New York Farm Bureau News Bytes

In this episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes, we sit down with Adam Howell, outreach director at NY FarmNet, and Audrey McDougall, a family consultant, to talk about the essential services NY FarmNet provides to farmers across New York State—from financial planning and business transitions to mental health support and educational training. Recorded on location at North Riding LLC in Cleveland, NY, this conversation highlights the deeply personal and hands-on approach NY FarmNet takes to help farm families navigate both everyday challenges and life-changing decisions.

In this episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes, we sit down with Deanna Fox, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the organization. Deanna shares her personal connection to agriculture and discusses her vision for leading the New York Farm Bureau. With a background in journalism, public affairs, and communications, Deanna brings a unique perspective to the role. She emphasizes the importance of listening to members, advocating for policies that support New York agriculture, and inspiring the next generation of farmers. Deanna also highlights the value of Farm Bureau membership, which extends beyond advocacy to include networking opportunities and resources. She encourages members to engage with the organization and share their ideas and concerns.

In this episode, we talk with Phillip Grant, CEO of the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx. Hunts Point is one of the largest produce distribution hubs in the world, feeding millions of people daily in New York City and the surrounding region. Phillip discusses the inner workings of this massive market, including how produce comes from farmers across New York state, the U.S., and 49 other countries. He shares details about the market's $600 million redevelopment plan to expand capacity by 30% and make it easier for local farmers to get their products into the New York metro area. The conversation highlights the importance of the relationship between the market and New York's agricultural community. Phillip emphasizes his efforts to strengthen ties with farmers and NY Farm Bureau as the revitalized Hunts Point aims to increase its share of locally-grown produce from the current 10% level.

In this episode of the News Bytes podcast, Kristen Almer, from the Ride Safe Foundation, shares her nephew Logan's heartbreaking story - how in just 3 minutes, the 11-year-old's life was tragically cut short in an ATV accident.She has worked in motorsports industry for three decades and understands why safety is paramount. Her emotional recounting, paired with staggering statistics on child fatalities, will make you re-think where you keep your ATV's key.Kristen reveals the common hazards that lead to these preventable tragedies and simple steps ALL parents and farmers must take to keep loved ones safe around these vehicles.0:00 - Intro and overview of ATV safety issue2:15 - Kristen Ulmer's background in motorsports industry4:40 - The tragic story of Kristen's nephew Logan's fatal ATV accident11:20 - Sobering statistics on child ATV fatalities and injuries15:50 - Common factors in child ATV accidents (no helmets, improper machine size, rollovers, etc.)22:15 - Safety precautions - securing keys, safety gear, training, not riding alone27:40 - The mission of the Ride Safe Foundation31:05 - Partnering with Nationwide Insurance to promote ATV safety education33:20 - How listeners can get involved and access safety resources36:00 - Kristen's passionate call-to-action to prioritize ATV safety38:20 - Concluding thoughts and outro

In this episode of the NYFB News Bytes Podcast we explore the highly successful Taste New York program. We sit down with Jessica Henesy from the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets to discuss how Taste NY has grown over its 10 years to promote New York's diverse agricultural products.Learn about the program's $100 million economic impact by connecting consumers to local farms and food businesses. Jessica shares inspiring success stories and highlights plans for Taste NY to further support producers through resources like product development and marketing.

In this episode, we, talk with Jared Buono, Director of the Hudson Valley Research Lab and the critical role that agricultural research plays in helping farmers adopt new technologies, methods, and practices to improve sustainability, efficiency, and resilience. Buono provides insights into the lab's work on addressing issues like invasive species, plant diseases, and the impacts of climate change. He also highlights exciting projects like integrating solar panels into apple orchards and developing new crop varieties suited for the region's conditions. This fascinating conversation underscores the importance of continued investment in agricultural research to drive innovation and ensure a viable food system for New York and beyond.

