The ever-evolving COVID-19 situation has prompted additional changes to Penn State Extension programming and operations across Pennsylvania, as well as other public services offered by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences.

But officials stress the college’s research – conducted through its nine academic departments and at its research and extension centers across the state – will continue in support of Pennsylvania agriculture, the state’s food system and the well-being of citizens in the commonwealth.

“As part of Penn State’s land-grant partnership with federal, state and county governments, our mission is to provide research-based knowledge that can help ensure a stable food supply and the success of essential, life-sustaining sectors of our economy,” Steven Loerch, the college’s senior associate dean said. “This is especially important during the current pandemic, so we are taking steps to be sure that our research enterprise can continue while safeguarding the health and safety of our personnel, partners and collaborators.”

Loerch also noted the college continues its educational mission through remote teaching of undergraduate and graduate courses, which is critical for workforce development.

Although the organization is limiting face-to-face programs, extension educators are shifting to provide extensive educational programs and information online which can be found on the Penn State Extension website.

Educators also will continue on-farm visits and research, while following disease-control guidelines to minimize risk.

These producer consultations and collaborative research projects are in support of what the state of Pennsylvania has designated as “essential agricultural businesses” – farms, food processors, grocers and other operations – that are critical in maintaining the food supply and are considered life-sustaining.

In accordance with Gov. Tom Wolf’s executive order concerning closures, Penn State Extension offices in all 67 counties are closed until further notice. However, county-based educators and staff will continue working remotely.

Residents who have questions or need assistance can call 877-345-0691.

In addition, county extension offices can be found on the Penn State Extension website.

County office webpages contain a directory with contact information for individual educators and staff members, who can assist, in many cases, by email or phone.

Other critical services the college will continue to provide include the following:

•Penn State Animal Diagnostic Laboratory. Due to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, ADL is currently operating with minimal staffing during regular business hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Be advised that turn-around-time for cases submitted to the lab may be delayed due to modified staffing. They continue to remain open as an essential service for Pennsylvania agriculture. Visit adl.psu.edu for updates, or call 814-863-0837.

•Agricultural Analytical Services Laboratory is fully operational and accepting all sample types as of June 8. This remains a fluid situation and any changes to the operational status will be posted on the website agsci.psu.edu/aasl.

•Spotted lanternfly call center. This center, which fields calls from residents reporting spotted lanternfly sightings or seeking information about spotted lanternfly management, quarantine regulations and related topics, is operating 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To report a sighting or get more information, the public can visit the Penn State Extension spotted lanternfly website or call 1-888-422-3359.

•Plant Disease Clinic. The clinic, which provides diagnoses of plant diseases for about 2,000 samples submitted annually by Pennsylvania agricultural producers, urban gardeners and homeowners, continues to operate but with limited hours. The lab currently is prioritizing samples of life-sustaining crops/plants, such as field crops, vegetables, tree fruit and small fruit.

•4-H youth development. Pennsylvania 4-H, administered by Penn State Extension, has suspended all in-person activities, events and club meetings until further notice, but virtual club meetings can be held online. In addition, 4-H has developed activities youth can complete at home or online.

•Penn State Berkey Creamery. The Berkey Creamery retail store is closed until further notice, but online orders can be placed on the Creamery website for shipping.

•Penn State Meats Laboratory. The Meats Lab, which ordinarily has weekly public sales during the spring and fall semesters, is closed until further notice.