Guide to Urban Farming in New York State
January 3, 2018

Are you interested in or currently farming in a city? Do you wonder how to access land, how to reclaim a contaminated site, how to maximize use of a small growing space, or how to most successfully target your urban market?
The Guide to URBAN Farming in NYS, produced by the Cornell Small Farms Program, answers these and many other common questions about farming in urban environments, and can help you launch, continue, or expand your urban farm business.
The 105-page resource guide contains factsheets on a myriad of topics, including tips for advocating for urban agriculture, engaging communities, dealing with contaminated soils, intensive growing techniques, urban composting, site security, urban livestock, direct marking options, accepting food stamps, grant and financial opportunities, and many more! Also included is an appendix listing services and resources available from several urban farming organizations throughout New York State
Whether you're looking to grow food on your roof top, keep chickens in your backyard, learn more about hydroponics or start an urban CSA, the Guide to URBAN Farming in NYS will provide or direct you to the information you need to know.
Upcoming Events
Intercropping with Mushrooms
October 14, 2025
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Poughkeepsie, NY
Join us for an afternoon of hands-on learning at Pershing Community Farm, led by Urban Agriculture Specialist Yolanda Gonzalez.2025 Agroforestry Field Day Series -- Agroforestry Implementation and Management
October 23, 2025
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Highland, NY
Interested in incorporating agroforestry practices into your farm? Join us for a series of workshops co-hosted by CCE Ulster, Orange, and Harvest NY with Mastwood Farms, Black Creek Farm and Nursery and Scenic Hudson. On October 23, we'll return to Erik Schellenberg's farm, Black Creek Farm and Nursery, for a Fall tour of their agroforestry plantings. Erik will talk about harvesting and managing plantings while we see some seasonal crops and installations of different ages and types. There will be time for questions and discussion as we wrap up the series. covered.