In this episode we interview Kymara Lonergan, owner of Thunder Horse Hollow Farm in Ulster County, New York. Kymara shares her unique story of raising emu, the large flightless birds that are cousins of the ostrich. She discusses how she got started farming emu, inspired by her family's agricultural roots in Connecticut. Kamara provides insights into emu behaviors, their diet, housing needs, challenges of raising them in New York's climate, and the growing market for emu meat and oil products. She highlights the benefits of emu oil for skin care and how farms can diversify into emu farming. Kamara also talks about the role of New York Farm Bureau in supporting her farm, lobbying efforts, and promoting education around niche livestock farming. It's a fascinating look at a lesser-known but promising aspect of New York agriculture.Outline:On some podcast players you should be able to click the timestamps to jump to that time.(00:00) - Intro to Thunder Horse Hollow Farm (01:13) - Kamara's Agricultural Roots (02:59) - The Allure of Emu Farming (04:39) - Getting Started with Emus (07:32) - Emu Behavior & Care (12:46) - The Benefits of Emu Products (16:36) - Challenges of Emu Farming (23:23) - The Importance of Agricultural Education (28:37) - Farm Bureau's Support (33:48) - Advice for Prospective Emu Farmers (35:55) - Outro & Contact Info

In this episode we talk with Eileen Jensen about her experience participating in the American Farm Bureau Federation's Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) program. Jensen shares how the intensive two-year program challenged and equipped her to be a more confident communicator and advocate for agriculture. From hands-on media training in New York City to learning about policy development in Washington D.C. and stakeholder engagement in Missouri, the PAL program provided Jensen a national network of agriculture advocates while strengthening her skills in public speaking, writing, and telling her personal story. Jensen enthusiastically recommends the program to others looking to elevate their advocacy efforts and highlights the upcoming March 25th application deadline for the next PAL class.https://www.fb.org/initiative/pal-partners-in-advocacy-leadership - Learn more about PAL

In this candid interview, Olivia Fuller, a fourth-generation farmer from Washington County, New York, shares her personal experience of transitioning Fuller Acres, a diversified beef and maple farm, from her father to herself. Olivia discusses the emotional and logistical challenges she and her family faced during the multi-year process, including navigating conversations around the farm's future, diversifying operations, and ultimately transferring ownership. She highlights the importance of open communication, trust, and respecting the legacy of the senior generation while also honoring their vision. Olivia's story provides valuable insights and lessons for farm families considering generational transitions, emphasizing the need for patience, perseverance, and a shared commitment to keeping the farm in operation.

In the first episode of 2024 we talk with Jeff Williams, New York Farm Bureau's Director of Public Policy. Jeff outlines the key issues facing NY agriculture this year and how the Farm Bureau is working to support farmers statewide.Through lobbying efforts, community outreach across NY, and engagement initiatives, the Farm Bureau gives farmers a voice in policymaking. Jeff provides insider expertise on the most pressing policy challenges and how all of us can get involved to drive progress.This is a must-listen episode for anyone who cares about the future of New York agriculture!

In this episode of News Bytes, we dive into the interactive war game that will take place at the upcoming New York Farm Bureau State Convention on December 4-6 in Tarrytown. We speak with Danielle Cummins and Ken Gilliam of Aimpoint Research about how they will lead convention attendees through this unique business strategy exercise.The war game will present members with scenarios and challenges facing New York agriculture. Participants will work together to brainstorm solutions, think creatively, and take action through simulated decision-making. The goal is to uncover new opportunities and position farms for future success. Danielle and Ken explain how the interactive format will engage members and get them networking and collaborating.The convention will also feature workshops, speakers, networking events, and the annual meeting. Learn more about the event and register to attend at https://staycon.nyfb.org. Join us for an unconventional convention experience!

In this week's episode we hear directly from New York farmers on why the Farm Bill matters. Judi Whittaker, Barb Hanselman, and David Fisher share how key programs in the legislation like crop insurance, conservation funding, and nutrition assistance support agriculture and food security across America.

Did you know that farm owners are legally responsible for providing workers' compensation insurance for all employees, even when using farm labor contractors? The Advocate for Business at the New York State Workers Compensation Board, Anthony Tomaselli, joins us to share insights on farm workplace safety and insurance requirements. Tomaselli addresses common issues like insurance coverage when using farm labor contractors and offers clear direction on legal obligations, filing timely injury claims, maintaining detailed records, and avoiding lapses in required coverage.He stresses the importance of actively engaging workers to identify and mitigate hazards and provides tips for implementing safety plans, shopping insurance rates, and more.

