GENESEE COUNTY AGRICULTURAL AND FARMLAND PROTECTION PLAN

Transcription

1 GENESEE COUNTY AGRICULTURAL AND FARMLAND PROTECTION PLAN May 2017 Prepared for: Genesee County Planning Department Funding and support from: NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets

2 Acknowledgements The Genesee Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan was funded by a Planning Grant from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and by Genesee County. Thank you to the following individuals and groups for input and assistance in the planning process: Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan Steering Committee: Felipe Oltramari, Genesee County Planning Derik Kane, Genesee County Planning Robert Kehlenbeck, Town of Alabama, Highway Superintendent Ron Gilbert, Town of Alabama, Planning Board Chair Barry Flansburg, Town of Oakfield, Assessor Melissa Haacke, Town of Oakfield, Town Clerk Rochelle Stein, Genesee County, Soil and Water Conservation Board Jan Beglinger, Cornell Cooperative Extension Kevin Andrews, Genesee County, Director, Real Property Services, Deputy Treasurer Genesee County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board: Donn Branton, Chairperson, Farmer Janice Beglinger, Agriculture Outreach Educator Cornell Cooperative Extension Steven Boldt, Farmer Kevin Andrews, Director Real Property Tax Services Mike Davis, County Legislator Charlie Miller, Agri Business LuAnne McKenzie, Farmer Shelley Stein, Soil & Water Conservation District Chairperson Janette Veazey Post, Farmer Felipe Oltramari, Director of Planning Genesee County Soil & Water Conservation District Office Shelley Stein, District Board Chairperson Molly Cassatt, District Manager Jared Elliott, Senior Field Manager Genesee County Planning Department: Felipe Oltramari, Director Derik Kane, Senior Planner Erin Pence, Geographic Information System (GIS) Analyst And all the farmers, citizens, business owners and others who provided input, comments and ideas to the development of this plan.

3 GENESEE COUNTY AGRICULTURE & FARMLAND PROTECTION PLAN Acknowledgements Executive Summary Chapter 1: Introduction... 1 Overview of Prior Planning Efforts... 2 Public Outreach... 3 Chapter 2: County Profile... 5 Land Cover... 6 Soils... 8 Agricultural Districts Smart Growth Areas Farm Data Town Input Chapter 3: The Agricultural Economy in Genesee County Agricultural Markets Opportunities for Expanded Production of Current Markets Barriers to New Markets Chapter 4: SWOT Analysis Chapter 5: Vision, Goals and Strategies Genesee County Farmland Protection Plan Goals and Strategies Potential Projects: Priority Projects Potential Projects: Additional Projects Chapter 6: Implementation Appendices: A: Mapping B: Outreach C: Overview of Prior Planning Efforts D: Town Comprehensive Plans E: Municipal Surveys F: Conserving Farmland LESA G: Funding Sources H: Model Agricultural Zoning District

4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Genesee County recognizes the importance of agriculture to its economy, its environment, its residents and local quality of life. Agriculture is an important part of the social fabric of the County s communities. This County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan is intended to reinforce and enhance agriculture in Genesee County, and strongly support efforts to maintain its vitality. Genesee County completed an Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan in This Update builds upon the 2001 Plan and provides new strategies to address current conditions. It includes an assessment of the County s agricultural economy, which identifies the state of agriculture, existing and emerging markets, and opportunities for the County. Chapter 1 provides an overview of past planning efforts in the County, and describes public outreach conducted as part of this study. Chapter 2 includes a summary of existing agriculture conditions in the County (soils, farms, demographic trends, and other relevant data). Chapter 3 provides an overview of the economics of farming in Genesee County, including products, markets, and issues. A discussion of the County s Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) is in Chapter 4. Chapter 5 begins with a recap of the 2001 recommendations, and then presents a series of strategies and projects for the County, organized around four goals for agriculture in Genesee County. Finally, Chapter 6 sets forth an implementation matrix to help policy makers and others accomplish projects in support of agriculture. This Executive Summary provides highlights of these sections. Public outreach for this plan included discussions with farmers, consumers, producers, governmental leaders, municipalities, agencies involved in agricultural issues, such as the Farm Bureau, and the general public. The project team also interviewed representatives of Page i

5 Land Trusts and similar agencies involved in protecting important lands. Public participation included meeting the public at local events such as farmers markets and the Genesee County Celebrate Agriculture Dinner, Farm Bureau meetings, public comment forms, and postings on the Genesee County website. The Agriculture Protection Steering Committee was an important partner in developing the Plan. Representation included elected officials, County employees, the Cooperative Extension, the Soil and Water Conservation Board, farmers, and Town representatives. The Steering Committee played an active role in shaping the policies and recommendations in this Plan. In addition, in depth meetings were held with representatives from the farming community, targeting a range of farm sizes from small to large, a variety of crops, and locations across the County. They provided valuable insight into issues facing farmers in Genesee County, such as traffic, economic development, markets, public water, governmental regulations, education and training, workforce, taxes and research. A full summary of the meeting is included in the Appendix A. Outreach to municipalities was through a survey sent to each Town in the County inquiring about their approach to agricultural uses, particularly in regard to planning and zoning issues, and development pressures in their municipality. COUNTY PROFILE Genesee County is a rural county, where development pressures are low. The topography and climate is very conducive to agriculture. There is excellent interstate access, with three exits to the I 90 (Thruway) in the County. Population in the County tends to be concentrated near the Thruway exits. The majority of the County is rural and agricultural: only about 8% of the County s land is classified as developed, and developed areas are largely concentrated in the County s city, villages and hamlet areas. Land Cover represents the type of vegetation ( cover) on a specific place. The most the most prominent type of land cover in Genesee County is agricultural: approximately 57% of the County is cultivated crop land and/or pastures. Every town in the County has significant areas in cultivation. Genesee County has world class soils, with 88% of the acreage in the County classified as productive farmlands. Land Cover, Genesee County Crops 57% Wetland 18% Develope d Land 8% Forest 16% Other 1% Page ii

6 The majority of the County s lands fall within an Agricultural District and are protected under State law. Many parcels not in an Agricultural District are conservation lands or parks. Lands outside the Agricultural Districts include the City and villages, and lands that are not viable agricultural lands. Genesee County has been very proactive in protecting agricultural lands and rural character. The County s Smart Growth Plan identifies designated Development Areas, where development is encouraged. New development outside these areas is discouraged and access to the County funded water system is not permitted. The Development Areas are the more densely developed areas within the County (the city, villages and hamlet areas), along with areas targeted for economic development. Genesee County outperforms state averages on a number of key indicators. The acreage in farms grew by 6% between 2002 and 2012, and farm sales have also been increasing, with a 90% gain between 2002 and Average net farm income was just under $100,000 in 2012, compared to $34,240 for the State average. Sales are not uniform: 34% of farms in Genesee County reported sales of less the $2,500 per year, while 26% reported sales in excess of $100,000. Most farmers in Genesee County own at least a portion of their farms. Only about 3% of farm operators are tenants on leased lands. Most are long term farmers, and have worked their present farm for 10 years or more. Only 5% were new farmers (less than 5 years). The majority of farmers in the County are aging: nearly half (49%) were 60 or older. The average age in 2012 (most recent year available) was 58.5 years. Farms by Value of Sales, Genesee County, 2012 >$100,000 26% $10,000 99,999 40% <$2,500 34% Years on Present Farm 10+ years 80% <2 years 1% 3 4 years 4% 5 9 years 15% Genesee County s municipalities are supportive of agriculture. In a review of the Town Comprehensive Plans, nearly all of them recognize the importance of agriculture, and include goals, strategies or recommendations in support of farmland protection. A survey of Towns reinforced this support. While improvements can be made, local zoning attempts to be supportive of agricultural uses. Three communities have local Right to Farm laws, and two have active agricultural committees 1 The increase is 50% after adjusting for inflation Page iii

7 Genesee County communities recognize and support the value of farming to the local economy, for jobs, businesses, and tax base. They also appreciate the role of farming in conserving important soils, and the social benefits of being a farming community. There is concern about conflicts arising between farming and neighbors. Availability of water was cited as a major factor, necessary in support of agricultural practices. GOALS, VISION AND STRATEGIES Goals for agriculture in Genesee County are as follows: 1. Retain Prime Farmlands for Agricultural Use 2. Continuously Reinforce the Value of Farming as an Economic Activity 3. Provide the 21 st Infrastructure Needed for a Successful Agricultural Economy 4. Educate and Engage the Consumer. The Farmland Protection Plan reaffirms and updates the recommendations from the 2001 plan, and develops new strategies. The following table summarizes implementation of these strategies. More information on the substance of the strategies is in Chapter 5. IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX GOAL 1: RETAIN PRIME FARMLANDS FOR AGRICULTURAL USE Priority Funding Needs Time Frame Partners Model Zoning Codes: M $ S GenCo.; Town Planning Boards Model Subdivision Codes M $ S GenCo.; Town Planning Boards Creative PDR s L $$$ L GenCo; NYS Ag & Markets; Land Conservancies; GenCo Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board; Farm Bureau; individual property owners. Farmland Protection Implementation Grants Consider agriculture in County policies M $$ M GenCo Planning Department; New York State Department of Ag & Markets; Farm Bureau; individual property owners. H NA I/O All County decision makers Page iv

8 GOAL 2: CONTINUOUSLY REINFORCE THE VALUE OF FARMING AS AN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY Priority Funding Needs Time Frame Partners Identify new markets for traditional products: H Varies I/O Genesee Co. Planning, GCEDC, FLREDC, Farm Bureau, producers; cooperatives (e.g. Dairy Farmers of America). Identify niche markets H Varies I/O Genesee Co., GCEDC, FLREDC, Farm Bureau, producers, cooperatives, trade groups. Target Incentives H $$$ I/O Genesee Co., GCEDC, FLREDC, ESD, NYS Ag & Markets, Rural Development, individual municipalities, private funders, GCC, CCE, producers, trade groups, private businesses Provide Education in Needed Skills H $$ I/O GCCC, CCE/4 H, BOCES; SUNY Brockport; Cornell University, area school districts, Leadership Genesee, New York State. Research M $ O GCC, CCE, Cornell University, BOCES; SUNY Brockport, area school districts; NYS. GOAL 3: PROVIDE THE INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDED FOR A SUCCESSFUL AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY Water Agricultural water access Guidance for water district establishment H $$ $$$ I/O GenCo, New York State (EFC, DEC, ESD, Ag&Markets), Rural Development, Monroe, Erie & Niagara Counties (as potential sources of water supply), local municipalities. Drainage/ Stormwater Management H $ I/O GenCo; local municipalities; Soil and Water Conservation Board; Ag&Markets. Roads and Traffic M $ I/O GenCo, local municipalities, DPWs, NYS DOT, utility companies. Support Farm Friendly Institutions and Policies M $ I/O GenCo Page v

