Since our Fall 2025 update, the Pennsylvania Deer Farmers Association has continued advancing our mission and reinforcing the foundation of private deer management across the Commonwealth.
At its core, PDFA is about healthy animals, strong rural economies, responsible land stewardship, and conservation-driven agriculture. Our members contribute not only to Pennsylvania’s agricultural landscape but to the preservation and improvement of open space and wildlife habitat throughout the state.
Modern deer farming is grounded in science. Implementing advancements in genetics, herd health management, and disease mitigation technologies remains the backbone of our breeding operations. We rely on data, research, and evolving tools to combat disease and protect herd integrity. These advancements ensure that our operations remain sustainable, responsible, and forward-thinking.
At the same time, ethical and regulated hunting continues to serve as the ultimate management tool that supports conservation goals, drives rural economic activity, and sustains the very habitat we work hard to protect. Hunting funds conservation, supports land preservation, and closes the loop on responsible wildlife management.
Advocacy & Education in Action
Addressing the Feed Tax Issue
We continue working closely with our lobbyist, the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, feed mills, and legislators to address the sales tax issue impacting Cervid Livestock Operations (CLOs). Ensuring fair and consistent tax treatment is essential for producer sustainability, and this remains a priority focus.
Pennsylvania Farm Show
PDFA proudly operated a booth for seven full days at the Pennsylvania Farm Show. With strong volunteer participation and high attendance, the Farm Show remains one of our most powerful platforms. It allows us to engage directly with the public, interact with policymakers and agency officials, and demonstrate that deer farming is a viable and important agricultural sector in Pennsylvania.
CWD & CCMZ Regulatory Progress
We continue to make steady progress on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) regulations. Our focus is ensuring that the CCMZ framework works for producers in the field—supporting responsible disease management without unnecessarily hampering operations. Dialogue with the Department of Agriculture remains ongoing as we advocate for practical, science-based policies. We are optimistic that the “herd plans” being developed for CCMZ producers are at the forefront of what the future may hold.
As we collectively continue our genetic progress in developing herds that are resistant to CWD, regulatory capture should wane, and we can move beyond this stage in the deer farming timeline.
Cornucopia at the Capitol
PDFA participated in the Cornucopia event at the State Capitol alongside other PA Preferred agricultural associations. Jarrid Barry and I had direct conversations with more than 40 attendees including Representatives, Senators, and staff and cabinet members -while sharing venison products and discussing land stewardship, rural economic impact, and deer farming. These face-to-face interactions are invaluable in building understanding and long-term relationships.
Education & Looking Ahead
We are proud to have brought back our Winter/Spring event, including the PA Winter Fall Classic. We secured outstanding speakers from NADR (Lindsey Kogut) and wildlife biologist Jason Snavely of Drop Tine Wildlife Consulting, who will speak on genetics, soil health, and pasture management—topics that directly support healthier animals, improved land management, and stronger operations.
Who We Are
PDFA stands for healthy animals, science-based breeding and disease mitigation, supporting rural and local economies, habitat improvement and land conservation, advocacy and education for producers, and responsible hunting as a conservation tool. Everything we do ties back to these principles.
Support PDFA
Our strength comes from member engagement. Advocacy only works when producers stand together. We encourage continued participation, attendance at events, and ongoing support of the Association. Together, we can continue advancing deer farming and protecting the future of our industry in Pennsylvania.
Respectfully,
Josh Newton
President
Pennsylvania Deer Farmers Association