In this episode, we talk with American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall during his visit to Western New York. In this episode, President Duvall shares insights from his conversations with local farmers about their issues, including natural disasters, supply chain disruptions, and inflation. As a third-generation farmer, Duvall understands firsthand the challenges farmers are up against. Tune in to hear Duvall's perspective on agriculture today and what lies ahead as he continues to be a leading voice for American farmers and ranchers.

Strategic planning is critical for any organization to thrive in an ever-changing world. To gain insight into developing an effective strategic plan, we recently sat down with Mike Carter, Assistant Vice President for Corporate Strategy at Nationwide Insurance. Carter, who helped guide the Farm Bureau through its own strategic planning process, shared his expertise at the organization's Agricultural Summit in Syracuse. In this podcast episode, Carter explains what strategic planning entails, why it's important, and how to approach the process. Tune in to hear practical tips that any organization can apply to position itself for future success.

In this episode, we visit the Bittner Singer Orchards in western New York.This 400 acre orchard grows delicious stone fruits like cherries, peaches and nectarines. The day we toured, workers were picking regina cherries, whose sweet-tart flavor right off the tree makes them a favorite.Picking delicate fruit quickly and carefully is skilled labor. Most workers are Mexican migrants who join the farm each summer through the federal H-2A guest worker program. This involves considerable time and expense for the farm owner.These seasonal laborers are vital for getting summer fruit from orchard to market. We talk with the Jim Bittner about life on the fruit farm and what it takes to make fruit farming a reality.

In this episode, we talk with Cristian Gilcess, a young agricultural enthusiast from Queens, New York. Despite growing up in an urban environment, Cristian developed a passion for agriculture through his high school's agricultural program and his involvement in the FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapter. We talk about Cristian's agricultural journey, his experiences as a state FFA officer, and his aspirations to pursue a career in agriculture policy. We touch upon the growing interest among young people in agriculture and the need to expand the understanding of agriculture beyond traditional farming. The episode highlights the exciting opportunities that exist in the agriculture industry and the enthusiasm of the next generation in shaping its future.

In this week's episode we chat about the end of the legislative session in the state of New York, specifically the bills that impact farmers across the state. Our repeat guest, Jeff Williams, the Director of Public Policy at the New York Farm Bureau, provides valuable insights into the implications of these bills and the dynamic legislative process. This episode breaks down the essential details that will shape the agricultural landscape in New York and offers perspective on the implications for the future of agriculture in the state.

In today's episode we speak with dairy farmer and registered dietitian Abigail Copenhaver about the tasty benefits of dairy. Get ready for an insightful discussion on the benefits of chocolate milk, why lactose milk is often sweeter, and how dairy plays a crucial role in athletic recovery. Tune in and discover the secrets of this delicious and nutritious beverage during this special month dedicated to all things dairy.

Join us as we delve into the intricacies of the Farm Bill, a significant legislation that provides essential funding for USDA programs supporting farmers and national food assistance initiatives. In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Williams, the Deputy Director of Public Policy and National Affairs Director at New York Farm Bureau to better understand the crucial role the Farm Bill plays in shaping agriculture and its impact on communities, particularly in New York. Whether you're a farmer, a policymaker, or simply interested in the agricultural landscape, this episode sheds light on why the Farm Bill should matter to everyone.

Join chef and owner of The Marshal, Charlie Marshal, as he takes us on a captivating journey through New York's thriving wine industry. Discover the exceptional flavors and varietals that have propelled New York wines to national acclaim, and gain insights into the challenges faced by a restaurant owner in New York City. Tune in and raise a glass to the vibrant promising future of New York's wine scene.