9 GOAL 4: EDUCATE AND ENGAGE THE CONSUMER Priority Funding Needs Time Frame Partners Update and expand Cost of H $ $$ S GenCo, local municipalities Community Services Study (COCS) Educational Outreach brochures and other materials about M $ I/O GenCo, local municipalities, Realtors, business community. agricultural issues Public Relations Activities M $ $$ I/O GenCo, Farm Bureau, volunteers. Programming in Schools M $ I/O GenCo, school districts, local municipalities. Advocacy M $ I/O GenCo Key: Priorities: H= High; M=Moderate; L=Low Funding: $=Modest; $$=Moderate; $$$=Significant Time Frame: I= Imminent; O= On going; S=Short term; M=Medium term; L=Long term PRIORITY PROJECTS The Plan identified four priority projects for the County to pursue in support of agriculture. Agricultural Park Economic Development. Continued build out of the Genesee Valley Agri business Park in Batavia, and attracting businesses to the Food and Technology Park in the Town of LeRoy, with an emphasis on the types of businesses that would support the agricultural sector. 21 st Century Infrastructure. Primary infrastructure needs are for accessible roadways, quality water, and high speed internet access. Access to high quality electrical service and natural gas is also needed. Downtown Batavia Healthy Living Hub. A cooperative effort between the YMCA and Rochester Regional Health to create a healthy living campus and community gathering place where agriculture could be celebrated and promoted as part of a healthy lifestyle. Farm Workforce Assistance Study. To investigate recruiting a reliable and sustainable workforce, reforming State farmworker regulations, increasing awareness of careers in the agricultural industry, and improving living conditions for all workers. Page vi

10 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Genesee County has a rich agricultural heritage. Farming has been a mainstay of the local economy since its earliest days. Settlers were attracted to the area by its fertile soils, and farming has remained a major element of the County s economic base. Genesee County recognizes the importance of agriculture to its economy, its environment, its residents and local quality of life. Agriculture is part of the social fabric of the County s communities. This importance has been recognized in local, regional and State planning efforts, confirmed in public outreach and supported by local actions. This County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan is intended to build on prior efforts, and to reinforce and enhance this support for agriculture in Genesee County. Genesee County s Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 1998, listed the preparation of an Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan as a priority recommendation. The County accepted funds to complete the original plan in 2000, and the Plan was completed in The 2001 Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan provided the County and its Towns with tools to help protect farmland. It analyzed the state of agriculture in the county and provided an extensive list of strategies and recommendations to accomplish that goal. In the past years, however, there have been changes in the County that could have significant implications for the agricultural economy and farmland protection. Most notably, the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) has had success with implementing one of their priority projects, the proposed Western New York Science and Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP). This 1,250 acre site, intended to accommodate to a mix of high technology businesses, is projected to employ as many as 9,000 employees at full Page 1

11 build out. The Generic Environmental Impact Statement for the STAMP project recommended the development of an updated Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan as a means of dealing proactively with potential impacts. Local Agriculture and Farmland Protection plans are being developed jointly with this County Plan to address the immediate impacts of STAMP on local agriculture in the Towns of Alabama and Oakfield. In 2015, the County authorized an update to the 2002 Plan, building upon the earlier plan. The 2001 Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan was comprehensive in approach, and it contains many policies, programs and other recommendations that remain relevant. The goal of the 2016 Farmland Protection Plan update is to build upon those recommendations, and create a streamlined document that focuses on a smaller number of high impact, implementable action steps the County can undertake. This document is broken down into several major components. First is an assessment of the County s agricultural economy, which identifies the state of agriculture, existing and emerging markets, and opportunities for the County. It includes a summary of existing agriculture conditions in the County, such as soils, a profile of farms, and demographic trends. It reinforces and refines goals and recommendations for the County to undertake in support of agriculture to help it thrive, with a focus on strengthening the agricultural economy and protecting prime farmlands. Finally, it establishes an implementation plan for County leaders, setting forth a game plan for accomplishing priority recommendations over the next few years. OVERVIEW OF PRIOR PLANNING EFFORTS Genesee County has benefited from prior land use planning. For the most part, these prior planning efforts have promoted policies and goals that support agriculture and the desire to maintain farming as an important component of the County s economy and quality of life. This Plan is intended to coordinate with and complement other planning efforts affecting the County, and reinforce the County s commitment to farmland issues. As a parallel trend, New York State has moved much more toward a regional approach toward planning, with Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) plans, Regional Sustainability Plans (RSP), along with the regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), which was prepared in compliance with federal Economic Development Agency (EDA) funding. At a more local level, the County has continued to refine its Smart Growth Plan, and undertaken a closer look at sustainability issues with the Green Genesee Smart Genesee Plan. Appendix C provides a summary of County and regional planning documents that were reviewed as part of this effort. Page 2

12 PUBLIC OUTREACH Obtaining input from the agricultural community was an important part of the process of developing this plan. Outreach included farmers, consumers, producers, governmental leaders, municipalities, agencies involved in agricultural issues, such as the Farm Bureau, and the general public. The project team also interviewed representatives of Land Trusts and similar agencies involved in protecting important lands. Input was sought on issues important to local stakeholders. We endeavored to identify public concerns, and get insight from a variety of interests on potential opportunities. The public participation program for the development of the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan included stakeholder outreach, public comment forms, and postings on the Genesee County website. Agricultural Protection Steering Committee The Agricultural Protection Steering Committee was an important partner in developing the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan. They provided guidance and oversight for the development of Plan, and represented a wide range of agriculturally related interests. Representation included elected officials, County employees, an assessor, planners, Planning Board representatives, the Cooperative Extension, the Soil and Water Conservation Board, the agricultural community, and Town representatives. The Steering Committee met periodically to review the progress of plan development, provide insight into the planning process, and ensure that the concerns of stakeholders and the agricultural community were taken into consideration. Farmers Round Tables Two meetings were held with representatives from the farming community on August 29 th one in the afternoon and one in the evening. A number of farmers were invited, and participants represented a range of farm sizes from small to large; a variety of crops, including dairy, vegetable, other crops; and locations across the County, including Oakfield and Alabama. The meetings each began with a brief overview of conditions in Genesee County, but the majority of the time was spent in an open discussion of issues, with the intent of obtaining participants insights and comments. Major issues that were raised included traffic, economic development, markets, public water, governmental regulations, education and training, workforce, taxes and research. A full summary of the meeting is included in the Appendix B. Municipal Surveys Surveys were sent to each Town in the County to obtain information about their approach to agricultural uses, particularly in regard to planning and zoning issues, and development pressures in their municipality. Page 3

13 Agency Outreach Members of the planning team reached out to representatives from local and regional agencies to assess agricultural economic development and farmland preservation efforts in Genesee County and the Towns of Oakfield and Alabama and to enable these representatives the opportunity to offer input into the planning process. These stakeholder agencies included the Genesee County Farm Bureau, the Genesee County Agricultural Protection Board, Western New York Land Conservancy, the Genesee Land Trust, Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Genesee County Planning Department. Interviews with representatives from local processing and distribution businesses were also held. Interviews The planning team also talked directly to producers and consumers in a variety of settings, including the annual Celebrate Agriculture Dinner, farmers markets, the Chamber of Commerce and by telephone. Page 4

14 CHAPTER 2 COUNTY PROFILE Genesee County is a rural county located in Western New York, approximately mid way between Buffalo and Rochester. Its population has remained stable at approximately 60,000 residents for several decades. The City of Batavia, the County seat, is situated at the approximate center of the County. The County s topography is generally level, with areas of gently rolling hills. The Onondaga limestone escarpment runs through the County, providing some areas of steeper slopes. Generally, however, the landscape is very conducive to agriculture. Genesee County is bordered by Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Livingston and Wyoming Counties. The New York State Thruway, which divides the County through the center, has three exits within the County, providing excellent interstate access. Population in the County tends to be concentrated near the Thruway exits: over half of the County s population (56.8%) live within the City and Town of Batavia, the Town of Pembroke and the Town and Village of LeRoy. Population Change by Municipality, Finger Lakes Region Source: Genesee Finger Lake Regional Planning Council Page 5

15 In addition to the City of Batavia, Genesee County has 13 towns, 7 villages and an Indian Reservation. Population growth has been stable and development pressures are currently low. Development in Genesee County is largely concentrated in and around the City of Batavia, the villages, and to a lesser degree, a number of small hamlet areas. Based on land cover data from the US Geological Survey, approximately 8% of the County s land is classified as developed, including buildings, parking lots, and developed open space, such as lawns, parks and golf courses. Other areas of the County tend to be primarily rural and agricultural. Genesee County Municipalities Population % Total City of Batavia 15,465 26% Towns (including Villages) Alabama Town 1,869 3% Alexander* 2,534 4% Batavia Town 6,809 11% Bergen* 3,120 5% Bethany 1,765 3% Byron 2,369 4% Darien 3,158 5% Elba* 2,370 4% LeRoy* 7,641 13% Oakfield* 3,250 5% Pavilion 2,495 4% Pembroke* (Corfu) 4,292 7% Stafford 2,459 4% Tonawanda Reservation 483 1% Genesee County 60, % Source: US Census, 2010 * NOTE: Town includes a Village. The Town of Alexander includes Village of Alexander and small portion of the Village of Attica, which is primarily located in Wyoming County. LAND COVER Map 1 illustrates Land Cover, which is the type of vegetation or cover on a specific place. In Genesee County, the most prominent type of land cover is agricultural. The National Land Cover Database depicts areas in agricultural use as brown or yellow, with cultivated crops shown as brown and pastures and hay in yellow. Approximately 57% of the acreage in the County is cultivated crop land and/or pastures. Every town in the County has significant areas of cultivation in one of these two categories. Page 6

16 Map 1: Land Cover 1 Forested lands (deciduous, evergreen, or mixed forest) are shown in shades of green. Forested lands are concentrated in the Town of Darien and the Tonawanda Seneca Indian Reservation, but there are pockets of woodlands throughout the County. Approximately 16% of the County s land is classified as forests. 2 There are also prominent areas of wetlands and emergent herbaceous wetlands throughout the County, with large wetlands in the Towns of Oakfield and Alabama in the northwest (Oak Orchard State Wildlife Management Area and Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge) and northeast (Byron Bergen Swamp) portions of the County. Areas of wetlands also follow many of the creek corridors in the County. The County has a wealth of environmental features, including federal and State wetlands, aquifers and creeks and waterways. The map on the following page depicts these important environmental resources. 1 Full page versions of the maps are at the end of the report 2 Forested lands include 1.3% of acres classified as Shrub/Scrub lands. Page 7

17 Map 2: Environmental Features SOILS Soils in Genesee County are excellent, as shown on Map 3: Farmland Soils. The most productive soils, classified as Prime Farmland comprise 38% of the acreage in the County. Prime farmlands, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), are lands with the combination of quality soils, sufficient water supply and a good growing season that results in the ability to produce high crop yields. Another 24% of soils in Genesee County are Prime when drained. These lands have high quality soils, but tend to be saturated with water, and require drainage measures for maximum yields. Approximately one quarter of the County s acreage is classified as Soils of Statewide Importance. This category includes lands not classified as Prime under the federal classification system, but that have been identified as highly productive by the State. In addition, approximately 4% of Genesee County s land is muck land, which is conducive to growing root crops, such as onions. Overall, Genesee County has world class soils, with 88% of the acreage in the County classified as productive farmlands in one of these four categories. Page 8 Land Cover, Genesee County Crops 57% Wetland 18% Forest 16% Develope d Land 8% Other 1%

18 Map 3: Farmland Soils Genesee County Soils Not Prime 12% Muck 4% Prime Farmland 38% Statewide Importance 25% Prime when drained 21% Page 9

19 AGRICULTURAL DISTRICTS Genesee County has four Agricultural Districts, and the majority of the County s lands fall within an Agricultural District. (Map 4: Agricultural Districts and Protected Lands) Lands outside Agricultural Districts in the County tend to be concentrated along the New York State Thruway, particularly in Pembroke, Batavia and LeRoy, where there are Thruway exits. Overall, however, 64% of the county s acres are protected by an Agricultural District. Many of the parcels that are not in an Agricultural District are protected through other means. These include the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge in the Towns of Alabama and Oakfield; the Bergen Byron Swamps; Darien State Park; the County Park and Forest in Bethany, and various local parks. Approximately 5% of lands in the County fall into this category. Lands outside the Agricultural Districts include areas in and surrounding the City of Batavia; the County s Villages and hamlets, and lands, such as forested lands, wetlands or mines, that are not viable agricultural lands. Generally, Genesee County has high participation in the Agricultural District program. Only about 31% of the County s lands are not protected by either an Agricultural district or some other form of protection. Map 4: Agricultural Districts and Protected Lands Page 10

