October 22, 2014
By Stephanie West
Albany, NY – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced $17.6 million to protect more than 6,400 acres of farmland across New York State, which will maintain the land’s use for agricultural purposes and keep the land free from future development. The funds, which are made available through the Farmland Protection Implementation Program, will help preserve 21 farms in 12 counties across the state, and bring the total acreage under the program to approximately 59,000 acres.
“Farming supports jobs, businesses and economic activity in communities across New York, making it a major part of this state’s economy, as well a rich part of our heritage,” Governor Cuomo said. “As interest in our New York grown food and beverages continues to rise, this funding will ensure that this farmland will be preserved and a part of this critically important industry for generations to come.”
The Farmland Protection Implementation Program provides funds to protect viable farmland from conversion to non-farm uses. Since 1996, New York has awarded nearly $195 million for farmland protection projects, in 29 counties.
