Pledges support for New York farmers
Candidate for Congress Kim Myers pledged support for New York farmers during an Agriculture Roundtable today in Cortland. More than a dozen local farmers and agribusiness experts turned out for an open discussion so Myers could listen to their needs as a candidate and future Congresswoman.
“For thousands of people here in the 22nd Congressional district farming is a way of life, not just a business,” said Myers. “But, that way of life has a huge impact on all of us who benefit from their hard work – and it’s hard work.”
According to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, about 23% or 7 million acres of New York land area is farmland. There are nearly 36,000 family farms producing some of the world’s best food. Agriculture is a major driver of the New York State economy. It is the second largest producer of apples and maple syrup, second in cabbage and snap beans, third in grapes, grape juice and wine, and fourth in pears and dairy – which is the largest segment of the agricultural sector.
Among those attending were dairy farmers, crop farmers, beef farmers, experts from Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Soil and Water Conservation District, and Farm Credit East – part of the federal Farm Credit System which is the largest agricultural bank in the country.
The topics discussed during the Roundtable included milk prices, drought, federal environmental regulations, soil erosion, pesticides and GMO’s. One attendee said, “We need practical solutions in the regulatory arena.” Another commented, “People are disconnected from where their food comes from.”
Myers told the crowd, “I understand your concerns and challenges, and I will address them with common sense in the House of Representatives.”