20 The Agricultural District Program, established by Article 25 AA of New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, provides benefits and protections for agricultural land with the intent of encouraging the maintenance of lands in agricultural use. Land owners voluntarily agree to place their lands into an Agricultural District. In return, they are protected from overly restrictive local regulations and from nuisance suits targeting normal agricultural practices. Government funded acquisition and construction projects must file a notice of intent and follow a more stringent review process if they affect lands within an Agricultural District. The State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) process also places greater weight on farmland, requiring a more careful assessment of potential impacts from proposed developments. Agricultural lands also receive tax benefits. Eligible farmlands, whether in or outside an Agricultural District, are eligible to be assessed based on the value of the land on its agricultural value, not its fair market value as developable land. Agricultural District Law also protects farm parcels from excessive taxes assessed by special improvement districts or benefit areas by limiting what lands get included in the assessed value. Instead of taking the value of the entire property, the assessment is based on the half acre surrounding the farm dwelling, and any farm structures directly benefiting from the services provided by that special district or improvement area. State agencies are also directed to prioritize the maintenance of farming on lands within Agricultural Districts in their policies and procedures. Genesee County manages the Agricultural District program, including the inclusion and removal of specific parcels from the Districts, as well as the required eight year review/renewal process. The County is currently undertaking the review of properties in the County s Agriculture Districts, and is seeing continued participation at a high level. Page 11 Protected Acres, Genesee County Protected Lands 5% Not Protected 31% Land in Ag Districts 64%

21 SMART GROWTH AREAS Genesee County has been very proactive in terms of protecting agricultural lands and rural character. The County adopted a Smart Growth Plan in 2001, with the goal of protecting valuable farmland, and encouraging economic development and revitalization of the County s villages and hamlets. The Plan, which is reviewed and updated on a regular basis, identifies designated Smart Growth Development Areas, illustrated in Map 5. Development is encouraged within the priority development areas, and new and existing structures within these areas will be allowed access to the County funded water system. New development outside the priority area boundaries is discouraged, and access to the County funded water system is generally not allowed. The Smart Growth Development areas correspond with the more densely developed areas within the County (the city, villages and hamlet areas), along with areas targeted for economic development (e.g. STAMP, Town of Batavia business parks). The factors used to determine the boundaries of the Smart Growth areas include the following: Land in County Agricultural Districts New York State regulated wetlands and a 100 foot buffer surrounding wetlands Flood hazard areas Local zoning Local Comprehensive Plans Sewer and Water service areas Local municipalities can request revisions to the Smart Growth area boundaries during each review period. Potential impacts on agriculture, farm lands or lands within Agricultural Districts is explicitly a factor in determining whether a request to the Smart Growth boundary, or access to water, should be approved. Since 2010, a total of seven requests have been made to extend water to new structures outside the designated growth areas. These requests were evaluated as to what impacts on farmland and agriculture would be expected; based on this review, these extensions were approved. In total, since the Smart Growth Plan was adopted, there have been a total of 38 requests subject to review. The Smart Growth Plan is in the process of being updated. There are some changes to the Smart Growth Areas, including the removal of lands in the Towns of Batavia, Darien and Stafford; and changes in the Town of Alabama, largely to accommodate the proposed STAMP development. The updated plan also proposes the creation of Reserved Development Areas in two locations in the Town of Batavia. These areas are expansions of the existing Smart Growth Areas, located near the Thruway and Genesee Community College. All existing Smart Page 12

22 Growth Areas would be labeled Priority Development Areas. Proposed new development in the Reserved Development Areas would potential be allowed, but would need to undergo a stricter level of review. Map 5: Smart Growth Areas FARM DATA Genesee County has been successful at keeping land in agricultural use. According to data from the Census of Agriculture, the amount of acreage in farms grew by nearly 10,000 acres between 2002 and 2012, representing approximately 6% increase. Over this same time period, the number of farms in the County decreased, from 580 farms to 549 farms. This reflects the fact that the average size of a farm in Genesee County has been increasing. In 2002, the average farm in Genesee County consisted of 306 acres of land; by 2012, the size of the average farm had grown to 341 acres. The average size of a farm in Genesee County is influenced by a number of very large farms (1,000 acres or more in size). The median size of a farm in the County is much lower, at 83 acres in According to the Census of Agriculture, nearly two thirds of farms in the County (63%) fall between 10 and 179 acres in size. This proportion has remained fairly consistent over the past decade. Page 13

23 Average Size of Farm (acres) Genesee County: Land in Farms (acres) Genesee County: , , , Farmland Trends, Genesee County Change: Number Percent Land in Farms (acres) 177, , ,317 +9, % Number of farms % Average Size of farms % Source: Census of Agriculture Farm sales have been increasing, even when controlled for inflation. In 2002, farms in Genesee County showed total sales of $124 million. This figure grew to nearly $237 million in 2012, an increase of $112 million, or 90%. When adjusted for inflation to 2016 dollars, farm sales still grew by nearly 50% between 2002 and $300,000,000 $250,000,000 $200,000,000 $150,000,000 $100,000,000 $50,000,000 $ Total Farm Sales $124,938,000 $177,810,000 $236,952,000 (adjusted for inflation $2016) Farm Sales Trends $167,397,000 $206,707,000 $248,763,000 Page 14

24 Average net farm income realized by farmers in Genesee County was just under $100,000 in Farmers in Genesee County are outperforming the State average: average net farm income across New York State was just $34,240 in Trends: Farm Sales, Genesee County Change: Genesee County Number Percent Average Net Farm Income $60,145 $92,686 $99,226 $39, % Adjusted for inflation (2016 $) $80,586 $107,749 $104,172 $23, % New York State Average Net Farm Income $14,460 $32,533 $34,240 $19, % Adjusted for inflation (2016 $) $19,405 $37,881 $36,005 $16, % Source: Census of Agriculture As in the case of average size of farms, the average net income is likely skewed by high performing farms. In 2012, 44% of farms in Genesee County reported net gains, and 56% reported net losses. The average net loss in 2012 was $28,197, while the average net gain was $263,283. The farming profile is split: 34% of farms in Genesee County reported sales of less the $2,500 per year, while 26% reported sales in excess of $100,000. Farms by Value of Sales, Genesee County, 2012 >$100,000 26% $2,500 99,999 40% <$2,500 34% While 56% of farmers in Genesee County consider farming to be their primary occupation, a majority of farm operators have supplemental off farm employment. In Genesee County, 59% of farm operators report having a job off the farm for supplemental income, compared to 56% across the State, and 40% worked 200 or more days off the farm, compared to a State rate of 35%. The majority (61%) of farmers are full owners of their operation, while another 36% own at least some of their lands. Only about 3% of farm operators in Genesee County are tenants on leased lands. For those farmers who both own and lease their lands, the majority of their Page 15

25 acreage (61%) is in their ownership. In terms of acreage, the largest proportion of farm acres (76%) are under the control of farmers who operate on a mix of owned and leased lands. Tenure Full Owner (all acreage is owned by operator) Tenant (all acreage is leased) Part Owners (operator farms a mix of owned and leased lands) Source: Census of Agriculture Eighty percent of Genesee County farmers had been on their present farm for 10 or more years, while only 5% had been on the farm for fewer than 5 years. The average length of tenure at the current farm was 26.3 years. The farming community in Genesee County is aging. According to the most recent Census of Agriculture (2012), less than 1% of farmers in the County were 25 years or younger, while 20% were 70 or older. Nearly half (49%) were 60 or older. Farms Acres % 34,184 18% 16 3% 11,137 6% % 141,996 76% Years on Present Farm 10+ years 80% 5 9 years 15% <2 years 1% 3 4 years 4% Age Group years or under 3 1% years 24 4% years 47 9% years % years 86 16% years 76 14% years 81 15% 70 years and older % Average Age: 58.5 Source: Census of Agriculture Page 16

26 TOWN INPUT Genesee County s municipalities are supportive of agriculture. In a review of the Town Comprehensive Plans, nearly all of them recognize the importance of agriculture, and include goals, strategies or recommendations in support of farmland protection. A discussion summarizing provisions in local Comprehensive Plans regarding agriculture is included in Appendix D. In addition, as part of the County s Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan, a survey was sent to each of the Towns in the County to get input on agriculture in their community. Municipalities were requested to convene a representative group from the Town Board, the Planning Board, the agricultural community and other locally relevant groups in order to develop their responses. The response rate was excellent, with responses from 12 of the 13 Towns in the County. Nearly every Town in Genesee County has what they consider an agricultural zoning district, although most are designated as joint agriculture and residential districts. 3 For the mixed agricultural and residential zoning districts, many of the Towns have language in their zoning code that gives preference to agricultural uses. Typical language is: The Agricultural Residential (A R) District is designed to accommodate primarily agricultural uses in order to preserve the town s agricultural base and maintain its rural nature, but residential uses are permitted therein. It is recognized, however, that agricultural and residential uses have a number of inherent conflicts between them. Individuals who plan to develop residential uses within the A R District should be aware of such inherent conflicts and that residences are a secondary use. Despite the supportive language in the intent section of the district description, the uses portion of the A R districts typically allow a wide range of uses. In the Town of Alabama, for example, other uses allowed by right within the A R district include one and two family dwellings; mobile homes; churches; schools; ponds; home occupations; roadside stands; contractors yards; and non commercial wind energy systems. In addition, 31 different uses could be permitted with a special use permit, including multi family housing. Many of the allowed uses could be compatible with agricultural activities (e.g. wind energy; kennel; commercial greenhouse; stables). However, others could create the opportunity for conflicts. 3 The Town of Bergen placed the RA 40 (Residential Agriculture) district under Other special Agricultural Laws but this district is designed to preserve farm land and the rural nature of the Town. Page 17

27 Oakfield, Alabama, Byron and Bergen have Land Conservation districts that are more restrictive in regard to development than the Agricultural zoning districts. These districts apply to the unique ecological resources of the wildlife refuges in these Towns. While important to rural character, they have less impact on agricultural uses. Four towns had a hamlet or mixed use zone to try to encourage redevelopment in the hamlet areas, which helps preserve agricultural lands. Many towns allowed Planned Unit Developments (PUD) or Planned Residential Developments (PRD). This type of zoning allows a more flexible approach to new development. The site plan, which must be approved through standard procedures, governs how the development is laid out, rather than strict adherence to standard zoning requirements regarding setbacks and similar siting considerations. Appropriate use of PUD or PRD zoning can result in site design that is more sensitive to its context, such as natural resources or neighboring uses. Despite its availability as a tool, it has been rarely used in Genesee County. Zoning Analysis Town: Pure Ag Ag Hamlet / Land PUD/PRD Other * Res Mixed Use Conservation Alabama x x x Alexander x x Batavia x x x x Bergen x x x Bethany x x Byron x x x x Darien x Elba x x LeRoy x x Oakfield x x Pavilion x x Pembroke x x x x x Stafford x x x Total * Includes Earth Products and Wellhead Protection Overlay Page 18

