By Blake Jackson
The Northern New York Agricultural Development Program (NNYADP) has launched thirteen new on-farm research projects across Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties. These projects support the region’s key farming sectors, including dairy, maple syrup, local food production, environmental conservation, and overall farm sustainability.
These efforts are guided by the NNYADP Farmer Committee, which has over 80 volunteers who help prioritize research needs for the region. The initiative recently received $300,000 in funding from the New York State Legislature through the 2025–2026 budget, with strong support from the New York State Assembly.
“Having grown up on my family’s dairy farm, I understand the challenges our farms face on a daily basis,” said Assemblyman Billy Jones. “This is why I’m proud to stand up for farmers and secure funding in the budget every year to help continue the great work being done through the Northern New York Agricultural Development Program. Agriculture is a big part of the fabric that makes up the North Country, and these NNYADP grants will help bring the industry in our region to the next level.”
“The leadership of Assemblyman Billy Jones, New York State Assembly Agriculture Chair Donna Lupardo, Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush and their Ag Committee colleagues provide the funding that drives our shared mission to continue to grow northern New York’s unique resources as a farm-based economic powerhouse for New York State,” said NNYADP Co-Chair Joseph Giroux, Plattsburgh, New York.
“As a proud representative of the North Country and a member of the Assembly Agricultural Committee, I understand just how vital programs like the Northern New York Agricultural Development Program are to the success of our local farm economy. From research that improves herd health and crop resilience to innovations that protect our natural resources and expand market opportunities, this funding delivers real value to the farmers who feed our communities and fuel our economy. I will continue to advocate for strong investment in agricultural research that helps preserve our way of life, supports, farm families, and strengthens the long-term sustainability of agriculture in northern New York,” said Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush.
Project results from NNYADP are made available to the public and provide farmers with critical insights to handle weather challenges, pests, and economic demands.
The NNYADP is co-chaired by Jon Greenwood, Jon Rulfs, and Joe Giroux, with funding administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: New York, Business