Julian Mangano to lead AFT's New York policy efforts

By Blake Jackson

American Farmland Trust (AFT) is excited to announce the appointment of Julian Mangano as their New York Policy Manager. In this role, Julian will spearhead state-level policy initiatives aimed at protecting farmland, facilitating land access for new farmers, and strengthening farm-to-school programs.

With over seven years of experience in sustainable agriculture, policy advocacy, and organizational leadership, Julian brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to AFT.

Currently serving as a State Committee Member with the USDA Farm Service Agency, Julian has been instrumental in improving outreach and participation in USDA programs.

Mangano has also been appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture to the USDA Advisory Committee on Minority Farmers, where he advocates for policies that support socially disadvantaged farmers.

Julian's commitment to sustainable agriculture is further evidenced by his involvement with the National Young Farmers Coalition, where he has championed land access and farm viability policies in the upcoming Farm Bill.

Mangano has also contributed to the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets’ Diversity and Racial Equity Working Group and the Farmland Protection Working Group.

“I feel that New York has positioned itself to be a leader in enhancing sustainable agriculture and prioritizing initiatives to create a more resilient food system throughout the state,” said Julian Mangano, AFT New York Policy Manager. “I have always appreciated and valued the contributions that American Farmland Trust has made towards the various initiatives and programs that support the agricultural ecosystem of New York, and I am enthused to join an organization that is focused on the critical issues facing our Nation’s agricultural sector."

Aside from his policy work, Julian is a hands-on farmer, operating Della Terra Farm in northern New York. Here, he practices regenerative agriculture, manages farm operations, and engages with his local community.

Mangano also serves as the Farm Lead at Restore Forward, where he facilitates educational programs and promotes healing and reconciliation in farming communities.

“We are delighted to have Julian Mangano join our American Farmland Trust team as the New York Policy Manager,” said Linda Garrett, New York and New Jersey Regional Director for AFT. “Julian’s professional background in both advising USDA and New York state to better serve all farmers and his personal experience with agriculture makes him especially well-suited to this vital role and to advocate for a brighter future for farming in our region.”

Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer