Albany, NY – Assembly Agriculture Committee Chair Bill Magee (D-Nelson) announced a budget agreement that fully funds critical farm research, education and assistance programs aimed at helping family farmers and strengthening rural New York’s farm economy.

The Governor’s budget had some cuts in agricultural programs including, but not limited to FarmNet, Cornell Rabies Program and Farm Viability, along with eliminating funding for programs including the Maple Producers Association, Tractor Rollover Protection Program and a few others.

"I am pleased that we were able to work together to provide more funding for these valuable agricultural programs and fund new programs," Assemblyman Magee said. “I am looking forward to continue working with Senator Ritchie in the future to assure that agriculture in New York State remains viable."

Programs that have been restored or increased:

• $794,000 increase for a total of $1 million for the Apple Association
• $125,000 restoration for Maple Producers Association
• $200,000 increase for a total $584,000 for Farm Family Assistance (FarmNet)
• $1.1 million increase for a total of $1.5 million for Farm Viability Institute
• $200,000 increase for a total of $250,000 for Cornell Rabies Program
• $287,000 increase for a total of $1 million for Wine and Grape Foundation
• $100,000 restoration for Tractor Rollover Protection Program
• $500,000 restoration for Northern NY Agricultural Development
• $150,000 restoration for Eastern Equine Encephalitis Program

New Programs:

• $100,000 for Christmas Tree Farmers Association
• $200,000 for Berry Fruit Fly Research
• $100,000 for Turfgrass Stewardship Fund
• $220,000 for Dairy Profit Teams

In addition, the budget authorizes State agencies to make discretionary purchases of up to $200,000 worth of food that was grown, harvested or produced in New York State.