Programs and Services - Agriculture
Our number one priority in working with the agricultural community is to conserve our natural resources and to keep our waters clean. We utilize a number of tools to accomplish this goal. Since 2002 we have obtained over $1.85 million in state funding and over $1.9 million in federal funding on behalf of north country farmers. These funds are used in Jefferson County to implement conservation practices that keep our farms environmentally sound. Agricultural Environmental Management AEM is a voluntary program that helps farmer make cost-effective decisions to improve efficiency and increase productivity while protecting and conserving our natural resources. The District helps ag producers develop comprehensive farm plans. A Tier 1 questionnaire is the first step. To get started, click Tier 1, complete the form, and send it to us at: PO Box 838, Watertown, NY 13601. Comprehensive Nutrient Management Planning We work with you to create a plan for your farm. Protect water quality
Minimize agricultural runoff Protect air quality Increase crop yields Increase farm profits Agricultural Non Point Source Grant Program The District works with landowners to prepare grant proposals. If awarded, NYS Ag and Markets funds the project on a cost-share basis. All projects are geared toward protecting Jefferson County's natural resources. Past projects include: *Silage leachate control *Roof runoff management *Access road *Manure storage *Cover crops *Barnyard runoff management Soil Group Worksheets If your town assessor recommends a soil group worksheet, contact one of our technicians. Once completed, the worksheet will be used in preparation of your agricultural assessment. Check with your local assessor to find out the deadline for the application (usually in the spring). Reduce taxes $25 per parcel One-time fee* *unless there is a change in your parcel Conservation Farm of the Year Farms are recognized by the District for their commitment to environmental stewardship. A dinner is held in their honor to highlight their accomplishments. The chosen farms have made a special effort to protect natural resources in and around their community. Previous award winners 2011– Sheland Farms Sheland Farms started with 50 milking cows in 1962. They now milk 700 cows and have more than 550 head of young stock. The farmland has been in the Shelmidine family for about 100 years! Three generations and six family members are involved on the farm. Sheland employs 12 non-related employees; many have been employed for several years. They credit their success to living out their mission statement: "To be an agricultural based business that is enjoyable, fulfilling, and economically rewarding, for all involved in it. It is to be a progressively, respected, contributing part of our community and a good steward of God's many resources." 2011 NYS Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) Award – Porterdale Farms Ag Commissioner, Darrel Aubertine, awarded Porterdale Farms with the 2011 AEM Award. The Porter family was honored at the Empire Farm Days in Seneca Falls. Porterdale was recognized by the District in 2009 as Jefferson County's Conservation Farm of the Year. |    Comprehensive Nutrient Management   2011 Conservation Farm of the Year  NYS AEM Award: Porterdale Farms (right) with District staff (left) and Ag Commissioner Darrel Aubertine (middle) |
Providing today, protecting tomorrow!
