2013 was an important year for agriculture in New York. In addition to bountiful harvests of several major crops and the launch of commercially important new varieties of apples and grapes, the state also surpassed California to become the number one producer of yogurt in the nation. State leaders, led by Governor Andrew Cuomo, have identified agriculture as a key industry to spur much needed economic renewal in the upstate economy, as evidenced by the recent Yogurt and Beer, Wine and Spirits Summits hosted by the Governor that have done much to generate new interest and investment in these sectors of the state’s food and agriculture economy.
During his annual “State of the State” address this afternoon, Cuomo recommitted his administration to continuing to advance agriculture as a key driver of upstate growth by announcing his support for a second round of the previous summits, as well as the convening of a new summit focused on linking upstate agriculture producers with downstate consumers.
CALS Dean Kathryn Boor, who has long been an outspoken advocate for the role of agriculture in generating jobs and prosperity in upstate communities, applauded the Governor’s announcement.
“Governor Cuomo’s strong support for agriculture in New York has been a key driver leading the impressive success the industry has had in recent years,“ Boor said. “Through targeted state investments, thoughtful regulatory changes, and events like the summits, the Cuomo Administration has worked closely with farmers, industry leaders and countless other stakeholders to develop important new ways to remove barriers to growth and generate new opportunities for New York agriculture. I applaud the Governor’s efforts and can attest to the productivity and success that can result from this kind of attention and collaboration. His proposal to host another round of summits is great news for all New Yorkers.”
