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Ulster County is updating its Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan for the first time since 1997 and is seeking public feedback. The county will host a public meeting on Thursday (December 5) at SUNY New Paltz from 6 to 8 p.m., where residents can attend in person or join via Zoom. The draft plan aims to address challenges in agriculture while enhancing economic viability and sustainability. Residents can review the draft and provide feedback until January 31, 2025.
The plan is a collaborative effort involving the Ulster County Planning Department, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and other local organizations. It focuses on strategies to protect farmland, support new farmers, and raise awareness of agriculture's role in the economy.
County Executive Jen Metzger emphasized the importance of agriculture, stating, "Protecting and stewarding our agricultural resources is crucial to Ulster County's future food security and economic well-being."
The 2024 plan incorporates modern challenges such as climate change, soil health, and water conservation, which were not addressed in the 1997 plan. It also highlights the importance of a diverse and inclusive agricultural economy. The public is encouraged to review the draft plan, available online, and submit comments to help shape the future of Ulster County's agricultural landscape.