By Blake Jackson
Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. has officially introduced the 2025-2030 Agricultural Strategic Plan, a detailed guide aimed at enhancing the county’s agricultural economy, conserving farmland, and expanding support for local farmers and agribusinesses.
“This plan is a bold step toward ensuring that agriculture remains a cornerstone of Oneida County’s economy and identity,” Picente stated. “We are not just preserving farmland we are building a system that supports our farmers, grows our food economy, connects our communities and makes Oneida County a model for agricultural innovation and resilience.”
Created through collaboration with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County and LaBella Associates, the plan outlines five main strategic goals:
- Farmland Preservation and Protection
- Economic Development and Business Support
- Agritourism and Local Food Promotion
- Workforce Development and Farm Transition
- Sustainability and Climate Resilience
Alongside these objectives, the plan presents 25 project ideas, with four identified as top priorities for immediate action:
- Helping farmers access economic development tools like grants, tax incentives, and revolving loan programs.
- Launching a formal apprenticeship or internship initiative to train future agricultural professionals.
- Conducting a specialized hazard mitigation analysis for agriculture to help farms prepare for climate and environmental threats.
- Encouraging municipalities to embrace agriculture-friendly policies using the county’s Agriculture-Friendly Municipal Guide.
“These priority projects are designed to generate meaningful impact, particularly in areas like supply chain growth, land use planning, and workforce development,” said James Genovese, Oneida County Commissioner of Planning.
“By aligning our agricultural strategy with broader economic, educational and climate goals, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient and prosperous farming community.”
To manage the rollout of these initiatives, a new Agricultural Implementation Committee will be formed. This committee, co-led by Oneida County and Cornell Cooperative Extension, will oversee five working groups aligned with each strategic focus area.
Backed by research, economic analysis, and community feedback, this plan builds on past efforts such as the 2017 Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan and the Dairy Sustainability Action Plan.
“This is more than a plan-it’s a commitment to our farming families, our rural economy, and the next generation of growers,” Picente added.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sizsus
Categories: New York, Government & Policy