Assemblyman Marc Molinaro (R,C,I-Red Hook) recently spent time with local dairy farmers in the Hudson Valley region. Joined by the president of Hudson Valley Fresh, Jerry Simonetti, and local farmers, the Assemblyman toured Marshall’s Dairy Farm in Verbank, Columbia County, followed by a roundtable discussion about the burdens facing this vital industry. This is Molinaro’s fifth farming roundtable since taking office in January 2007. As a member of the Dutchess-Putnam-Westchester Farm Bureau and New York State Farm Bureau “Circle of Friends,” Molinaro has made meeting with and responding to the concerns of the agricultural community a top priority.
“Farmers are the backbone of the Hudson Valley economy,” stated Molinaro, “Ensuring that farmers are able to continue to do business here in New York State must be a top priority for state lawmakers.”
Molinaro explains that agriculture is the state’s top industry – with about 6,400 dairy farms in operation statewide. New York ranks third in the nation when it comes to dairy production. Milk sales alone account for one-half of the total agricultural receipts in New York. In fact, milk sales this past year have brought in $1.4 billion to the state. New York also provides the nation with abundant supplies of other dairy products including ice cream, yogurt and butter.
“Our Assemblyman is a strong advocate for local farmers and our voice in the state Legislature,” stated Simonetti. “It is always a pleasure to work with Marc since he understands our concerns and is always fighting for solutions to ease the excessive regulations and tax burden that make doing business in New York State difficult. Farmers in the Hudson Valley couldn’t ask for a better friend or legislator.”
“I would like to thank Tim Marshall for opening up his farm to us this morning, and all of those who participated today,” said Molinaro. “We must remain focused on protecting farming and creatively tackling the challenges that face this fragile industry. Uncertain economic times demand that we do more to build stronger relationships between our local farmers, small businesses and the worldwide marketplace. Together we can make a significant difference.”