28 Map 6: Generalized Zoning Three communities have Right to Farm laws (Batavia, Elba and Pembroke). The Towns of Batavia and LeRoy have (and Oakfield and Alabama are preparing) town level Agricultural Protection Plans. The Towns of Batavia and Elba both also have active agricultural committees. The Town of LeRoy has an agricultural committee, but responded in the survey that the committee is not currently active. All the municipalities have subdivision regulations, although the definition varies. Only five communities authorize conservation subdivisions or clustered development. About half of the municipalities responded that they require and review Agricultural Data Statements or Notices of Intent for projects occurring within or near County Agricultural Districts, and all of the Towns consider the location of farms or Agricultural Districts in their review of development proposals. At the municipal level, there is not a great deal of awareness about Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) or Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) programs. Only the Town of Batavia has used this tool, which is not surprising, as development pressures are very low in all the other Towns in the County. Agricultural interests are relatively well represented on municipal boards in Genesee County, although there is room for improvement. Fewer than half of the Towns noted that Page 19

29 there is at least one representative of the agricultural community on the Planning Board. Representation on Town Boards is higher. Overall, based on responses received, there is an agricultural voice on nearly two thirds of the County s Town, Town Planning and Town Zoning Boards. The municipalities are supportive of agriculture and noted many strengths associated with farming in their Towns. The most common response related to the economics of agriculture for the community, including jobs, economic base and tax base. The second most common category of responses to this question related to conservation of important soils and the value of the land as an important resource. Farmland was also seen as important for rural character, open space and aesthetics. The third category of responses address the social benefits of farming, such as the availability of locally grown products. It is also clear that having strong family farms, local farm owners and dedicated farmers is seen as a beneficial aspect of being an agricultural community. The Towns were asked to identify major issues negatively affecting agriculture in their Town. The most common response was concerns over conflicts between farming and neighbors. This category encompassed several factors: sights and smells; dirt on the roadways associated with farming activities; dumping on farmland; and trespassing. The subject of water was second, including the need for public water in support of agricultural practices (to enhance milk production and reduce vet expenses). Other concerns that were raised included development pressures, taxes, and traffic, including conflicts with slower moving farm equipment. Most of the Towns responding did not list specific issues that they would like to see addressed in the County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan. Two communities raised concerns about selling farmland to non farmers, either investors or developers. Other issues that were mentioned included public water; ditches/ field drainage; littering on farm lands; taxes; and the need for better protections of agricultural lands under municipal zoning codes. The full results of the municipal survey are provided in Appendix E. Page 20

30 CHAPTER 3 THE AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY IN GENESEE COUNTY Genesee County is one of the most diverse and productive agricultural counties in New York State. Currently, the County ranks 4 th in farm gate sales across New York State, with annual sales estimated at $234.3 million. This represents over 4% of all farm sales in New York State. Its neighboring county, Wyoming County, ranks first, with $318.4 million in farm sales. Top NYS Farming Counties by Sales Rank County Value of Farm Sales % of NYS 1 Wyoming $ 318,412, % 2 Cayuga $ 289,235, % 3 Suffolk $ 239,818, % 4 Genesee $ 234,292, % 5 St. Lawrence $ 186,431, % Subtotal: Top 5 Counties $ 1,268,188, % New York State $ 5,471,639, % Source: US Department of Agriculture, 2012 Census of Agriculture As noted in the previous chapter, a large proportion of land in Genesee County is devoted to farmland, and the total available farmland has been increasing in Genesee County. In 2007, there was 183,539 total acres in farmland, which increased to 187,317 acres in 2012, the most recent available census year. Major crops by acreage include corn for grain and silage (30%), soybeans (7%), winter wheat (6.5%) and dry alfalfa hay (5%). These four crops comprise almost 50% of total farmland in Genesee County. Land devoted to these crops varies from year to year, but has remained remarkably steady over the past decade or so. Page 21

31 The remaining acreage devoted to farmland in the County shows the true diversity of Genesee County agriculture. Genesee County is a leading producer of cabbage, beets, sweet corn, snap beans, onions, green peas, winter squash, carrots, collard greens, spinach, lima beans and dry beans. NASS estimates that 20,500 acres of processing vegetables are grown in the County, representing 11% of the County s land base. The remaining 40% of active farmland in Genesee County is made up of pasture, fresh vegetables, small fruits including you pick blueberries and strawberries, and most substantially, corn for silage and hay ground for haylage to supply the County s 63,000 cattle and calves which make up the dairy industry of the County. Crops by Acreage, Genesee County 2012 Vegetables 11% Winter Wheat 7% Dry Alfalfa 5% Soybeans 7% Corn 30% Other 40% Source: US Department of Agriculture, 2012 Census of Agriculture Page 22

32 There are many reasons for this diversity, but principal among them is a unique combination of highly productive soils, including muck soils, in combination with a well established vegetable processing industry. Local food processing capacity remains important to the continued success of local agriculture. The locally based food processing industry, grown out of the ingenuity and cooperative spirit of Genesee County farmers, remains strong, as evidenced by the 2013 investment by Bonduelle, a French based firm, in buying assets formerly owned by the Pro Fac Cooperative, Birdseye and more recently, Allen Canning Company. AGRICULTURAL MARKETS DAIRY/BEEF Dairy is a major component of the agricultural economy in Genesee County. There are, on average, 29,000 mature dairy cows in the County, and 1,100 beef animals. The remaining 33,000 calves and heifers weigh, on average 650 lbs. While it is not well captured by NASS statistics, the acreage required to support the dairy herd is generally an acre of haylage and an acre of corn silage per mature head. This would likely mean that up to 60,000 acres of farmland in the County are dedicated to the production of forages for our mature dairy and beef herd, and an additional 30,000 acres are used to support the heifer herd. Of these 90,000 acres, 19,700 are included in the corn acreage number, so the remaining 70,000 acres (37%) supports our cattle industry. The dairy industry in Genesee County has grown steadily over the past several years, to the point where Genesee County is the 4 th largest County in the State for dairy cattle, and is producing roughly 6,960,000 cwt of milk annually. Production per cow and the number of cows in the County have grown. In 2009, there were 24,000 cows producing an average of 22,300 pounds of milk per cow. By 2014, there were 29,000 cows producing 24,000 pounds of milk per cow. Page 23 Bonduelle Processing Plant

33 Dairy Trends 35,000 30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0 Cows Avg. Milk Production ,000 22, ,000 24,000 Source: NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets The value of milk output, as measured by the statistical uniform price received in the Western New York order, is subject to significant price fluctuations. The price ranged from an average of $17.40 per cwt. in 2010 to $25.40 per cwt in With monthly variations, the price peaked as high as $26.87 in September of This variation in price affects farmers receipts. Assuming constant levels of production, revenues grew by $55.68 million between 2010 and However, more recently, the price of milk has dropped to levels not seen since In 2015, the average price was $17.30 per cwt, and 2016 s average price has been $15.12 per cwt through June of In other words, over the course of 24 months, the farm gate value of milk in Genesee County dropped by $71 million at static production Average Milk Price Received by Producers (price/hunderweight) Source: NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets WNY Market Page 24

34 Milk is still the single largest source of agricultural revenue for the County. County average farm gate sales were $236,952,000 at the 2012 agricultural census. Livestock, milk and poultry made up 63% of farm gate sales. Milk makes up 51.2% of total farm gate sales output, cattle and calves make up 10.8% and other livestock, mainly poultry and eggs, make up less than 1% of total farm gate sales. Wheat, corn for grain and soybeans comprise $41.3 million in farm gate sales, or 17.4% of the total. Farm Sales, Genesee County Processing vegetables, fresh vegetables and potatoes totaled $35.13 million, or 14.8% of the total and other crops and hay make up 3.0% of the total farm gate sales. Nursery, greenhouse, floriculture and sod, sheep goats and goat milk, and other livestock including hogs and pigs, make up the remaining 1.8% of farm gate sales in the County. Other Livestock Wheat, Cattle, calves Milk corn, soybeans vegetables Other crops/ hay Other MILK Genesee County is blessed with robust markets for its agricultural output. Processing in the dairy industry, in particular, has grown substantially in the last decade. A healthy and robust dairy industry depends upon effective markets to purchase milk not needed to service the high value fluid milk market, particularly when that market slackens during times off from school, or during holiday periods. The most effective balancing system is one that allocates milk to its highest and best use, and that identifies new and innovative ways to process milk into value added products. Existing County resources that address the milk market include the O at Ka Milk Products Cooperative, Alpina, Yancey s Fancy Cheeses, and Upstate Niagara Milk Cooperative. O at Ka, located in Batavia, processes milk into butter, dry milk powders, high value energy drinks (RTD beverages), nutritional products for pediatric, diabetic, weight management, and other uses. O At Ka is the largest producer of high protein drinks in the United States, and their products include protein shakes, and drinks, muscle recovery beverages and weight gain Page 25

35 shakes. They also produce dairy based liqueurs and pet food milk replacers. Alpina, also located in Batavia, is a Columbian based milk processor that makes specialized Greek yogurts and other cultured products, predominately for the Latino marketplace in the United States. Yancey s Fancy cheese, New York s Artisan Cheeses, is located in Pembroke and produces specialty flavored cheddar cheeses. Upstate Niagara Milk Cooperative, with fluid plants in Buffalo and Rochester, and cultured product manufacturing in West Seneca in Erie County, is the area s largest processor of milk. Farmer owned, it delivers significant value back to Genesee County producers. There are also several out of County resources, including Lactalis American Group, manufacturers of Galbani brand mozzarella cheeses in Buffalo and other smaller processors in the region. A joint venture between Mueller North America and PepsiCo, made a $240 million investment in new Greek Style yogurt manufacturing in Batavia in 2013, however the plant failed to generate the expected sales of product and has since closed. Dairy Farmers of America has purchased the assets of the joint venture, and as of this writing have yet to determine what will be manufactured at the shuttered facility in Batavia. VEGETABLES As mentioned previously, in 2013 Bonduelle made a significant investment in the processing vegetable industry in Western NY, buying the assets previously owned by Allen Canning, and prior to that, Pro Fac Cooperative and Birdseye, among others. Genesee County based manufacturing includes plants in Bergen and Oakfield, and a major cold storage and repack facility in Brockport, Monroe County. These plants process green peas, snap beans, sweet corn, beets and carrots. Other nearby processors of vegetables include: Seneca Foods, who process beets, carrots and other root vegetables, squash, green beans, sweet corn, peas, and leafy vegetables in plants located in Mt. Morris, Livingston County, Marion, Wayne County and Geneva, Ontario County; Love Beets, a manufacturer of organic and conventional freshly cooked beets, located in Rochester, New York; and Page 26

36 Pride Pak, a newly constructed leafy greens packing facility located in Medina, Orleans County. Each of Genesee County s many fresh vegetable and cabbage producers maintain significant investment in on farm storage and processing facilities which prepare their fresh vegetables for the marketplace. These facilities employ a significant amount of the farm labor utilized on farms in the county, both in the fields hand harvesting product, and in the packing sheds and storage facilities. Cabbage, onions and potatoes are harvested, cleaned, packed and stored in very capital intensive structures on farms across the County. From there, these products are marketed directly to retail food chains, nationwide restaurant chains like KFC for coleslaw, potato chip manufacturers located in nearby Pennsylvania, and through brokers into more distant retail outlets. GRAINS/FEED Corn, wheat and soybeans have robust markets both within the County and beyond. Most of the major growers of grains in the County have invested in significant storage facilities on farm, which allows these farmers to dry and condition grain at harvest, store grain efficiently, and market grain at the best time to capture the best price. Some of these growers have also invested in processing capability, which allows them to grind corn into meal to service the dairy feed marketplace. Half of the dry matter consumed by dairy cows is concentrated feed processed off farm, and about half is corn meal. There are also feed processing facilities located in Batavia, Alexander, Strykersville (Wyoming County) and Caledonia 1 (Livingston County), which offer markets for corn. The single biggest corn market is the Western New York Energy ethanol plant, located in Medina, in Orleans County. This plant came on line late in 2007, and has changed the way corn is priced and marketed in Western New York. At 22 million bushels of annual processing capacity, it could process 4 times the total output of grain corn produced in Genesee County. As such, it has created a new pricing basis for corn marketed in Western New York, and is therefore used as the measuring stick for the value of corn at any given point, as it can rail corn into the region as its source of last resort, setting the price of corn in the region. 1 This facility is currently under reconstruction after a fire Page 27

