East Hudson Valley News

The Dutchess County Agricultural Forum took place today at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, underscoring the county's thriving agricultural sector, which contributes over $45 million annually to the local economy. The event brought together members of the Dutchess County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board, including local farmers, agri-business representatives, agricultural and land conservancy organizations, as well as state, county, and local leaders and community members. Discussions centered on issues and policies affecting agriculture in Dutchess County.

County Executive Sue Serino announced that the role of the Dutchess County Ag Navigator will be expanded to a full-time position in the 2025 county budget to better support local farmers. "Dutchess County is home to an incredibly vibrant farming community," said Serino. "Farmers are resilient... they continue to think outside of the box to work through those challenges and find creative solutions."

The Ag Navigator role was first established in 2016 to assist farmers with navigating contemporary agricultural complexities by acting as a liaison among farmers, municipal officials, and economic development specialists. The navigator provides impartial information when local regulations or actions may impact agriculture or farmland.

Previously managed by Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County (CCEDC) with Jennifer Fimbel serving part-time as Ag Navigator, the position will now become a full-time role within the Department of Planning & Development. Fimbel retired earlier this year after more than 38 years at CCEDC but has returned part-time to help transition her successor.

Expanding this role aims to offer greater assistance with policy guidance, enforcement issues such as zoning, assessment questions, right-to-farm laws, and agricultural districts. Planned initiatives include public informational meetings for farmers and officials about agricultural laws and assessments; educational sessions for supervisors and mayors on available resources; training for local assessors; and forming an Agricultural Education subcommittee.

CCEDC Executive Director Mary Lou Carolyn stated that expanding the Agriculture Navigator role would benefit the local agricultural community by enhancing education on regulations and assessment rules. "CCEDC looks forward to continuing to provide educational and technical resources while working with the county on policy issues regarding agriculture," she said.

The forum also featured a presentation by New York State Farm Bureau Vice President Eric Ooms on opportunities and challenges facing New York farmers. Ooms highlighted that farmers are evolving entrepreneurs who utilize social media and explore different markets like those in lower Hudson Valley and New York City areas.

Following the forum, members of ThinkDIFFERENTLY 4-H showcased their animals at its annual Fair Flourishing Farmer’s Showcase.

###