NY S02479

Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets must study and develop a long-term strategy for sustaining farming and food production in New York state, analyzing land use, economic trends, market trends, and natural resource conservation.

Commissioner must evaluate the efficiency of Article 25-AA Section 308 of the agriculture and markets law and determine whether it has protected farmland while preventing unacceptable practices under Section 306.

Commissioner must propose programs encouraging farms under 220 acres in size, non-traditional diversified sustainable practices, and farms with business aspects beyond commodity market sales.

Commissioner may consult with agricultural and economic development advisory bodies and other organizations deemed appropriate in developing the strategy.

Commissioner must submit a report of findings and recommendations to the governor and legislature within one year of the act's effective date.