37 SOYBEANS Soybeans are the fastest growing crop by acreage in New York State. However, soybean processing is complex, and the markets are not convenient to Genesee County. The output products of soybean processing are soybean meal, an animal and particularly dairy feed, and soy oil. The soybean complex, the relative high cost investment for new processing facilities, and barriers to entry due to competition with Midwestern legacy processing plants that can still use hexane or other solvents in their extraction process, have meant that no significant manufacturers have emerged to build soybean processing plants in New York State. Soybeans therefore are shipped to Ohio and the Midwest, resulting in backhauling of soybean meal, or to a major export port and processing facility in Hamilton, Ontario. There are a few soy processing facilities in the region of Western New York that process soybeans through an extrusion process or by heat treating, but these small processors are not significant markets for the product. About 30% of soybeans produced in the County are exported. In addition to the Hamilton, Ontario outlet, export opportunities may exist at the Port of Oswego and South to ports at Norfolk, Virginia. WHEAT Wheat is marketed in a fashion similar to soybeans, with the exception that there is a somewhat major local market at Star of the West Milling in Churchville, Monroe County. The remaining major markets for wheat (mainly soft red winter, and sort white winter varieties) are in Port Colborne, Port Hope and Wellandport, Ontario. Page 28

38 ADDITIONAL MARKETS The remaining existing markets for fresh produce in the County are by our local consumers. The buy local movement is alive and well in Genesee County, and the best resource for finding local, direct tomarket or you pick farms is the Bounty of Genesee County brochure produced by Cornell Cooperative Extension. The brochure is included in the appendix, and can be found at this link: Brochure.pdf? OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPANDED PRODUCTION OF CURRENT MARKETS Mothballed Facilities Probably the greatest opportunity that exists to increase processing capacity exists at mothballed processing facilities, particularly the former Mueller Greek yogurt plant purchased by Dairy Farmers of America (DFA). It is as yet unannounced what will come next at this facility. The challenge for the dairy industry today is that demand in the US is flat, in relative terms. Fluid milk consumption is dropping, which is being offset by increases in cheese and soft product (yogurt) consumption. Dairy Major opportunities will emerge from new product introduction, reinvigoration of export demand, particularly in Asia, and emergence of new market demand in Latin America. Most of this opportunity will displace milk from Western US production, to be replaced somewhat from new market development of Eastern US production. More importantly, there is an emergence of milk component (protein fractionation, high value components and specialized nutraceuticals) manufacturing that Page 29

39 may impact dairy markets in Genesee County. Two groups of producers, one in Cayuga County and the other in Livingston County, have made significant investments over $100 million to build this type of manufacturing capacity. This could be the direction considered by DFA. Other opportunities for dairy are: continued growth in demand for the types for products that O At Ka is producing, and emergence of interest in specialty, locally produced cheeses, from the flavored cheddar type products produced at Yancey s, to the goat and Jersey cow s milk products being produced, and warmly received in local retail outlets, by First Light Creamery in East Bethany. Local Markets for Local Products Genesee County producers face a unique opportunity in the coming years. By using their tremendous land base and entrepreneurial skills, producers can address emerging demand for locally produced vegetables. Consumers are demanding more locally grown foods, and retailers are responding to the emergence of location and producer based demand models that are disrupting the consumer marketplace. Bagged greens and fresh vegetables here to fore not produced in Genesee County are beginning to be in demand by retailers. The question is simply, can you grow this for us? and what price do you need to do so? This opportunity will likely emerge in a bifurcated fashion. One aspect is intensive agriculture in high capital investment ventures that produce greenhouse tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, etc. and specialty items like mushrooms. Interest in locally produced vegetables has spurred strong capital investment in Controlled Climate Agriculture (intense greenhouse production) in the region. Another opportunity is in the increased demand for medium to large scale production of locally grown leafy greens processed centrally at Pride Pak in Medina and other facilities. The Pride Pak facility allows for the production of bagged leafy greens from Western New York fields, eliminating the need for individual on farm packing facilities, and allowing for the aggregation of product from multiple farms in the region. This facility, which opened in the Fall of 2016, addresses significant interest on the part of regional retailers to find locally produced products to replace those from drought stricken areas of the far west (Central Valley and San Joaquin Valley in California, and Arizona) during the spring through fall growing period in the Northeast. Ironically, Western New York also faced a drought in 2016, although droughts of this intensity are rare (once every 60 years) and usually not long lasting. Other potential markets include small scale flour production to meet locally grown demand for the bakery industry, malting barley and hops production for the emerging craft brewery and distillery industry, and potentially small fruits production for flavoring in locally produced alcoholic beverages. These markets are dependent on additional capital investment for down the line processing. Page 30

40 Corn Corn markets will grow as feed demand grows, and as Western New York Energy continues to produce ethanol in the region. Some capital investment has occurred at the ethanol plant to increase efficiency, although that will not necessarily result in increased corn purchases. However, the demand for corn at this one location is four times the output of Genesee County production, and more corn produced would likely find a home and displace railed in corn. This, of course, is driven by the breakeven production cost for Genesee County Farmers, and the alternatives for production of other grains, processing vegetables and oilseeds. Soybean Markets Soybean processing represents a significant unmet opportunity for market growth. However, the path forward is complicated. It is necessary to have the right combination of process, market development of all by products, and capital investment to produce a reasonable return for owners. This situation has not yet emerged in Genesee County, and Midwest domination remains. BARRIERS TO NEW MARKETS Ironically, a key barrier to new market development in Genesee County has been the success of the status quo. Expanding into new markets requires risk taking and capital investment on the part of agricultural entrepreneurs. While the County s farmers are at least marginally profitable, there is less incentive to explore new products and markets. Young people who are returning to production agriculture have found easy sledding in the early part of this decade. However, the market is changing, and farmers are seeing their returns from agricultural production declining to the mean or below since This has not dampened their enthusiasm, but has diminished the capital and investment interest necessary to get small scale specialty processing ventures off the ground. Borrowed capital is available for projects that have some means of providing equity, have produced business plans that project rational growth in sales and returns on investment, and have clearly demonstrated market research and potential. Locations for project development are numerous, particularly in Genesee County where an industrial manufacturing park specifically developed for agricultural processing exists in Batavia, and numerous other small shovel ready sites exist. The barriers simply are the lack of the right person, idea and capital to emerge simultaneously. This happens organically, but takes time and patience on the part of developers, financiers and producers of agricultural inputs. Page 31

41 CHAPTER 4 SWOT ANALYSIS SWOT is an acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. It is used as a tool to identify areas to develop (strengths and opportunities) and areas to intervene (weaknesses and threats). Genesee County agriculture has tremendous potential for continued viability and vitality. The following discussion identifies the components that weaken and threaten the industry as we celebrate the great assets and opportunities the industry has before it. STRENGTHS Land The County has 187,317 acres in agricultural production. The majority of farm lands are prime soils, soils with above average production capacity, and rare and valuable muck land. With these land assets, Genesee County is well positioned to have a viable agricultural future. People: Farming Tradition There are 549 farm families in Genesee County, including some of the most successful, skillful and productive farmers in the State. These producers are assisted everyday by 901 employees, who are dedicated to this industry and either have grown up in the industry, or are here temporarily to improve their financial position and that of their families back in their home countries. Stability The total number of operators of farms in the County is 888, with 31% of those being women operators. Roughly half of the farm owners work off the farm more than 100 days a year, with 41% working off the farm for 200 days or more. This is a strength in that it brings stability to farm operations that might be challenged by low commodity prices at any given point in time. Diversity of Scale Diversity of scale is recognized as a strength of Genesee County agriculture. While there is a significant concentration of agriculture production and output in a relatively small number of producers in Genesee County, this group of large scale producers is complemented by the large number (500) of smaller scale and part time operating farmers in the County. Their presence helps to maintain the rural character of Genesee County, and helps provide local Page 32

42 volunteer services of great value to the local communities, including local political leadership and volunteer firefighting, to name a few. Local Support The advocacy of groups such as the Farm Bureau to take on local, regional, State and federal issues affecting agriculture in the community is a benefit to farmers in the County. Local residents are also very supportive of agriculture: residents identify very strongly with being an agricultural community, and support farm friendly policies. Support Services While there are farms of all sizes, 80% of the County s agricultural output is produced by 20% of its farmers. According to the 2012 Agriculture Census, there were 41 farms of 1,000 acres or more in Genesee County. Large scale producers bring stability and substantial access to markets as processors and shippers establish close by infrastructure to support their production. This group also ensures that substantial agriculture support infrastructure, such as fertilizer, seed and chemical suppliers, machinery and equipment suppliers, banks and feed suppliers maintain significant resources in or near the County. County Leadership in Resource Planning Resource Planning on the part of the County is a strength for Genesee County agriculture. When the comprehensive plan for the future of the County s water resources was passed by the County Legislature, a significant risk was taken by the County to ensure that farmland was protected from sprawl development spurred by drinking water resource development. While the Smart Growth Plan was met with skepticism by some in the agriculture community when it was passed, the vast majority of farmers we interviewed for this report have recognized its value in maintaining undisturbed farmland resources and for its rationale in directing population growth to areas with support infrastructure for greater density, and away from agricultural areas. This helped minimize conflicts between residential and agricultural uses and supported the continued viability of farming activities. This foresight has helped ensure that large blocks of contiguous land will remain for agricultural production for the long term. Progressive Producers Another strength of Genesee County agriculture is the progressive nature of our producers. Genesee County farms are likely to be early adopters of new technology. Local farmers are taking advantage of emerging precision agriculture tools such as variable rate seeding, fertilizer and pesticide application, lime application, manure application and precision application of other inputs. Producers have already widely adopted auto steer technologies, and are more regularly tracking yield variation across fields, as well as mapping productivity and seeking ways to mitigate poorer performing areas of the farms they manage. Going Page 33

43 forward, the use of drones for scouting, irrigation management, and precision timed application of corrective inputs will be additional benefits of technological advancement. Proximity to Markets Proximity to markets in often mentioned as a strength of Genesee County agriculture. The County is within 500 miles of 50% of the North American population and 50% of the wealth in North America. This combination provides Genesee County agriculture with the ability to access markets with relative ease. There are a number of large scale producers who directly access these markets with trucking fleets and direct retail relationships. In addition, the County also has market access infrastructure to reach consumers through processing companies and aggregators like Farm Fresh First, LLC. These businesses play an important intermediary role in reaching consumers on behalf of our producers. Agricultural Industry Cluster Genesee County s agricultural sector operates in a manner similar to an industry cluster, sharing common markets, specialized suppliers and skill needs in a manner that strengthens the local economy. Genesee County has long been recognized as a hub of strong agriculture market opportunities. As a result, it is no wonder that machinery and equipment dealers, seed, chemical and fertilizer distributors, feed manufacturers, commercial and Farm Credit banks, dairy and fruit and vegetable processing, all have a strong and active presence in Genesee County. WEAKNESSES: Price Volatility Genesee County agriculture is dealing with a present commodity price drop which has severely impacted profitability in the short run on our farms. Prices for all commodities, such as corn, wheat, soybeans, milk, etc. have dropped significantly over the past 3 years, and may have reestablished a low price base for the future. This is a demand based issue. The United States agricultural sector is becoming increasingly dependent on export markets for growth and price strength. We need strong and stable trading partners, particularly in Asia, to be, quite literally, hungry for our products and able to pay for them. This involves the strengthening of their economies going forward, and the ability of our Nation to keep export opportunities open for our producers. Infrastructure: Roadways The current condition of our rural roads throughout the County is mentioned as a weakness in discussions with producers. While there is a good deal of back and forth between producers and Town officials regarding who bears responsibility for this issue, and the corrective actions that need to be taken to address it, the challenge is that our roads are Page 34

