s state capital, Harrisburg. The western border of the County with Franklin County is less distinct. However, the Borough of Shippensburg serves as the adjoining feature between the counties, with one portion of the municipality in Cumberland County and a portion in Franklin County. Across Cumberland County, three regions can be defined: the eastern, central, and western regions. The eastern region of the County, known locally as the “West Shore” (of the Susquehanna), contains the densest development of the County. This region, which includes the boroughs of Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill, Lemoyne, New Cumberland, and Wormleysburg, is rapidly approaching a completely developed condition. Commercial strip malls are common in this region, particularly around the major travel corridors. The central region of the County contains one major borough, Carlisle. Also included in this region are the boroughs of Boiling Springs, Mt. Holly Springs and several townships which provide residents with a small town or rural living environment. However, the townships in this region are receiving significant development pressure. Specifically, commercial and industrial businesses desire locations near the major thoroughfares of I81, I76, and US Route 11. Upper-middle class residential development is very common in this region’s townships, providing residents with a rural setting and easy access to urban conveniences. Both commercial and residential development continues to push into the western region of the County. The western region of the County, with the exception of Shippensburg, is still primarily rural. This region is characterized by small villages, woodlots, rolling hills, and an agricultural landscape. Development pressure in this area is centered on the borough of Shippensburg and its surrounding townships. Shippensburg also is home to Shippensburg State University which seasonally boosts the town’s population and local economy. Due to the highway system, Cumberland County is a major thoroughfare for the trucking and shipping industry. This same infrastructure makes locating a business in Cumberland County very attractive to potential suitors. Located between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, Carlisle is just a short drive from the state capital of Harrisburg, York, and the Baltimore-Washington Beltway. From New York City southward to Memphis and Atlanta and westward to Chicago, Cumberland County can easily access the major cities on the East Coast and in the Midwest. Boasting a 2.6% unemployment rate, the lowest in Pennsylvania, Cumberland County is definitely a great place to live and work. However, economic progress and development has a price – agriculture and natural resources within the County are subjected to greater demands and increased stress as the County prospers.
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
The Conservation District The Cumberland County Conservation District was established in 1953 after a group of local farmers interested in the conservation of their soil and water resources made their wishes known to the County Commissioners. Today, with eight full time employees, the Conservation District serves as the primary watchdog over the soil and water resources of the County. As the name implies, the Cumberland County Conservation District is an office of County Government. The Conservation District, authorized by the Legislature under Act 217 "Conservation District Law" and guided by a board of local volunteers, is committed to minimizing the impact of human activities on and enhancing the natural resources of the county through a combination of enforcement of laws and regulations, education and cooperative agreements with government agencies and private individuals. As the County continues to thrive, it will become increasingly more important to conserve and protect the natural resources within the county. Ag Land and Open Space Preservation, Water Quality and Quantity, Forested Areas, Wildlife Habitat, and Recreational Areas are all natural resources that Cumberland County citizens have expressed an interest in protecting!
Cumberland County Agriculture Facts and General Trends Agriculture is an important economic activity in Cumberland County. One measure of economic importance is production values. According to data from the Pennsylvania Agricultural Statistics Service (PASS), the total value of production agriculture in 2001 in Cumberland County was $106,671,000. In 2001, the Dairy Industry was the leading contributor with 52%, or $55,824,000, of total production. The poultry and livestock industry contributed nearly 27%, with $28,680,000 of production. (See Figure 1) Employment is another indicator of economic importance. Based on data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), county farm employment totaled 1603 jobs in 2000. This represents a 19% decrease since 1969. In contrast total county employment has increased 133% since 1969 to 158,652. This employment data indicates a trend away from agriculture and towards other areas of the local economy. This is consistent with many areas of the Country that were originally settled as agrarian cultures. As technology progressed, workers gained new skills and found new opportunities, often in higher paying less strenuous jobs than working on the farm. Many of the new job opportunities were created to service the agricultural industry. However, even with the creation of new jobs and services, farming continued to contribute to most family incomes well into the 20th century.
