Governor Hochul boosts New York agriculture at State Fair

By Blake Jackson

At the Great New York State Fair, Governor Kathy Hochul signed three significant pieces of legislation aimed at bolstering New York's agricultural sector. The new laws include:

• Legislation S.6320/A.6821: This measure permits the leasing of State land for sap production and tree tapping for up to ten years, enhancing investment returns for producers, including those in the maple industry. The Department of Environmental Conservation will oversee these leases.
• Legislation S.9232/A.10199: This law allows licensed farm wineries to use apples sourced from outside New York State for the production and sale of State-labeled cider under specific conditions, particularly in cases of crop loss.
• Legislation S.9248/A.7020A: This bill establishes the Beginning Farmer Advisory Board on Agriculture, aiming to attract and support new entrants to farming in New York.

Governor Hochul highlighted the importance of these measures during her remarks at the Fair, stating, “As we celebrate the State Fair, we recognize that New York’s agriculture is a central component to our state’s economy. With the signing of this legislation, we continue our mission to uplift this community and prove we are here to support them every step of the way.”

State Senator Rachel May praised the maple industry bill, noting, “Our maple tree tapping legislation is a great way to help the New York maple industry continue to grow and thrive. Allowing 10-year leases matches the reality of how the maple industry works, and I am happy we are able to get this common-sense legislation into law.”

Assemblymember Donna Lupardo added, “I’d like to thank the Governor for taking this opportunity to sign these important agricultural measures into state law today. Doing so at the Great New York State Fair reminds us of the central role agriculture plays in NY’s economy and how the Fair is a celebration of our farmers and producers.”

State Senator Michelle Hinchey also supported the Beginning Farmer Advisory Board, emphasizing, “As senior farmers retire, the future of New York’s food supply relies on our State to help new farmers enter the trade and establish successful businesses.”

Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki