$10M Allocated To Protect Long Island And Mid-Hudson Farmland: Gov

LONG ISLAND, NY — To conserve 12,000 acres of farmland, Gov. Kathy announced Monday more than $38 million in grant programs will be spread across 40 projects throughout the state, including over $10 million combined for the Long Island and Mid-Hudson regions.

The purpose of the Farmland Protection Implementation Grants are to help with protecting the Empire State’s agricultural long-term viability, the governor said after a farm listening tour where she spoke to members of Bruno Farm, Long Island Farm Brewery and Water Drinker Family Farm in Manorville.

"We must continue to protect New York's precious farmland so our agricultural footprint can grow and so our producers can thrive for generations to come," said Hochul.

Food security, climate resiliency and source water protection are the top priorities of the state, according to the Governor’s Office.

"The Farmland Protection Implementation program promotes continued agricultural use of these lands and the 40 new projects that have been selected will help ensure the long-term sustainability of our state's farmers,” said Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado.

The FPI program has also expanded its eligibility criteria to include agroforestry, equine, and wine sectors to reflect New York's diverse agricultural industry, added the Gov.’s Office.

Long Island will receive more than $3.65 million to protect 15 acres of farmland. Under the source water category, Barras Farm (vegetable operation) will receive more than $1.656 million and Zoumas Farm, both in Suffolk County, will receive $2 million to protect 6 acres and 9 acres, respectively, from the Peconic Land Trust.

The Mid-Hudson Valley will receive $6.406 million to protect 768 million acres of farmland under the categories of equine, viable agricultural land and agroforestry in Dutchess, Orange, and Putnam counties with grants from the Dutchess Land Conservancy, the Town of Warwick and the Westchester Land Trust at Cedar Ridge Farm, Obercreek Farm, Primrose Hill Farm, Astorino Farm and Ryder Farm.

Hudson Valley state Sen. Michelle Hinchey said the FPI program will preserve farmland for the next generation.

“I am very happy to see the program expand to include the agroforestry, equine, and wine sectors; all valuable assets to New York's farm economy,” said Hinchey. “This year's state budget included significant funding for farmland protection, along with soil health and resiliency initiatives, ensuring our commitment to farmers and the land they farm."