2
Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Figure 1 2001 Farm Receipts by Product (thousands of dollars)
$9,093.00
$5,906.00 $28,680.00
$7,168.00 $55,824.00
Dairy Field Crops Horticulture & Mushrooms Poultry & Livestock Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service an d Penn State
Other
Today, job opportunities abound in Cumberland County – the transportation and shipping industry, retail industry, manufacturing industry, and service industry are all alive and well in the County. However, Agriculture still plays a vital role in our local economy. For example, because farms need to purchase inputs and services beyond the farm, local jobs are created to service the Ag industry. Similarly farm workers stimulate the local economy by using their income to purchase local goods and services. According to the BEA and the PSU Cooperative Extension, these ripple effects are often referred to as Economic Multiplier Effects. The BEA estimates that for the 1603 agriculture jobs in Cumberland County, another 661 jobs exist in the local economy due to the agriculture ripple effects. Simply stated, for every agricultural job in the county, another 0.4 local jobs are supported. By studying statistics from 1997-2002, some insight into the agricultural trends in Cumberland County is gained: Over this time period, 158 county farms went out of business. Specifically, the total number of farms in the county decreased from 1,274 to 1,116 (See Figure 2). Several reasons may exist for the decrease in the number of farms over this time period: 1. Farm operating expenses and costs of living were increasing while milk prices, the dairy industry’s mainstay, were decreasing or remaining stable. 2. Over any given time period, operators are forced to deal with weather conditions that can negatively affect production. Weather conditions can compound other problems such as lowered milk prices, loss of cattle, and higher than expected repair, replacement, and renovation costs. These are just a few of the reasons farm budgets can slip into the red –
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
continued operation under one or more of these conditions eventually forces operators out of business. 3. Due to the increased development pressure in Cumberland County, combined with increasingly tight profit margins, it is often more profitable for an operation to sell the land rather than farm it. 4. Natural attrition – some farms simply go out of business because the primary operator has reached retirement age and has no children or heirs interested in continuing the farming operation.
Figure 2 Cumberland County Farm Numbers vs. Average Farm Size 1300
1250
1200
1150
Total Farm Numbers Average Farm Size (Acres in tenths)
1100
1050
1000 1987 1997 2001 2002
Source: Pennsylvania Agricultural Statistics
1987 - Cumberland County begins to participate in the Bay
The total number of farms decreased by 12 percent over this time period but total farm acreage only decreased by 6 percent. This is primarily due to the 7 percent increase in the remaining farms size (from 120 acres to 128 acres), suggesting an overall trend for operations to expand. Total farm acreage in 2003 was approximately 142,500 acres. A gradual increase in farm size may be occurring for several reasons: 1. Remaining farms may be expanding in order to maintain or improve total productivity. With increased operating costs and minimal increases in commodity revenues, some expansion may be necessary in order to maintain current profit levels. Most expansion occurs in the form of more buildings and more animals. Many times additional land is needed to provide adequate feed for an expanding herd and for proper animal waste disposal. 2. Due to increased regulatory and development pressure, many existing operations may view purchasing additional farmland as a necessary asset for continued operation in the future. Only the most efficient farms have the necessary capital and resources needed to purchase additional farmland. If regulatory pressure and development pressure continue to increase
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
in the future, you can expect the total number of farms will continue to decrease while the average farm size and farm efficiency will increase. Although the total number of farms has decreased, the Average Market Value of Production per farm has increased by 15%. This data also suggests remaining farms may be operating more efficiently than the farms that have gone out of business since 1997. This is consistent with what one would expect to see in any business – as competition for resources and consumers increases, the most efficient operations begin to rise to the top. This trend, greater overall production levels with fewer farms (improved farm efficiency), may have several explanations: 1. Improvements in technology can lead to greater efficiency. For example, improvements in animal science and animal nutrition result in higher levels of milk production in dairy cattle. This is illustrated when comparing cattle numbers and production levels from 1985 (Beginning of the FAFP – Bay Program) to 2001. The county wide average milk production per cow in 1985 was 14,500 pounds versus 19,000 pounds in 2001 (See Figures 3,4). Similarly, improvements in farm equipment, seed quality, nutrient management, feed storage, cattle comfort, labor efficiency, etc, can all lead to increased levels of production. Farmers continually strive to do more with less! 2. Cumberland County is beginning to see a trend for farmers to supplement their income through increased custom farming. Many times, it is more cost efficient for an operation to employ custom harvesters, planters, manure haulers, and even custom growers for young stock than to use their own resources and time to perform the task. 3. Thirdly, some farming operations are generating additional revenue by adding another dimension to their operations. For example, dairy or beef farmers may erect a poultry house in order to generate an additional source of revenue. 4. Some county farmers increase their productivity through direct marketing to local consumers or niche markets. For example, by promotion through local campaigns, county fairs, or local farmers markets, producers may receive greater than average revenues from consumers interested in buying local products.