44 deteriorating, and heavy equipment operated by, particularly our larger farms, is contributing to the further deterioration. Additionally, traffic on corridors is seen as an impediment to farm operations. In particular, higher truck traffic volumes on the Route 63 corridor from Batavia through Pavilion impede farmers from accessing their fields. There is fear that traffic associated with the prospective STAMP development in the Town of Alabama will create similar problems along the Route 77 corridor. Traffic conflicts present potential safety hazards when operating large and slow farm equipment on these busy roadways. Labor: Field Crews Labor availability may also be a weakness for our producers who rely on hand harvest crews, and are having a more and more difficult time sourcing laborers from a shrinking immigrant pool, particularly in the face of strong enforcement action on the part of Immigration Enforcement (ICE). Training: Middle Management Additionally, producers are greatly concerned with the lack of properly trained mid level workers who begin employment with farms in the County. Basic business skills, from budgeting to bookkeeping to payroll etc. are lacking in prospective employees. This combined with the need for agriculture career awareness improvement were cited as important aspects of our current educational system that need further development. Employment Regulation Employment regulation, led by the recent increased minimum wage and its inherent trickle up effects, has the potential to severely disrupt the labor system on Genesee County farms. Farms are already finding it difficult to find qualified employees, particularly for higher skilled work. The costs of increased health care benefits, discounted value (from a wage calculation perspective) of farmer provided housing, mandated benefits exclusive to New York State, such as unemployment insurance, family leave benefits, unemployment benefits for H2A employees, (non residents on a work visa), and proposed regulations such as overtime pay, maximum work hours, are not practical for agricultural labor. The agriculture workforce also faces a stigma. There is anecdotal evidence that regulators at the NYS Department of Labor and advocacy groups have targeted workers on Genesee County farms with an information campaign designed to inform them about other job opportunities, denigrating the value and importance of farm work as their principal strategy. Lack of Processing Capacity For certain products, there is a relative lack of some processing capabilities. In particular, there has been difficulty in scaling up processing for soybeans. Small scale meat production also lacks capacity, due to the intermittent nature of demand, which makes it economically tenuous, when demand for specialty butchering tends to cluster at certain times of the year. Page 35

45 OPPORTUNITIES: Demand for Local Foods Genesee County producers face an unprecedented new interest in selling to a public that is eager to understand where their food comes from, and how it is being produced. These consumers are expecting their market intermediaries (retailers) to source locally grown product when at all possible, and to seek out new avenues for attracting this food. Genesee County agriculture benefits from a relatively affluent consumer base within a 5 hour drive of Genesee County farms. A strong new interest on the part of those consumers to make effective connections with producers is a real opportunity. Climate and Geology Not withstanding the drought conditions faced in 2016, it is generally recognized that Genesee County has a unique combination of an excellent land base and abundant rainfall and snow recharge as a result of being influenced by two Great Lakes. This provides an opportunity of significant importance as Western US producers may become more constrained in what they can produce as a result of a lack of water. Water Access to clean water is increasingly important for Genesee County farmers. Potable water is needed for processing, dairy operations, and compliance with the recently passed Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Farmers can t always depend on surface water or the aquifer due to availability or quality well water often requires expensive treatment. Regulations controlling water quality, food safety, and access to water are having a huge impact. Additionally, particularly with this year s drought, there is misinformation on agricultural use of water. Given the resources put in place to create a County wide water system, there exists a tremendous opportunity to acknowledge the diligent enforcement of lateral restrictions, and farmers acceptance of same, with the expansion of County water infrastructure to service the agriculture industry. There is certainly concern about the capacity of the current piping supplying water from Monroe County; it is not large enough to supply sufficient volume for future growth. As part of a renegotiated agreement with Monroe County, agricultural access and usage should be taken into account, potentially allowing for a reduced rate for agricultural water use. Given that lateral restrictions will discourage growth in water consumption going forward, allowing agricultural access to public water at reduced rates will ensure long term revenue streams for system operators. Research New York State and Genesee County s current agricultural research infrastructure provides an opportunity to identify new products, markets and technologies. There is a robust history in New York of effective applied research for the agriculture industry. Meetings with Page 36

46 Genesee County farmers underscored the importance of research to the local agricultural sector. Topics of concern included invasive pest identification, effective disease and weed control, and enhanced organic production. Farmers are witnessing more problems with weeds and pests due to milder winters. Market opportunities related to intense interest in locally grown crops also require breeding programs to develop leafy greens and other produce cultivars adapted to the local climate. Research helps all from the home gardener to the major producer. Ensuring that research resources at the New York State Agriculture Experiment Station at Geneva, local research efforts and Cooperative Extension are focused on 21 st century needs will become increasingly important, as will funding from both private and public sources to support this effort. THREATS Canadian Competition Genesee County is located in close proximity to the Canadian border, putting pressure on local producers, who must compete with a Canadian dollar that is 70 to 75% of US Dollar value, when it was at par just 3 years ago. As a result, agriculture products can enter the local marketplace from Ontario at a decided price advantage. Canadian products may displace some of our commodities in local markets, such the ethanol plant for example. Additionally, nursery and greenhouse products produced at well established ranges in Southern Ontario will compete favorably with locally produced products. Immigration Policy The lack of sound immigration policy in the US is and will continue to hinder the attraction and retention of a workforce willing to do the work required to operate a successful Genesee County farm operation. While emerging technologies, like robotics in dairy farm settings, and precision weeding technologies, are beginning to address this issue, these technologies are prohibitively expensive at present, and are not well adapted to the iterative activities required on vegetable farms in Genesee County. Wage Rates The new minimum wage schedule, which will eventually lead to a $12.50 per hour wage rate where wage rates just two hours distant are 75% of that number, will put Genesee County producers at an immediate cost disadvantage. With little to no margins in the current low commodity price environment, this outcome will severely squeeze Genesee County producers in profound ways. Property Taxes Property taxes are a threat, simply because the revenue generating infrastructure of local governments is constrained to garnering tax revenue from real property, and agriculture is Page 37

47 threatened by this challenge. In Genesee County, average property taxes for Local, County and School taxes, are in the range of $36.50 per acre. This compares favorably with most of the adjoining Counties; however, Pennsylvania producers pay $21.75 per acre on average in property taxes. This is an issue that has been addressed to varying degrees by State policies, to provide property tax relief and to cap further expansion of property taxes by local Governments, but these measures do not address the basic issue of the fact that most government services are funded through this means. Development There is concern that taking farmland to establish non farm economic development projects is not in the best interests of the County and should be discouraged. In particular, there is concern in the agricultural community about the appropriate use, and potential misuse, of eminent domain statutes. Often, sites chosen for economic development purposes are prime soils, due to their suitability for development as well as farming. There is sentiment that these lands should be prioritized for continued agricultural use, not economic development. Regulatory Structure The tendency of regulators to look for indirect strategies to regulate land use by farmers is also considered a threat. Specifically, proposals like the Waters of the US regulatory reform under the Clean Water Act are considered as serious threats to the agriculture community. Policy Awareness The agricultural community is a shrinking proportion of the electorate. Elected officials are not necessarily aware of agricultural issues/ concerns. While Genesee County has a strong agricultural tradition, the number of farm families represents a smaller share of the population than was the case in the past. As a result, agricultural friendly policies may not have the support they did in the past. As an example, Cornell Cooperative Extension and Soil and Water Conservation Board are important institutions for agricultural community; however, their budgets have been stagnant or cut. Each year, they must compete for funds annually through the County budget process. Speculation Finally, the potential for outside investors to begin aggressively bidding on, and acquiring farmland in the County was raised as a threat. There are recent examples of equity firms purchasing farmland in neighboring Counties, which has had the tendency to drive up prices beyond what is economically supportable for agricultural use. Genesee County farmland values may appear undervalued to out of state investors, who don t necessarily factor in holding costs (e.g. property tax load and the shorter growing season). Page 38

48 CHAPTER 5 VISION, GOALS AND STRATEGIES Agriculture is extremely important to Genesee County s economy and its way of life. It supports thousands of families across the County, either directly or indirectly, through an interrelated chain of business from seed suppliers, to farmers, from processing companies to outlets selling farm products. It is part of the culture of the County, from children participating in 4 H programs, through the Farm Bureau and the County Fair. It contributes to local residents pride in their community, and the beauty of its landscape. For these reasons and more, it is a priority of Genesee County to keep agriculture vital and successful in the County. Genesee County has been successful with preserving agricultural land. To date, development pressures have been low, and most of the conversion of agricultural land to non agricultural uses has been for priority economic development initiatives. County programs and policies, such as the Smart Growth Plan, have been important in achieving this success. The agricultural community has also played a crucial role, keeping on top of new technologies, identifying new markets and adopting new ways to be more efficient. It is important for Genesee County to build upon this success, and adopt policies and programs that can enhance and support the agricultural community. A common theme emerged during the process of developing this Farmland and Agricultural Protection Plan: the key to protecting farmland in Genesee County is the continued strength of the economics of farming. Local farmers recognize the value of prime farmland, and are dedicated to protecting it for agricultural use as long as farming remains a viable business that can support their families. The following section will outline recommendations intended to help the County achieve these goals. It begins with a discussion of the recommendations in the 2001 Farmland Protection Plan, and then outlines goals and strategies developed for this Plan. Page 39

49 THE 2001 GENESEE COUNTY FARMLAND PROTECTION PLAN Agriculture is successful in Genesee County in part due to past planning efforts in support of agricultural values. The existing 2001 Genesee County Farmland Protection Plan has been one element of that success, and it is the intent of this document to preserve and build upon the 2001 Plan. As such, as a starting point, this section of the report summarizes the key recommendations from that plan, with annotations to update them for current conditions. Refine the Strategic Farmland Map and incorporate it into the Smart Growth Plan The map 1 itself should become a companion to the Smart Growth Plan and be used to inform town decision making on land use and infrastructure issues. Update: Genesee County did incorporate concepts included in the Strategic Farmland Map (prime soils, Agricultural Districts) in developing updates to the County s Smart Growth Plan. Smart Growth areas avoid prime agricultural lands and development is directed primarily to the traditional Villages and hamlets, along with the City of Batavia. Moving forward, the County should continue to direct growth away from prime agricultural soils, areas of concentrated agricultural activity and lands within Agricultural Districts. Reaffirm the importance of existing agricultural districts especially with regard to water and sewer extensions The decision of one or more towns to allow lateral access without 2 extenuating circumstances could create a precedent that endangers agricultural district integrity as well as other farmland protection measures throughout the county. Update: Extension of water and sewer infrastructure has been effectively controlled through the County s Smart Growth Plan, which, as noted above, respects the importance of Agricultural Districts. The County s residents and municipal leaders have generally been supportive of the concept of protecting agricultural lands, and while several communities have extended water service to their residents, the policy has been to offer water to existing residents only, and to respect the concept of lateral restrictions to discourage residential growth outside the designated growth areas. The County reaffirms the need to protect the integrity of agricultural districts. However, modern agricultural practices increasingly need access to clean water to be efficient and profitable. Recommendations in this updated plan will address provision of water for agricultural use without encouraging unchecked residential growth. Page 40