In this episode, we are joined by Tara Vander Dussen, a dairy farmer from New Mexico who is also an environmental scientist, blogger, and podcaster. As an outsider to New York's dairy farming community, Tara offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by dairy farmers in the West and how they compare to those in New York.We discuss Tara's farm, her views on sustainability, and the role of dairy farming in promoting environmental conservation. Join us for an insightful conversation with Tara, also known as the New Mexico Milk Maid, as we explore the intersection of dairy farming and sustainability.To learn more about Tara's work, visit her website: https://taravanderdussen.com/

In this episode, we dive into the growing world of adult-use cannabis in New York state. We'll be speaking with Seth Jacobs, of Slack Hollow Organics, is a farmer who's growing the crop and Renee St. Jaques, senior director of public policy for New York Farm Bureau and staff representative to the organization's cannabis committee. Seth, has been growing vegetables at his farm outside of Albany for nearly four decades. Last year, he added a new crop to the mix: adult-use cannabis. Renee is a leading expert on the topic, and she'll help us unpack the challenges and opportunities facing New York's nascent cannabis industry.

In this episode of the News Bytes Podcast, we speak with Henry Mondschein, an Investment Advisor Representative of GWN Securities, Inc. who works with Nationwide Insurance's Land As Your Legacy Program.We discuss the importance of farmland transition for farmers who want to continue their family legacy and pass down their livelihood to future generations.We learn about the financial and emotional decisions involved in the process and the mission of Land as Your Legacy to help farm families through this transition. Join us as we explore the complexities of farmland transition and the resources available to make this process easier.To get in touch with Henry please contact him at: hmondschein@connectfg.com

Welcome to today's episode, where we are privileged to have a conversation with Dick McGuire, a true legend in New York agriculture.With a career spanning over several decades, Dick's journey from farming in an era before tractors to serving as the state's Commissioner of Agriculture and President of New York Farm Bureau, is nothing short of remarkable. As a man who has played a critical role in shaping agricultural policy in the United States, his experience and knowledge are invaluable.In this episode, we sit down with Dick to learn more about his storied career and to gain insights from his experiences. Join us as we explore the past, present, and future of agriculture with one of its greatest champions.

In this podcast, we sit down with Roxi Beck, the consumer engagement director for the Center for Food Integrity, a coalition of more than 150 members and project partners representing the diversity of today's food system and president of Look East, to better understand the Center's mission to build trust and confidence in today's food system by engaging with consumers and stakeholders.We also explore the Center's latest report on Generation Z, a group poised to change the face of food, and how the Center is using research to guide its efforts to better connect with consumers and build a stronger food system.Tune in to learn more about the Center for Food Integrity and its mission to ensure a sustainable and transparent food system for all.Music:The Onyx - Blue Dot Sessions

Farms face many economic and political hurdles in order to provide the nutrients we need. Beyond providing local food and open spaces, they are integral to the financial success of our communities and state. In this episode we speak with Robert Duffy, head of the greater Rochester chamber of commerce and former New York State lieutenant governor and Veronica Nigh, senior economist with the American Farm Bureau. We delve into the numbers and market forces at play and explore what it means to be a farmer in the northeastern United States.

Brett Sciotto, CEO of Aimpoint Research, was a keynote speaker at this years NYFB annual conference. He encouraged attendees to be innovative and consider the evolving needs of customers in the agriculture and food industry. He believes that those who respond to the changing demands will have a competitive advantage.We sat down with Brett after his speech to ask him what all of this will mean for our farmers. For starters, here is more about Aimpoint research

Welcome to season 2 of the New York Farm Bureau News Bytes Podcast. We are excited to be back for our second season and hope you are ready for a jam-packed season full of informative, entertaining, and educational content about the New York Farm Bureau World.On this episode, we dive into the NYFB Public Policy Priorities with the Director of Public Policy, Jeff Williams. The legislative session has just begun and the New York Farm Bureau released its state legislative priorities for 2023. These are major issues that our member farmers and State Board will focus on in the coming months to make a difference for New York agriculture and our food system.For more information about NYFB and the complete list of Public Policy Priorities, please visit our website at www.nyfb.org

The New York Farm Bureau has an exciting event planned on December 6 in Buffalo that will examine what agriculture may look like in the next decade. The conference is called Focusing on the Future of Northeast Agriculture….adapt, advance, achieve.To learn more about the event, we spoke with Henry Talmage who is NYFB”s Director of Insurance and Business Development.

As technology, research, and new ideas continue to transform agriculture, there is an effort here in the State to help the next wave of entrepreneurs and creators increase agriculture and economic development in upstate New York. It's called Grow New York.The goal is to cultivate growth and innovation in agriculture to benefit farms, our food supply, and regional economies.In this week's episode, we speak with the program's Director Jenn Smith to discuss Grow New York.