5
Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Figure 3 Number of Milk Cows vs. Average Milk Production Per Cow 25000
20000
15000
Number of Milk Cows Average Milk Production ( lbs/cow-yr)
10000
5000
0 1985
1988
1997
1998
Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service
1999
2000
2001
1985 - PA FAFP established
Figure 4 Number of Milk Cows vs. Total Milk Production 35500
25000
35000
34500
20000
33500
Milk Cows
15000
33000
32500
10000
Milk Production
34000
32000 5000
0
31500
Number of Milk Cows
31000
Total Milk Production (thousands)
30500 1985
1988
1997
1998
1999
2000
Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service
6
2001
Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Cumberland County Anabaptist Communities and Agriculture
Cumberland County is home to large populations of Old Order Mennonite, conservative Mennonite, and many Amish families. These communities are located mainly in the western region of the county, in the townships surrounding Newville, Newburg, and Shippensburg. Over the past few years these communities have been steadily increasing. Unfortunately, there are no exact numbers as to how many “Plain” sect farms are located in Cumberland County. Many times, these communities are the exception to the general trends in county agriculture, specifically as they relate to technological advances. For example, the Amish generally use draft horses when working in the fields; the conservative Mennonite farmers use steel wheeled tractors for farm work. Amish generally do not use electricity from public utility lines whereas some Mennonite farms utilize electricity but avoid certain “luxuries” like television or radio. Also, contrary to the majority of the County, almost all plain sect families have close ties to agriculture. Although many Anabaptist men are involved in other trades such as woodworking or general construction (depending upon their sect and specific religious beliefs), agriculture remains a vital part of each family and community. The size of these operations often varies between the different plain sects: For example, the average size of an Amish dairy is 50-60 acres with 40-50 head of milking cows. In contrast, a Mennonite (Wenger Mennonite) dairy may consist of 80-100 head of milking cows and a larger number of crop acres. Management between the different groups also varies widely: Amish dairymen generally stick to a corn and alfalfa rotation with conventional tillage (moldboard plow). Corn is usually harvested for silage without the use of cover crops. Livestock are generally turned out on a regular basis and manure is usually daily hauled. Few Amish farmers have a conservation plan or nutrient management plan. In contrast, the Wenger Mennonite dairymen grow a wider range of crops from sudex and speltz to more traditional crops such as corn and alfalfa. Although some operators still utilize a moldboard plow, reduced tillage and conservation tillage are more common. It is not uncommon for dairy cattle to be confined and a waste storage structure to exist on the farm. Additionally, these operators are usually willing to have a conservation plan developed and may participate in USDA programs. Although the Amish communities in Cumberland County are steeped in tradition and not as open to change, recent years have seen some experimentation with conservation practices. Conversely, the Wenger Mennonites tend to be fairly progressive and generally open to new ideas and conservation practices. Mennonite families (other than the Wenger Mennonites) operate their farming operations the same as “English” farmers.