50 Conduct an audit of each town's zoning and subdivision provisions and recent past development patterns to help the towns understand the potential impact on maintaining 3 a critical mass of farmland Once the audits are conducted the County Planning Department and the Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board should host a summit of all town officials to present results and discuss alternatives. Update: Local municipalities are supportive of agricultural protection, and many of the communities in Genesee County have adopted zoning language that recognizes the value of agriculture and seeks to encourage it as a primary land use in the County. However, more could be done to improve the language of local zoning ordinances. Recommendations in this updated plan will include sample zoning laws, particularly models that are designed to protect agricultural lands from conflicts from adjacent residential development. 4 Consider the designation of an agricultural production zone The concentration of large, highly productive farms in Genesee County as well as smaller farms clustered together may lend themselves to a designation of a zone to protect the land's highest and best use production agriculture. Update The intent of this provision in the original Farmland Protection Plan was to establish a true agricultural zoning district as opposed to agricultural districts that also allow residential development. Some Towns have adopted Land Conservation districts, and at least one has a true Agriculture District, where agriculture is explicitly the preferred use. Several other Towns in the County are explicit in the intent section of their Agriculture Residential zoning districts that agriculture has precedence over residential uses. As noted in item 3, above, this plan will provide additional zoning tools the municipalities may adopt to help protect agricultural lands. 5 Consider use of incentive zoning as a mitigation tool Take the opportunity with incentive zoning to leverage protected land or protection funds when upzoning land within the Smart Growth Development areas. Update Some communities in the County adopted incentive zoning. The Town of Alabama used this tool in association with the proposed STAMP project to obtain concessions such as funding for their Town Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan. Although this tool has had limited use due to the current lack of development pressures in the County, it remains a valuable option for future application. Page 41

51 6 Develop new funding sources specifically for a farmland protection fund See farmland protection as avoidance of future infrastructure costs, find ways now to tap the engine of the coming development and protect the investment you make. Update Given fiscal constraints faced by local governments, no new local funding sources for farmland protection have been identified. However, the County remains committed to farmland protection, and applauds New York State for funding the Farmland Protection Implementation Grant program. 7 Create Enhanced Agricultural District Program for mid term protection of Farmland Involves a voluntary commitment to restrict non farm development for a period of 10 years, with automatic re enrollment, in exchange for annual payments and priority in Genesee County's participation in the state's PDR program. Update: There is no support at this time from either the County or the State for this program. Development pressures are still relatively low, and there are no funds to support an aggressive enhanced agricultural district program. It is a creative approach for possible future consideration, but is not a priority under current circumstances. 8 Prepare to Purchase Development Rights Set an acreage goal, develop dedicated revenue sources, refine the selection components, and position Genesee County, with its exceptional resources, to make maximum use of increasing State PDR funding. Update: Given the economics of farmland in Genesee County, a traditional Purchase of Development Rights program will not be driven by the financial numbers, at least in the near term. However, the County supports voluntary programs driven by a sense of stewardship and a desire to protect lands. Genesee County also supports participation in the State s Farmland Protection Implementation Grants. The priority selection components for participation in such a program are outlined in the following chapter. Page 42

52 9 10 Integrate a farmland protection component into the County's public education efforts about agriculture, and Conduct periodic estate planning seminars for farmers and professionals. Update There remains strong support for better public education about agriculture, its operations and the facts of life of living in a rural setting. There is also support for education about farm operations and estate planning. This plan includes updated recommendations regarding outreach at a variety of levels. 11 Advocate for implementation of the Agriculture Development Plan. Update Genesee County strongly supports implementation of the Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan. GOALS AND STRATEGIES The vision for farming in Genesee County is a robust, active and vital agricultural economy that incorporates a mixture of farming types, ranging from large scale farms selling to national markets to smaller scale, niche farming activities. It embraces the diversity of farming in the County, with strength in corn, vegetables, grains and dairy, while supporting new markets. The vision for farming includes a strong agricultural support sector, where agricultural support businesses, processing firms, suppliers and markets are an important component to the success of local agriculture. It includes a supportive public, and the availability of support services, such as training courses at Genesee Community College, the local Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Soil and Water Conservation Board. Genesee County recognizes that the success of farming in the County is due to its world class soils, and has taken proactive steps to preserve those soils for agricultural use through means such as the County s Smart Growth Plan. The County also recognizes the importance of a strong agricultural economy for the economic health of the County in general, and the County supports policies that establish favorable conditions for farmers to thrive. Page 43

53 The following goals and strategies are presented for protecting agriculture in Genesee County. GOAL 1: RETAIN PRIME FARMLANDS FOR AGRICULTURAL USE Protecting prime farmlands is critical to the long term success and sustainability of agriculture. Genesee County has world quality agricultural soils: 88 percent of the County s acreage is categorized as productive farmland, including prime soils, soils prime when drained, and unique muck soils. The priority is to keep these soils in agricultural use. In practice, this means limiting conversions to other types of uses wherever possible, and protecting farmlands from intrusions from adjacent development. It also means maintaining a critical mass of contiguous lands, and avoiding fragmentation of parcels. The good news is that there has been relatively little development pressure in Genesee County to date, and the trend has been adding parcels to the Agricultural Districts. However, it must remain an explicit goal that prime farm soils be preserved. Agriculture is not possible without the continued availability of farmlands for farming. Strategies: Land use controls The County should take a leadership role in promoting appropriate land use controls that aim to protect prime soils from inappropriate development. Strategies include: Reaffirm Support for the County Smart Growth Plan Genesee County s Smart Growth Plan, which identifies areas where development should be concentrated, has had a major role in protecting farmlands from intrusion of non compatible uses. As water lines are extended into more and more areas of the County, reaffirming support for the Smart Growth Plan will help diminish development pressures on lands outside the designated development areas. While local municipalities have generally cooperated on the concept of Smart Growth, there is periodic turnover in municipal leadership, and new Town Board members may need education about Smart Growth, its goals and its benefits. Ensure Effective Land Use Tools for Municipalities The County should also support efforts to develop additional land use tools to protect agricultural lands. Providing local municipalities with support in developing local comprehensive plans, improved zoning and subdivision controls, and similar techniques will also assist with protecting agriculture as a land use in the County. Many of the Towns zoning does not provide sufficient protections for agricultural lands and agricultural activities. The County should develop model zoning language to help municipalities adopt appropriate zoning tools. Subdivision tools are even more lacking; many municipalities do not have locally specific subdivision regulations, and rely on the State enabling legislation. Education on more progressive subdivision approaches, such as conservation subdivisions, is needed. Page 44

54 The County should also assist Towns with pursuing town level Farmland Protection Plans. Although Genesee County is one of the most productive farm counties in New York State, only four of its municipalities have, or are in the process of adopting, a local Farmland Protection Plan. Strategies: Easements While development pressures are not currently strong, it is important to monitor land values, and encourage landowners to protect their lands. Strategies include: Explore the Feasibility of Easements and Purchase of Development Rights (PDRs) A conservation easement is a tool used to keep lands protected from development. It is a legal agreement, entered into by the landowner with a land trust or similar entity that restricts the use of their land. Most typically, a landowner agrees to not develop the land for any use other than open space, but often activities such as farming are allowed. The land trust monitors compliance and ensures continuity through any changes in ownership. The legal protection runs with the deed and holds future owners to the same restrictions as the donating owner, although the land remains in private ownership. Easements are flexible and can be tailored to the specific circumstances. They can even be established as long term temporary easements. Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) is a program where landowners are compensated for agreeing to restrict development on their lands. Typically seen in areas where development pressures are strong. Given the high value of agricultural land, limited funds and limited development pressures in Genesee County, it is not likely that an active PDR program will be instituted in Genesee County in the near future. During public input meetings, there was little to no interest among farming landowners to sell properties for development purposes. The exception was sales for economic development efforts, such as the Genesee Valley Agri business Park in Batavia, or the STAMP project, which are seen avenues to jobs for County residents. Land protection through easements remains a powerful strategy. In particular, the County should encourage voluntary participation in easement programs, where landowners donate easements in order to protect their lands. The County should also be partnering with regional land trusts on outreach and education efforts, and should continue to monitor development pressures, and explore PDRs more aggressively in the future in the event development pressures increase. Page 45

55 Strategies: Policies Consider agriculture in establishment of County policies Genesee County has a number of agriculture friendly policies. It has an excellent track record with the Agricultural Districts program, with a track record of increasing numbers of acres placed into the program: County records indicate nearly 5,000 acres were added to Agricultural Districts over the past 10 years. Its economic development arm, the Genesee County Economic Development Corporation (GCEDC) has a history of supporting agriculturally related projects. The County s land use working group considers agricultural issues in its annual recommendations. This approach is commendable, and should be encouraged. Additional ag friendly policies the County could consider include avoidance of prime soils when selecting sites for County projects, and encouragement of Right to Farm laws at the local level. GOAL 2: CONTINUOUSLY REINFORCE THE VALUE OF FARMING AS AN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY Farming is a major economic driver in Genesee County. Farms provide direct jobs, income and tax base, and also support a range of related support businesses. Local economic development officers already recognize the value of agriculture, and have targeted the attraction of agriculturally related businesses through means such as the Genesee Valley Agri business Park in Batavia. The county should continue to prioritize agriculture and agricultural related businesses as key elements of the local economy, and develop incentives, economic development initiatives and job training programs to support its continued role in the local economic base. Strategy: New Markets Finding markets for agricultural products helps keep agriculture economically viable. Strategies include: Explore New Markets for traditional products: Farmers can be most successful when there are ready markets for their products. Genesee County can help by identifying and encouraging new potential markets for the County s agricultural products. With the closure of the yogurt plant, the need is most urgent for milk products. While the vegetable market is more stable, it could also benefit from an expanded market base. The County should work with the Genesee County EDC and the private sector to identify processing Page 46

56 companies that purchase the County s typical products (milk, corn, leafy greens), as well as other value added opportunities. Identify Niche Markets: Many of the larger farming operations in the County have established connections with markets for their products. However, there are opportunities to assist smaller operations and start up farmers with identifying viable niche markets. These would include organic produce, hops, and possibly meat processing, particularly for grass fed, ethnic or other specialty markets. Strategy: Economic Development Initiatives Given the prominence of the industry in Genesee County, agriculture deserves to receive economic development incentives. Strategies include: Build out the Agriculture Business Parks: Genesee County has been very successful at identifying and initiating agricultural development projects, such as the Genesee Valley Agri Business Park in Batavia. The County should continue this aggressive approach, which helps support markets for local growers. To the extent feasible, business recruitment should encourage the types of tenants that support agricultural markets. Target Incentives: The County should seek to offer farmers the same types of incentives given to traditional business owners: Access to capital, grants and financial resources Technical assistance with business start ups for beginning farmers; advanced management skills for growing firms. (see section on education, below). Explore possibility of property tax relief options. Succession planning Development of Agricultural support businesses. Strategy: Developing a Modern Workforce A major concern that emerged was recruiting, training and maintaining a workforce that is able to meet the needs of modern agriculture. Strategies include: Provide Education in Needed Skills. The County should continue to work with Genesee Community College, Cornell Cooperative Extension, BOCES, SUNY Brockport, Cornell and other partners to provide needed training. Training and technical assistance with State/ federal regulations (e.g. immigration, wetlands) Page 47

