Central New Yorkers have never had to look far for fresh and healthy food – from our farms to our producers, our agricultural sector is one of the strongest in the state. As a member of the Assembly Committee on Agriculture, I’ve always fought for our farmers because I know how hard they work and how big a role they play in our economy. That’s why I was thrilled that this year, the Empire Farm Days was held at Palladino Farms in Pompey, the first time the event has been hosted in Onondaga County in 34 years. The event is expected to remain at Palladino Farms for at least the next eight years.

Dating back to 1931 as a show for the Empire State Potato Growers, this annual event became the Empire Farm Days in 1967 as a showcase of all forms of agriculture. The event is the largest outdoor agricultural trade show in the Northeastern U.S. and is a showcase of all the latest tractors, farm implements and dairy innovations as well as working demonstrations, live animal seminars and over 600 exhibits with the latest agricultural information needed for successful farming. There, exhibitors were ready to talk about equipment, best growing practices, animal health products and ways to enhance production and efficiency.[1]

The trade show traditionally takes place over three days and typically draws around 400 vendors from around the world and at least 25,000 visitors that come for its displays. This provides a significant boost to the local economy, as it brings new clientele to local restaurants, hotels and stores. Hosting an event of this size is a huge victory for our local economy and, according to Visit Syracuse President and CEO Danny Liedka, the 2021 event could positively impact the region and increase revenue by at least $2.5 million.

The agricultural industry in New York has long been a cornerstone of the state’s economy and hosting events such as the Empire Farm Days helps to support this industry, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. To further support our hardworking farmers, I fought to include $35.78 million in the 2021-22 state budget for agricultural aid to localities, $8.37 million more than the executive proposal and $3.8 million more than the 2020-21 budget. This funding increase included $1.46 million for the Cornell University Diagnostic Lab and $1 million for the New York Farm Viability Institute. Furthermore, I fought to include $50 million for the Nourish NY program to help combat food insecurity and support our farmers.

The continued success of our agricultural industry is not only crucial for the economic security of New York State, but also helps keep our families healthy and nourished. I’ll continue working to ensure farmers are getting the support they need to continue producing products that are necessary for our communities. If you have any questions about this or any other community issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at 315-452-1115 or at StirpeA@nyassembly.gov.

[1] empirefarmdays.leetradeshows.com/message-from-show-manager