New York Farm Bureau Members Honor Seward

ALBANY, 03/10/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) was recently honored as a recipient of  the “Circle of Friends” award from the New York Farm Bureau, one of the state’s leading and most respected agricultural advocacy organizations.

“Agriculture is our state’s number one industry.  It is vital to our economy and our way of life,” said Senator Seward.  “It is a great honor to work with our upstate farmers and agribusinesses and I will continue to do all I can to assist in their growth.” 

The New York Farm Bureau award is based upon Senator Seward’s voting record on issues of importance to New York agriculture, as well as other evidence of legislative support during the 2014 legislative session.  

“Last year I fought for the  ‘Young Farmers NY’ initiative which will help young farmers take over the family farm and continue our state’s proud farming tradition.  I was also able to successfully add funding to the state budget to support key ag programs that our farmers depend on” Seward added.   

Just like the farmers Senator Seward supports, he continues to forge ahead, joining with his senate colleagues to advocate for the new “Grown in New York” initiative.  The multi-part plan includes increased state funding for key agricultural programs, an expansion of the “Young Farmer” program, and new initiatives to help farmers find new markets for their products.

“Ag-related businesses are experiencing a real boom in New York, and we need to add state funding and reduce government red tape so our farmers can take full advantage of this positive trend.  While some strides have been made in recent years, just like our farmers, we must keep working,” added Seward.

New York is home to 36,000 family farms that contribute to the state’s more than $5.7 billion agriculture industry.  

-30-

Photo caption:  Members of the Otsego County Farm Bureau board of directors congratulate Senator Seward for being named a 2014 New York Farm Bureau Circle of Friends award winner.  From left, Senator Seward, Barbara Bayes, Harold Palmer, Darin Hickling, and Paul Greer.