Today, Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C,I-Deerpark) met with representatives from the NYS Farm Bureau to discuss the future of farming in New York State, with an emphasis on the black dirt farmers of Orange County. Brabenec pledged to advocate for the interests of farmers and always act with their interests at heart, especially with budget negotiations for 2015-16 fast approaching.

“This country was built on the backs of farmers, and their value in our society cannot be understated. I plan to be a partner in the creation of a beneficial agriculture and conservation policy,” said Brabenec. “New York is among the top 10 agriculture-producing states, but that success isn’t being passed on to these family-owned farms. They are struggling to survive under expensive regulations and a lack of substantial support from state government. I want to thank my friends from the Farm Bureau for a productive meeting. I look forward to working with them in the future.”