By Blake Jackson
Farms are a cornerstone of New York’s economy, providing both critical food supply and significant economic benefits.
This is particularly true for the North Country, where farm product sales reached over $1.2 billion in 2022, making it the second-largest agricultural region in the state.
However, New York’s agricultural sector faces challenges, especially highlighted in a recent report by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.
“New York’s diverse farms are an essential part of the state’s economy, but there are increasing challenges that are changing the agricultural landscape,” DiNapoli said. “Volatile commodity prices, labor pressures and extreme weather are adding to the unpredictability of farming that is contributing to the consolidation and the loss of farms. Policymakers must consider the ways in which state programs and policies affect this sector.”
The report, which draws on the latest data from the 2022 United States Department of Agriculture Census, sheds light on farming in upstate New York, Long Island, and New York City. It delves into state programs and tax incentives designed to support farmers.
Key findings for the North Country include a nearly 14% decrease in the number of farms from 2017 to 2022, with 3,612 farms remaining in 2022.
The region also ranks third in the state for farmland, with over 1 million acres dedicated to farming. In addition to being a leading poultry and egg producer, Clinton County is also New York’s top dairy producer. The North Country leads in maple syrup, hay, and other crops such as grass seed and hops.
The state faces a troubling trend of farmland loss, as land is converted to residential, commercial, and industrial uses, including solar electric generation facilities.
The report notes that New York’s farms paid $6.2 billion in expenses in 2022, an increase of $1.9 billion from 2017, with labor costs rising by 68%.
DiNapoli’s recommendations include bolstering marketing support for farmers, enhancing research into climate-resilient crops, and continuing to evaluate policies to protect farmland from being used for renewable energy projects.
Furthermore, policies that support new farmers, including training programs, should be promoted to help sustain the state's agricultural future.
Photo Credit: gettyimage-jamesbrey
Categories: New York, Business