NY S01744

Establishes a youth development agriculture technology challenge competition for elementary, secondary, and higher education students coordinated by the Department of Agriculture and Markets in conjunction with the State Fair, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and partner organizations.

Challenge focuses on engaging students to develop solutions to agricultural problems including food production, energy efficiency, farming costs, and environmental impacts such as climate change and pollinator loss.

Department and partners shall identify resources, training, and coaching to assist students in underserved rural and urban communities and establish project deadlines, education level categories, and judging criteria.

Authorizes the department to use State Fair appropriated funds and accept gifts and donations deposited in a special fund under the Agriculture and Markets Law to support the challenge.

Prizes may be awarded to winning submissions subject to available funding.