New York State legislators wrapped up farm tours in the Mohawk Valley and western New York. The mission: Invite lawmakers from New York City to visit with farmers and learn more about the issues affecting agriculture.Today we talk with two of these lawmakers.First, we speak with Senator George Borrello, who represents the 57th senate district in western New York, and partnered with Assemblyman Chris Tague of the upper Hudson and Schoharie Valleys to host a legislative farm tour that has become popular with their colleagues. Both serve as ranking members on their respective agriculture committees.Next up is Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, who hosted a similar one-day tour in her area. She represents the 119th assembly district that includes the city of Utica and stretches West to Rome, NY. She too serves on her chamber's agriculture committee, and her family has a Christmas Tree farm.

We are fortunate in New York state to have the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health based in Cooperstown. The staff offers a number of services, training, and financial assistance for farms.This week on New York farm Bureau's News Bytes, we speak with NYCAMH's director, Julie Sorensen about NYCAMH's mission of enhancing agricultural and rural health by preventing and treating occupational injury and illness.

New York grows about 30 million bushels a year, from about 600 orchards across the state. Apples are sold, ready to eat right off the tree while others, make their way into cider, apple sauce, and hard ciderIn today's episode we talk with Laurie Ten Eyck . Laurie and her family run Indian ladder farms in Altamont just outside of Albany. It's a family farm that has certainly changed a lot through the years

This week marks national suicide prevention month. It is an important reminder that all of us need to think about our mental health as much as our physical health as well as pay attention to the warning signs that our loved ones or friends may be struggling.We begin today's discussion with Jennifer Schwytzer, a family consultant with NY FarmNet who talks about a new grant from USDA that is helping FarmNet train others to recognize when someone may be struggling. We then talk with Tim Bigham and Todd Heyn, both NYFB county managers, taking part in the new FarmNet Mental Health First Aid Course.Resources:NY FarmNet: https://www.nyfarmnet.org/ or call 1-800-547-3276.The National Suicide and Crisis Hotline: https://988lifeline.org/ or call 9-8-8American Farm Bureau Federation Farm State of Mind program: https://www.fb.org/land/fsom

The New York state fair is in full swing and Syracuse. Fairgoers are walking the barn, seeing prize livestock and blue ribbon vegetables on display. This includes seeing the birth of a calf at the dairy cow birthing center, but that experience is meant to be much more than witnessing an "udder miracle", as it's called.We sat down in the middle of the birthing center tent with Eileen Jensen, the executive director of the New York animal agriculture coalition that organizes the birthing center.

Last week, we explored the diversity of agriculture on Long Island. It is an incredibly diverse sector ranging from fruit and vegetable farms, to wineries, aquaculture, nurseries, equine and so much more. If there is one thing they all have in common, it is support from agricultural professionals that assist in some of the more technical needs to better manage their operations. Today we talk with Nora Catlin, PhD, the ag program director from Cornell Cooperative Extension, as well as Anne Marie Colabro, the agronomist from the Suffolk County Soil and water district.

In this week's episode we explore Long Island, NY.With close to 500 farms covering 30-thousand acres, this area is one of the major productive areas in all of New York. Farms share the increasingly developed area with more and more residential home, which means more customers but also development pressures for the farmers.Featured in this episode is Long Island Farm Bureau's Administrative Director, Rob Carpenter and Laurie McBride, Farm Stand Manager for Wickham's Fruit Farm on the East End of Long Island.

In this third and final installment from the NYFB “Future of Agriculture Summit,” we continue the conversation about reaching more urban lawmakers.We talk with Senator Michelle Hinchey, representing the Northern Hudson Valley in the Catskills and rural parts of the capital region around Albany and Schenectady.After that, hear from Assemblymember Donna Lupardo from the Binghamton area. Lupardo chairs the agriculture committee in her chamber and has taken a great interest in food and farming.

In this second installment from the NYFB “Future of Agriculture Summit” we continue the conversation around labor on the farm.We talk with Richard Stup, Agricultural Workforce Specialist in the Horticulture Section at Cornell Cooperative Extension.We also hear from NYFB's National Affairs director about a series of state wide listening sessions that provide an opportunity for farmers to give feedback to state and federal officials on what farm bill programs are important to them.

