About 20% of New York State’s land area, or more than 7 million acres, is farmland. There are nearly 36,000 family farms producing some of the world’s best food, helping to drive the New York State economy. New York ranks high among the major agricultural states in the nation, ranking in the top 10 in production of 30 commodities. It is the second largest producer of apples, snap beans and maple syrup, third in cabbage, grapes and dairy, which is largest segment of the State’s agricultural sector, and fourth in pears.

The Department, through its various divisions and programs, promotes New York agriculture and its high-quality and diverse products, fosters agricultural environmental stewardship, and safeguards the State’s food supply, land and livestock to ensure the viability and growth of New York’s agriculture industries.

Website: https://www.agriculture.ny.gov/

Partner Educator: Frank Rooney