Fruit Research and Extension Center
The Fruit Research and Extension Center (FREC) in Biglerville is situated on 180 acres of fertile land in south-central Pennsylvania, in the heart of the major tree fruit production area of the state.
In addition to providing site-specific conditions for research, the facility increases opportunities for growers, consultants, consumers, and students to observe experiments and to consult with scientists. Extension specialists apply experimental findings to local conditions, and, in turn, make suggestions to scientists about new research needs.
Latest News
February 1, 2025
Krawczyk to Take the Helm of Penn State's Biglerville-based Research Facility
Grzegorz Krawczyk, Penn State Extension tree-fruit entomologist and research professor in the Department of Entomology, has been appointed as the new director of the Penn State Fruit Research and Extension Center in Biglerville, PA.
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January 18, 2025
After Impactful Career, Harper Retires from Fruit Research and Extension Center
Jayson Harper, director of the Fruit Research and Extension Center in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences since March 2019, retired from Penn State effective January 17, 2025.
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July 5, 2022
Stone Fruit ‘Sea Change’ — Video
Pennsylvania growers testing high-density peach plantings.
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July 7, 2021
New state historical marker highlights legacy of Penn State fruit research
The new Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission marker recently unveiled at Penn State's Fruit Research and Extension Center in Biglerville recognizes more than a century of research and education benefiting the state's fruit growers and consumers.
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Spotlight
Growing Innovations in the Fruit Industry
The tree fruit team works with stakeholder advisors to implement research-based programs to ensure a production-to-consumer system that is environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable.
Spotted Lanternfly
Learn about the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF), and what action you can take to stop the spread of this invasive insect that is threatening the northeastern United States, especially southeastern Pennsylvania.
Young Grower Alliance
YGA offers educational opportunities for growers taking over the family operation, developing a new enterprise or innovating production practices.
