By Steve Levy
A report published earlier this month by the New York State Comptroller indicated that the amount of farmland is diminishing throughout New York State.
Despite economic growth, between 2012 and 2022, the state lost close to 14% of its farms and over 9% of farmland. New York is losing farms and land at a faster rate than the U.S. and all neighboring states except Connecticut (farms) and Massachusetts (farmland). https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2024/11/dinapoli-agriculture-report-reveals-economic-growth-and-challenges-facing-ny-farms
Suffolk County, however, continues to be the exception, with farmland acreage actually increasing. This is good news for our region.
When I was Suffolk County executive from 2004 through 2011, we prioritized the preservation of as many farms as possible. In our two terms, my administration preserved over 65 farms. It was done to help ensure that the charm and rustic nature of our East End is maintained into perpetuity
This is important, not only from an aesthetic perspective, but from an economic angle as well. As was noted in the comptroller’s report, Suffolk County – while not having the most farm acreage – is still one of the biggest revenue producers in the agricultural sector throughout the state.
Our farms, which once produced potatoes by the bushel and ducks in every restaurant, are now among the most prime winemaking areas in the country.
Our farms also produce amazing strawberries, apples, pumpkins, sod and other nursery products, and so much more.
And who among us doesn’t revel in the idea of taking a leisurely drive out to the Orient and soaking in the same pastures that our forefathers saw when they settled this territory?
While I didn’t agree with the need to increase the sales tax once again this past November for more sewers and upgraded cesspools (noting that there was plenty of money available in county surpluses and in the present quarter-penny environmental program), I nevertheless believe in land preservation.
During my administration, we preserved an area equivalent to six-and-a-half Central Parks. Much of that low-hanging fruit to preserve is now gone, leading to the question of whether we should perhaps redirect some of that money for other environmental purposes as well.
But the concept of preservation, where available and appropriate, is a good one. Our future generations will look back on our decisions to preserve the rustic nature of our island the same way planners are now revered for having set aside Central Park centuries ago.
Steve Levy is President of Common Sense Strategies, a political consulting firm. He served as Suffolk County Executive, as a NYS Assemblyman, and host of “The Steve Levy Radio Show.” He is the author of “Solutions to America’s Problems” and “Bias in the Media.” www.SteveLevy.info, Twitter @SteveLevyNY, steve@commonsensestrategies.com