Over 9 million acres of New York farmland form the foundation for the state’s $44 billion farm and food economy, but this irreplaceable land is under threat from development. Between 2001 and 2016, New York lost or fragmented over a quarter million acres of farmland, half of which was considered the state’s best quality farmland. People migrating into rural communities during the pandemic and accelerated solar development have amplified development pressure on farmland across the state.  

At the same time, one-third of New York’s farmers are over the age of 65. They own or operate almost 2 million acres of farmland that will be at risk of being sold for development as farmers retire in the coming months and years. It’s critical to support these farmers in transitioning their land to a new generation of farmers.  

Policymakers in Albany are currently working to negotiate the state budget. Act NOW to ask your state representative to support funding for New York’s Farmland Protection and Farmland for a New Generation New York (FNG-NY) programs, which help New York farmers keep their land in farming and bring a diverse, new generation of farmers onto the land.  

Take Action: With just one click, send a customized letter directly to your state representatives in support of strong funding for protecting our farmland and keeping farmers on the land in New York! Please enter your information below.