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Similar to traditional farming operations, there is a trend for farmers associated with the Anabaptist church to diversify their operations. It is very common for Anabaptist farmers to add produce to their operations. Two produce auctions in the Shippensburg area provide an easily accessible outlet for the produce and attract both local buyers and business from the Washington D.C. area. Over the past five years the Cumberland County Conservation District has been very successful in developing a good working relationship with both the Amish and Mennonite farmers. We have seen an attitude change in many of the operators toward working with “government” agencies. They are more open to receiving assistance from our office. In all cases the operators are open to information and usually in very good attendance at field days and farmer meetings. It is vital that the Conservation District continue to maintain a good relationship with the plain communities. Unlike most farming operations, plain farmers are generally more resistant to change, less likely to sell their farms (at least for a non-agricultural use), and more likely to operate a “traditional” family style farm. As development pressure in the County increases and the number of total farms decreases, the plain farms in the western region of the County may begin to play a bigger role in the Conservation District’s agricultural programs.
Agricultural Trends and the relationship to Water Quality and Best Management Practices (BMPs) As Agriculture continues to change in Cumberland County, it is important for the Conservation District to understand how these trends may affect the work at hand. For example, consider the following trends previously discussed: 1. Increasing development pressure in across Cumberland County. 2. Tighter profit margins in the dairy industry. 3. General trend for operations to expand. 4. Greater farm efficiency and diversification. 5. Improved technology. 6. Increasing regulatory pressure. Based on these factors, farming operations can be expected to continue to push for higher productivity and improved efficiency. Generally, as productivity increases, so does the demand on the resources utilized. From a conservation standpoint, it is important to understand that this increased demand on resources includes soil and water resources. In short, as the County and the dairy industry progress, so does the stress placed on the natural resources. For example, as illustrated previously in Figure 3, milk production per cow has increased substantially since the beginning of the Bay program. When milk production increases, so does waste production (See Figure 5). In other words, if a farmer has increased milk production levels in the last 20 years (and most have) and cattle numbers remain the same, manure production will have increased. Although the total number of farms and milk cows has decreased in the county, higher production levels are maintaining relatively stable amounts of manure production (See Figure 6). On most dairy operations, manure handling and nutrient management present greater challenges today than 20 years ago. Even though the total amount of manure produced has decreased since 1985, production of manure today is generally concentrated over smaller areas (fewer farms with higher production). Over application of this waste can create soil quality problems, agronomic problems, water quality problems, and even jeopardize animal and human health.
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Figure 5 Milk Production and Manure Production 20000
49500
18000
49000
16000
48500
14000
12000 47500 10000 47000 8000 46500 6000
Manure Production
Milk Production
48000
Average Milk Production ( lbs/cow-yr)
46000
4000
45500
2000
0
Average Manure Production(lbs/cow-yr)
45000 1985
1988
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
Manure Calc's Based on Formula from ASAE
Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service
1300
600000
1250
500000
1200
400000
1150
300000
1100
200000
1050
100000
1000
Total Manure Production
# of Farms
Figure 6 Farm Number vs. Total Dairy Manure Production (milk cows only)
Farm Numbers
Total County Manure Production (tons)
0 1985
1988
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
Source: PA Agricultural Statistics Service
Manure Calc's Based on Formula from ASAE
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Additionally, conflicts between agricultural producers and the non farming community can be expected to continue and most likely increase. As the farming community gradually becomes a smaller sector of the County, the concerns and issues presented by the general public will have a greater impact on regulations and farm management. The Core Conservation Practices chosen for this Strategy are all practices designed to alleviate some of the problems expected as a result of current trends in Cumberland County’s agriculture. Each of these core practices and their relevance to county agricultural trends is discussed in greater detail in Section C which contains the “working components” of the Strategy.
