LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim March 15, 2016, as Agriculture Day in the State of New York, in
conjunction with the observance of National Agriculture Day

WHEREAS, Hardworking American farmers provide New York State, the
Nation, and much of the world with a safe, healthy, affordable and abun-
dant food supply; and
WHEREAS, Farmers boost our local economies by spending locally,
attracting tourism, and keeping money in our communities; and
WHEREAS, Agriculture is at the intersection of food, family, health,
community, environment, nature, science, homeland security, economic
concerns, and other significant things we care about; and
WHEREAS, The vast majority of farms and ranches in the United States,
and especially in New York State, are family owned and operated and have
deep historical roots in their communities; and
WHEREAS, Farmers provide fresh, locally grown food to our urban neigh-
borhoods through an increasing number of farmers markets, CSAs, and
urban farms, improving food options in our cities and creating better
understanding between urban and rural communities; and
WHEREAS, Farmers can be important stewards of our natural resources,
ensuring clean water, healthy soils and increased use of renewable ener-
gy with sound, sustainable agricultural practices; and
WHEREAS, Agriculture in New York State generates over $5 billion a
year in commodity sales and creates 196,000 jobs on and off the farm;
and
WHEREAS, Though the average age of an American farmer is still 57,
young and beginning farmers are literally putting down roots to be the
next generation to feed our families, and returning veterans are finding
new and healing ways to rebuild their lives through agriculture; and
WHEREAS, The celebration of National Agriculture Day is in recognition
of all the farmers that feed us and our families every day and of the
importance of agriculture as a vital industry and economic driver in New
York State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 15, 2016, as
Agriculture Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the obser-
vance of National Agriculture Day, honoring and recognizing the impor-
tant contributions of all branches of farming to the health, economic
well-being, environment, beauty, and future of New York State; and
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.