By Blake Jackson
The 2022 Census of Agriculture, conducted by the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), has shed light on the significant growth and impact of organic agriculture in New York State.
New York ranks ninth nationally in terms of organic sales, generating $225 million in 2022. The state boasts over 1,000 farms dedicated to organic production, showcasing a thriving organic agriculture sector.
This growth can be attributed to increasing consumer demand for organic products and a growing number of farmers adopting organic practices.
Key Findings from the 2022 Census:
- Strong Growth: New York's organic agriculture sector has experienced substantial growth, with sales increasing significantly since 2017.
- Diverse Production: New York farmers are producing a wide range of organic products, including fruits, vegetables, dairy, and livestock.
- Consumer Demand: The increasing demand for organic food has driven the growth of the state's organic agriculture sector.
The USDA's 2025 Organic Survey will provide even more detailed information about organic farms in New York and across the country. This survey will capture data on organic producers of all sizes, including those transitioning to organic practices.
As consumer demand for organic products continues to rise, New York State is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market.
By supporting organic farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture practices, the state can further strengthen its position as a leader in organic food production.
Photo Credit: istock-elenathewise
Categories: New York, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables