Cornell Small Farms Program released its report, 2012 Recommendations for Strategic Investments in New York’s Small Farms detailing the top priorities for enhancing the viability of small farms in New York.
The report is based on the February 29, 2012, 4th New York Small Farms Summit, hosted by the Cornell Small Farms Program in collaboration with Cornell Cooperative Extension, a statewide, interactive gathering that engaged more than 150 farmers, educators, policy makers and community members, and a survey of 573 farmers, educators and others.
The priorities are:
- Develop food distribution strategies (e.g. collaborative marketing, product pooling and trucking, food hubs) to expand small farm access to local and regional markets.
- Document economic impact of small farms on their communities to increase investment in and support of small farms.
- Develop new and expand existing livestock processing facilities and evaluate livestock processing regulations and policy for impact on small farms.
- Identify alternative financing strategies accessible to small farms.
- Advocate for greater investment in small farm services (i.e. research, extension and education).
- Develop and promote affordable energy conservation and renewable energy sources for small farms.
- Develop strategies to expand on agricultural land access.
- Promote Resources and Education targeting consumer education in local farms and food.
Download the full report and access supplemental material at the Cornell Small Farms Program website. Questions about the report may be directed to Anu Rangarajan, the Director of the Cornell Small Farms Program (ar47@cornell.edu) or the Small Farms Program Office at 607-255-9227 or smallfarmsprogram@cornell.edu.