______________________

Join NYALT’s
e-newsletter list!
Click here to sign on.

Local Farm Family One Step Closer to Achieving Goal

Recently, the Janas Family of Cayuga County achieved a milestone: the New York Agricultural Land Trust (NYALT), with the assistance of Cayuga County, submitted their farmland protection project for final approval to the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets.

The Janas’ had won a competitive state farmland protection grant to conserve their family farm in 2005, and now, they are almost at the finish line. Soon, the 248-acre farm will be conserved. 

“The development pressure around our farm is significant.  The recent installation of public utilities and the close proximity to Owasco Lake make this area very desirable for development", stated Mike Janas, the farm's owner.  "Also, a substantial portion of Vaness Brook, an environmentally sensitive stream, flows through the farm to Owasco Lake."  

"We believe the best use of this land is to remain agricultural. We want to make sure that future generations have the opportunity to farm this land.We are donating 25% of the development value back to the government to make sure this happens. It’s that important to us.” ~ Mike Janas, owner/farmer

Long-time farmers, economic flexibility in the agreement.
Mike and Margaret Janas have worked the farm for over 40 years. Due to health issues on both their parts, the land is currently being rented by a neighboring farmer.  The farm contains high-quality agricultural soils.  It was selected by Cayuga County for their grant application to the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets in 2005.  

For Mike and his family, it is important for the conservation of the farm to allow for flexible farming practices that can diversify, change, and respond to economic conditions. As with any farmland project with NYALT, the voluntary agreement will run with the land into the future. The land stays on the tax rolls.

“We know that agriculture will change, and the conservation easement is a flexible agreement that allows farmers to change, adapt, and respond to local and global economic conditions.”

What you can do to help other farmers and farms.
You can help other farmers conserve their land. Contact your local legislators (search by your zip code) and tell them that New York State must prioritize farmland protection in the next administration. Let them know how important this is.

New York State’s farmland protection has made commitments to 68 farm families who are waiting for the State to complete their projects. They are under contract, and many have spent thousands of dollars on surveys and  other costs to get their project ready for completion. Over $70 million has been awarded over the last six years—but not spent—and these farmers cannot wait much longer.

The funding comes from the Environmental Protection Fund—a dedicated fund for Open Space, by law. You
can help make sure that NY State’s Farmland Protection Program receives the $25 million it needs, each year, to honor the state’s commitments to these farm families.

Contact your local legislators. It really makes a difference. Also call the New York State office of the American Farmland Trust at (518) 581-0078 or visit their website if you want more details on the state’s program and the needs of farmers.

Board Member's Farm Wins Prestigious Award

Wake Robin Farm is in the news again...this time for winning silver and bronze in the World Jersey Cheese Wards held June 11-12 in theChannel Islands, United Kingdom. Read here for more. Congratulations Meg and Bruce!