Cumberland County’s Open Space Preservation Plan The Cumberland County Planning Commission worked with the Open Space Steering Community and a consulting team of landscape architects and planners to develop the Open Space Preservation Plan. One of the key components of developing the plan was to assess public opinions, perceptions, and the level of support for open space preservation within the County. From this public survey, it was evident that open space preservation is important to the people of Cumberland County. As part of the plan development, seven goals were established by the Planning Commission. Two of these seven goals were: 1. Preserve the agricultural lands of Cumberland County. 2. Conserve the natural resources of Cumberland County. Three steps summarize implementation of the plan over the next 10 years. All three of these steps make a specific commitment to Agricultural Preservation by setting specific financial and acreage preservation goals. Cumberland County’s Open Space Preservation Plan demonstrates a commitment by County Government, citizens, and organizations to protect agricultural lands and natural resources within the County. Additionally, Cumberland County realizes economic development will remain an important part of the County’s vitality. However, Cumberland County is working hard with its municipalities and citizens to target growth areas, creating smarter development with healthy natural resources and a strong agricultural community. In order to achieve the goals of the County’s Open Space Preservation Plan, the Conservation District must continue to be active within the agricultural community. Basically, this means that continued education, technical assistance, and cost share assistance must continue to be an important part of the District’s mission. Continued funding for program administration and implementation is an absolute necessity. As part of Cumberland County’s Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy, the Conservation District will strive to implement plans and practices which compliment and are consistent with the County Open Space Preservation Plan.
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Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Introduction to the E&S Programs The Conservation District administers the Chapter 102 E&S program through a signed delegation agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Bureau of Watershed Protection. The emphasis of the overall program is the conservation of soil and water resources. PA’s Chapter 102 program is derived from the Clean Stream’s Law, but meets the standards established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NDPES) permitting program. The following chart, Figure 7, shows “Plan Reviews vs. Project Acres”. Although there is a general decrease in the number of plans received, plan acreage is relatively stable or increasing:
Figure 7 E&S Plan Reviews and Project Acres 4000
250
3500 200
2500
150
2000
100
1500
1000 50 500
0
0 1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
11
2003
2004
Acres
Number of Plans
3000
Plan Reviews *Total Project Acres
Section A-C
Cumberland County Tributary Strategy
Two general trends were identified by the E&S staff, which has a combined experience of over 20 years: 1. Improved technology is being implemented in the Chapter 102 program and the NPDES program. 2. Education of contractors, townships, and municipalities is improving. In the past, under Phase I NPDES permitting, E&S BMPs generally consisted of a stormwater detention basin located in the lowest corner of the development project. However, the implementation of Phase II NPDES regulations has spurred innovative BMP technology and requires some projects to include Post Construction Stormwater BMPs. Post Construction Stormwater BMPs include infiltration practices such as wet ponds and constructed wetlands. Innovative approaches are also used to achieve desired infiltrations rates and filtration. These new Stormwater BMPs are eligible practices under PA’s Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy. The Conservation District is also working hard to educate townships and municipalities. To date, Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) have been signed with 23 of 33 townships and municipalities. The MOU is an agreement between the Conservation District and the township/municipality intended to inform each party of their responsibilities under the Chapter 102 E&S Program. Act 167 plans have also been developed for several watersheds in Cumberland County. Act 167 plans are stormwater management plans based on watershed boundaries. Watershed based plans make more sense than planning based on municipality boundaries, which often include only part of a watershed and may contradict other plans within the same watershed. Under an Act 167 plan, each municipality in the watershed must approve of the plan. Some municipalities in the County have been designated as MS4’s under Phase II of the NPDES program. This designation is based on population density (higher population densities = MS4’s). Municipalities receiving this designation are required to implement six minimum control measures designed to protect water resources from illegal discharge and stormwater runoff. As the county continues to experience overall growth, it becomes increasingly important to make sure that resources are protected according to the regulations. Due to intensifying development pressure and greater awareness for environmental protection, the E&S and NDPES programs continue to be two of the District's most demanding programs. Through these programs, the District reviews and approves E&S control plans for earthmoving sites. Inspections of the sites are conducted to assure the plans are properly implemented, controls are installed, and sequences are followed. By doing this, the District strives to meet its goal of minimizing accelerated erosion and sediment pollution to the waters of the Commonwealth as a result of earthmoving activities.
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