New York is committing a record $67 million to protect working farmland as development pressure and climate risks continue to grow across the state.
The funding will be distributed through the Farmland Protection Implementation Grants program, which helps farmers and local partners permanently preserve agricultural land and keep it in production. State officials say this is the largest funding round in the program’s nearly 30-year history.
The money will support conservation easements on farms across all regions of New York, with more than $6 million allocated to each economic development region. The latest round includes additional funding from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, expanding the state’s ability to protect at-risk farmland.
“As we get ready to celebrate three decades of protecting New York’s farmland, we are more committed now than ever to preserving the State’s agricultural heritage,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “With a record-high $67 million available in this round, we are continuing to partner with farmers and local organizations to protect valuable farmland and keep farms in production.”
Since launching in 1996, the program has helped preserve more than 134,800 acres of farmland on 447 farms statewide. Officials say the effort plays a key role in food security, climate resilience, and source water protection while supporting the long-term viability of New York’s agricultural economy.
The new funding round prioritizes projects tied to climate resilience, water protection, and access to farmland for new and beginning farmers. Eligible projects span a wide range of agricultural operations, including field crops, livestock, agroforestry, and farmland access initiatives.
The state also increased the maximum award per project to $3 million and continues a one-time incentive payment worth 10 percent of an easement’s value for projects that meet climate or water protection goals.
Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said the investment reflects a renewed commitment to farming. “With a record level of funding now available, we are doubling down on our commitment to New York agriculture by preserving more farmland and securing farm operations for the future,” he said.
Applications for the grants are being accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Counties, municipalities, soil and water conservation districts, and land conservation organizations are eligible to apply through the Statewide Financial System.
State leaders and farm advocates say the funding will help ensure New York’s nearly seven million acres of farmland remain productive for future generations, while strengthening rural economies and protecting natural resources.
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