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Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino has announced a new initiative to support local farmers and keep agriculture thriving in the region. At the 10th annual Agricultural Forum held at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds on Thursday (August 20), Serino introduced "Cultivating Dutchess," an online hub designed to centralize resources for farmers. This platform will provide information on agricultural districts, farmland protection, and county-backed grant programs.
Serino emphasized the importance of farming to the local economy, which contributes an estimated $45 million annually. "Farms fuel our economy, provide fresh food, preserve open space, and welcome visitors from near and far," she stated. "Most importantly, they reflect the hard work and resilience of our farmers."
The county has also appointed Amanda Bergin as the new Agricultural Navigator. Bergin will assist farmers in accessing support services and resources available through the new hub. The initiative aims to promote agricultural careers, encourage farm-friendly policies, and ensure farming remains a vital part of Dutchess County's future.
The forum, held in partnership with the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board, also featured presentations from SUNY Cobleskill leaders discussing broader trends in New York agriculture. The event concluded with the Fair Flourishing Farmer’s Showcase, highlighting young participants from the ThinkDIFFERENTLY 4-H program.
While the launch date for the "Cultivating Dutchess" hub has not been announced, the initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening the agricultural community in Dutchess County.