Madison County Leads The Way In New Farms – Ag Matters

Americans interest in locally produced items is bringing an increased interest in farming and prompting more people to become farmers.  Cornell University's Small Farms Program says Madison County led the state in new farms in the latest survey.

According to the 2012 New York State Agricultural Census the number of farms in many counties increased, with Madison County experiencing the greatest number of new farms with a 13% increase.

The interest in beginning farming has even met with support from the State of New York. Empire State Development started a grant for New and Beginning Farmers including a   grant aimed at "producers who have been farming 10 years or less."   And for those not finding success after three years, the state is offering a New Farmer Profit Team that will assist in analyzing your operation

The first round of grant money for new farmers ended April 1, but another round will start in the fall.  Get more information through the Cornell Small Farms Program, NY FarmNet or Beginning Farmers.org