HARRISBURG –Bradford County dairy farmer James Van Blarcom has received support from the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee to serve another term on the Pennsylvania Milk Board (PMB), according to Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23). Yaw introduced Van Blarcom, his constituent, during the committee’s meeting on Tuesday at the State Capitol.
“As a long-serving leader in Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry, Jim brings not only decades of hands-on experience as a dairy farmer, but also proven commitment to public service and advocacy,” Yaw said. “I fully support his reappointment and look forward to the continued impact of his leadership on Pennsylvania’s dairy policy.”
Van Blarcom was first unanimously confirmed by the Senate in 2014. His nomination was again submitted to the state Senate by Gov. Josh Shapiro this year. He owns and operates a 500-cow dairy farm with his two sons-in-law and co-owns a 5,600-head hog facility with his brother.
Beyond his own operation, Van Blarcom has served on the Bradford County Conservation District, the State Conservation Commission and as a school director and founding member of the Troy Area School District Foundation. He has also been active in the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, the American Dairy Association and the Dairy Council.
His contributions have earned numerous honors, including the Chesapeake Bay Clean Water Award and the Bradford County Outstanding Operator Award.
The PMB is an independent agency that establishes minimum milk prices, minimum wholesale prices and minimum retail prices. The three-member Board is overseen by two farmer members and one consumer member.
Van Blarcom’s nomination will now head to the full Senate for consideration.
For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Elizabeth Weitzel
717-787-3280