The dairy foods industry in New York continues to experience tremendous expansion and growth in the areas of production of yogurt and related products, artisan cheese production, as well as production of dairy powders, which have considerable opportunities for export. The growth in dairy foods processing capacity represents an opportunity for expanded farm-level production. This growth will take place both in the form of increased cow numbers and increased production per cow where appropriate, with emphasis on economically and environmentally sustainable growth strategies to ensure long-term continued supply of milk to meet the processing demands.

The Farm Strategic Planning Specialist on the Harvest NY team provides producers assistance with farmstead development, facility layout, and environmental planning to optimize production on dairy, crop and livestock farms.

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Community Gardens Soil Testing Program Accepting Applications

Soil testing supports the growth and expansion of community gardens by protecting the health and safety of the food produced in these gardens. CCE Harvest NY, in partnership with the NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets (AGM) and the Cornell Soil Health Lab, is offering eligible, food-producing gardens in New York State the opportunity to send soil samples for testing without charge.

The soil test will analyze samples for heavy metals and nutrient levels. Test results help gardeners make appropriate plans to produce high quality fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Technical support and education for participating growers will be provided by the CCE Harvest New York team. Learn more about the 2025 Community Gardens Soil Testing Program.

New York Urban Farms Sustainable Pest Management Fact Sheet Series

Cornell Cooperative Extension has partnered with dozens of urban farms across New York State to demonstrate and evaluate sustainable pest management strategies. Together with farmers, we found success using control methods that prevent or reduce crop losses through exclusion strategies, crop timing, host resistance, the introduction of beneficial organisms, and more. Regardless of management strategy used, common requirements for success include a knowledge of the pest and disease complex, preventative deployment and commitment to the process. The New York Urban Farms Sustainable Pest Management Fact Sheet Series includes case studies highlighting pest management techniques that New York urban farms have found valuable.