Using NYS farmland for installation of solar arrays has presented farmers, municipalities and citizens with a huge dilemma over the past decade. We must develop solar energy strategies to meet climate goals but we also need to support the NYS agricultural economy and future farm and food security. American Farmland Trust (AFT) collaborated with farmers, local government officials, solar developers, and environmental organizations across the state to develop smart solar siting recommendations designed to avoid, minimize, and mitigate the impacts of solar development on New York’s most productive farmland and on farm viability. AFT has published their report, here: Smart Solar Siting on Farmland: Achieving Climate Goals While Strengthening the Future for Farming in New York. They presented their findings and recommendations in a recent webinar. View that recording here: Recorded AFT webinar.
Read some background for AFT’s research and recommendations here, at the New York Climate Policy website. The NYS Climate Scoping Plan is currently open to public comment. Familiarize yourself with NYS recommendations, policies and plans for renewable energy development, and participate in the public feedback process.