This week's show takes a look back at last week's NYFB “Future of Agriculture Summit” and the conversation around the need for more applied research and agricultural education. We talk with Julie Suarez, the Assoc. Dean for Land-Grant Affairs at Cornel University CALS and Tara Berescik Burke, President of the NY Assn. of Agriculture Educators.

This week, we are highlighting New York Farm Bureau member Black Button Distilling, started in Rochester by its founder and master distiller, Jason Barrett, more than a decade ago. He has developed award winning bourbon, gin and vodka, using New York products. He is now going a step further by buying his own farm to raise Juniper trees for gin and Oak trees to construct his bourbon barrels.

In episode 10 of the NYFB News Bytes podcast our roving Farm Bureau county manager Mark James sits down with the father-daughter duo behind the Tin Barn Brewery, Dale and Lauren Van Pamelen.Other news:USDA National Ag Statistic Service for the week ending Sunday, July 10Highlights from the New York State Agricultural Fatality Report: 2019-2021Music credits: Palms Down, Denzel Sprak, Decompression by Blue Dot Sessions

In this episode of the New York Farm Bureau News Bytes Podcast the 2023 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the year contest applications are here!Also in this episode:USDA's June 30th Acreage Report Cornell issues its final dairy farm business summary and analysis program reportCommissioner Richard Ball announces funding to schools through New York's Farm-to-School programNYFB Young Farmer and Rancher competitive events applications due soon

In todays episode we site down with NYFB's Public Policy Director, Jeff Williams to talk about the upcoming event: The Future of New York. Agriculture. The summit will address workforce development to attract highly skilled workers, touch on the importance of applied research to make farms more efficient and sustainable, outreach to urban lawmakers, along with climate change.We also talk about:The latest crop condition report out from USDA National Agricultural Statistics ServiceThe Increase in food prices headed into the July 4th holiday

In the 7th New York Farm Bureau News Bytes:We hear from Commissioner Richard BallNYFB submits comments to the Security and Exchanges commissionAFBF submits amicus brief on California Prop 12Applications for Young Farmers Events is now available. The deadline to apply is July 17th

Update on Happy The ElephantSPECIAL REPORT: It's time to submit comments on the Climate Action Council Draft Scoping PlanUpdate on legislative bills that have passed this yearBREAKING NEWS: Update on the New York maple syrup production numbers for 2022NYFB named Best Newspaper in the American Farm Bureau Federation Communications Conference Award ceremony!

In today's episode we bring you a conversation with Dairy Farmer Nate Chittenden from his family farm outside of Albany, NY. Nate talks about growing up on the farm, the care they provide their land and animals, and the challenges and opportunities of farming in New York State. New York ranks fifth among states in dairy production and is a national leader in a wide variety of dairy products.

Happy June Dairy MonthNYFB Agricultural Youth Scholarships announcedUpdate from the State Capital in Albany, NYEnhancement and Standardization of Climate-Related Disclosures comment period extendedGet your NYFB: FARMER'S GUIDE TO TRUCK & FARM IMPLEMENT LAWS & REGULATIONS - https://members.nyfb.org/ItemDetail?iProductCode=IMPLEMENT&Category=BOOKS&WebsiteKey=cb61c6af-5eb5-4943-a273-df30e090666bLatest edition of Grassroots in your mail box this week

In this episode:We join our partners Grow NY Farms at a press event at the Capitol in Albany to highlight the impact of a lower overtime threshold.We talk with Assemblymember Kenny Burgos and Jeff King about about the Assemblymember's visit to King Brother's Dairy.Update from the state capitalDepartment of Agriculture and Markets prepare to launch a new online Farm Directory

In this episode:Update from the state capitalThe Spongy moth continues its apple tree eating rampageLearn more about the The Residential Agricultural Discount ProgramNational Ag policy update from Washington, DCThe next installment of the monthly webinar series: Land as Your Legacy Golden Owl award winner announcedThe 2022 Young Farmers & Ranchers Competitive Events announcedHappy the Elephant court case update