57 Management Training in middle management skills (accounting, management, payroll, etc.) necessary to run a modern farm. Training in these skills would assist not only the agricultural sector, but be transferable to other fields. Leadership Genesee continue to include, incorporate agricultural careers Emerging technologies (precision agriculture, use of drones, certified dairy processing curriculum, mechatronics) Support skills (e.g. CDL licenses for truck drivers products to market) Ag Technology programs in High Schools Ag Academy: support and possibly expand the Ag Academy program that provides college credits on agriculturally related classes. Farm safety training: OSHA training; pesticide use; tractor safety for youth (through 4 H) Workforce Recruitment and Retention. One of the major issues identified by the farming community was finding and keeping a workforce. The need was wide ranging, from entry level workers, to workers with specialized skills, such as drone operators. The need for labor includes direct, on farm needs, to support services such as truck drivers needed to get the product to market. In addition to training, there are several levels where the County can assist in this effort: Generalized outreach about the diverse types of opportunities available in the agricultural field Providing assistance to improve conditions (social, housing, recreational needs of field workers) Advocacy with legal issues (e.g. immigration, Department of Labor) Strategy: Research Research: There is a need for strong agricultural research. Relevant topics include: High value, climate appropriate vegetable products. Disease/Pest resistant crops Organics, particularly effective organic weed control techniques Strategies for climate adaptation: as the area experiences more extreme weather, there may be a need for new strains of plants. Other means of using agricultural by products Page 48

58 GOAL 3: PROVIDE THE INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDED FOR A SUCCESSFUL AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY Increasingly, farmers need quality infrastructure to be successful. The highest priority is roads to provide access to fields and markets. Conflicts with non agricultural traffic is a concern of many farmers. Access to clean water, electricity, natural gas and high speed internet connections are increasingly important as well. Strategy: Traditional Infrastructure Water Water is necessary for both safety and economic competitiveness reasons, as was demonstrated by the drought in Health codes set standards, particularly for larger employers, and new federal food handling regulations underscore the need for clean, abundant water. Both dairy and produce operations are able to have higher yields with access to water. Genesee County has taken a relatively strong stance on limiting waterline extensions. However, farmers increasingly want access to public water, as it is a vital factor in productivity and profitability. Genesee County could take a leadership role in addressing water issues and developing a creative approach to extending water lines for agricultural use while limiting the potential growth impacts from public water. The County should support extending public water lines where this infrastructure can increase the viability of agriculture. However, such extensions should include strict lateral restrictions to limit growth inducing impacts. A number of stakeholders expressed concern about the capacity of the supply pipe from Monroe County. Genesee County should investigate whether additional capital improvements are necessary to assure sufficient water supply, and work with Monroe County to address this issue if it is a concern. Drainage/Stormwater Management Managing drainage is increasingly more challenging due to regulatory changes regarding stormwater management and wetlands. Given these challenges, Genesee County should take a proactive approach to assist with stormwater management in agricultural areas. The County s Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board provides protective language in its NOI review: In addition to the Ag & Markets requirements regarding the restoration of severed drainage improvements and access ways, hydrants and valve boxes shall not be placed directly in agricultural fields. In the past these elements have been placed in agricultural fields and mitigation work had to be undertaken in order to minimize the hardship to the farmer. The Board also asks that the project engineers work closely with both the County Soil and Water Page 49

59 Conservation District staff and landowners in order to identify and restore the existing drainage improvements affected by this project. The County may also want to explore the feasibility of establishing drainage districts, based on the County s watersheds. Roads/ Traffic: A recurring theme is the increasing difficulty farmers have in accessing their fields. Some of the concerns include conflicts with traffic, improvements that impair culverts, and utility lines with insufficient clearance. There is also concern about maintaining a roadway system that facilitates trucking of products to markets. Genesee County could explore developing model roadway standards that set minimum standards protective of agricultural use of the roadways. There should be standards on appropriate lane widths and culvert widths, and roadways should be built to handle the weight load of heavy farm equipment. The standards could recommend wider shoulders on roads heavily used by agricultural equipment. When roadway work is proposed, it should be reviewed against the standards, and where feasible, the roadway should be designed to meet those standards. The County should also consider developing enhanced signage that raises awareness of the need to share the road with farmers. Particularly in the western part of the County, where the STAMP project could be drawing significant amount of traffic from outside Genesee County, there will be a need to educate drivers about sharing the road. In certain locations, parallel access routes may be feasible. If conflicts increase, it may warrant investigating the feasibility of establishing Agricultural Priority Routes. Broadband For farm operations, high speed internet is increasingly a necessity. Many modern farming techniques use web based applications, such as GPS, to maximize yields, track production, and manage operations. The County should prioritize extending high speed internet throughout the County. Three Phase Electricity It is recognized that high quality electrical service is needed at the agricultural business parks; what is less well known is the increasing necessity of three phase electrical power for farms. This type of service is expensive, and the rules for qualifying for service are extremely complex and poorly understood. The County should work with the PSC to determine if a farm qualifies as a major user, eligible under the tariff process for assistance. Page 50

60 Other Infrastructure There was support for natural gas upgrades. The County should also establish best practices advice for renewable energy. Many farmers are exploring the feasibility of alternative energy sources, such as wind, solar, and bio digesters. Best practices advice on what to consider when evaluating the benefits of alternative energy at a site can assist farmers with their decision making. Strategy: Institutional Infrastructure Institutions and Policies. Local farmers value the institutional support obtained from organizations such as the Soil and Water Conservation Board, the Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Farm Bureau, BOCES and other similar groups. However, there is concern that funding for these organizations has been shrinking, often drastically. Many must justify their budgets (and their existence) on an annual basis, with no long term commitments from their funders. The County should consider ways to offer a more stable, dependable funding process for these organizations. Options include multi year budget allocations or dedicated funding streams. In the face of tight budgets, reassurance that these programs will survive will be supportive of agricultural issues. In terms of policies, the County should advocate for farm friendly State policies on issues such as the minimum wage, housing allowances, unemployment benefit rates, overtime, and maximum hours that are targeted to the unique nature of agricultural workloads. The County should also advocate for assistance from New York State on recruiting an appropriate labor pool, including help with negotiating regulations for guest workers. GOAL 4: EDUCATE AND ENGAGE THE CONSUMER As a smaller percentage of the population is directly connected to agriculture, more education is needed about agriculture, its practices and its benefits. It is important to maintain the connection between farmers and consumers, to educate the public about where their food comes from, and to increase awareness about the realities of life in an agricultural community. With the development of the STAMP project, it is likely that there will be an influx of new residents to the County that did not grow up in a farming community. Such outreach will help mitigate conflicts between agriculture and the public, and increase awareness of and sensitivity to agricultural needs. Page 51

61 Strategies: Education, Outreach and Advocacy Develop Collateral Material about Agricultural Issues The County should develop educational materials targeted to new residents and others not familiar about agriculture. They should encourage local municipalities to adopt Right to Farm regulations. A task force could be created to develop a packet of information to distribute to Realtors working in the County that explains what Right to Farm regulations mean, and why they are important. Specific outreach to the Genesee County EDC can help raise awareness on the part of businesses and employees locating at the STAMP facility. A mini farmers market at STAMP could help educate employees about agriculture, provide an outlet for local products, and build good will. An It s not vacant land campaign could educate non farm public about the importance of agricultural lands, including fallow lands. Often, land without structures is considered land to be developed. Emphasizing the importance of the soils, and the need to keep them protected from inappropriate development will help build support for agricultural protection. Public Relations Activities Genesee County conducts a number of programs aimed at maintaining good relations between farmers and the non farm public. These are valuable programs that should be encouraged and continued. These include: The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce Decision Maker s Tours and Forums; Kinderfarmin, a program that introduces young students to basic facts of food and agriculture; Farm Bureau tours for K 12 teachers to support incorporating agricultural issues and concerns into the K 12 curriculum; Programming in Schools There has been a cut back in agricultural related programming, such as Ag Tech, Future Farmers, etc., particularly at the High School level. Reinstating these types of programs will help make students more aware of the employment opportunities in agriculture, and help address the emerging employment gap, where it is difficult to find a workforce with needed skills to be successful. Emphasizing the increasingly high tech nature of farming, with exposure to skills such as precision agriculture, could make farming a more appealing career choice for students. An effort also needs to be made to educate children about careers in agriculture while their career paths are still malleable (primary and middle schools). Advocacy Page 52

62 The County can undertake a number of advocacy positions to encourage better incorporation of agricultural issues into decision making. In particular, it can encourage municipalities to include farmers in local leadership positions on Planning Boards and Zoning Boards of Appeals, so local projects are reviewed from the perspective of a member of the agricultural community. It can also encourage farmers to run for elected offices at the municipal and County level, to support advocacy on agricultural issues. The County should also support advocacy on behalf of careers in agriculturally related fields, emphasizing the importance and benefits of farming as a life career. POTENTIAL PROJECTS: PRIORITY PROJECTS Potential Future Projects: Agricultural Park Economic Development. GCEDC has had some success at attracting processors and other businesses to the County. The Genesee Valley Agri business Park in Batavia (Ag Park) is a 250 acre shovel ready site focused on agri business and food processing industries. Alpina Foods operates a yogurt manufacturing facility on the property, and the vacant former Muller Quaker Dairy building has been purchased by Dairy Farmers of America. The County should support the continued build out of the property, with a focus on agriculturally related businesses that create a market for agricultural products. GCEDC is also pursuing the Food and Technology Park in the Town of LeRoy. The LeRoy property is designed for a mix of food processing and technologyrelated businesses. This project was highlighted in the Town s application to the America s Best Communities program, and it remains a priority of the Town of LeRoy. The two parks appeal to different markets, as the LeRoy Food and Technology Park offers larger tracts of Page 53

63 contiguous acres needed for larger operations. Both facilities offer utilities and excellent access to the Thruway. 21 st Century Infrastructure The infrastructure needs for modern agriculture have changed in the first decades of this century. Not only are accessible roadways needed, but public water and high speed internet access are now a must in order to compete in a global market. In some situations, access to high quality electrical service is also needed. The County can take a leadership role in promoting access to the infrastructure needed by the agricultural sector. In terms of roadways, the County can develop sample road standards, ensuring sufficient lane widths, shoulder widths and clearances for bridges. Other standards include culverts and utility lines. Culverts not only need to be the right size for appropriate drainage, but also for farm equipment to traverse. Utility lines need to be hung and maintained with proper clearance for farm equipment to pass underneath. The County can also provide guidance to help municipalities implement water district projects in a sustainable manner. This approach promotes a consistency across the County, and helps local municipalities consider the range of issues associated with new water districts. For example, the County can provide sample language and policies to be included in water district legislation to ensure that they are protective of agricultural lands. Genesee County s Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board includes language in its NOI response that supports strong lateral restrictions above and beyond those required by New York State: The Towns are further advised that regardless of Agricultural District enrollment status, the County Smart Growth provisions apply to all new waterlines. New non agricultural water hookups outside of Smart Growth Development Areas are subject to County review per the water agreement between the Towns and the County. The Town building permitting process should be modified to forward applications to the County Planning Department for a Smart Growth determination prior to the issuance of a building permit by the Town. Another issue is a fair distribution of costs between agricultural and non agricultural users in developing rate structures. The County has a broader perspective, and experience with what has been successful in other communities, and can advise communities about best practices. Page 54

64 As mentioned in the preceding pages, the County can also take a lead working with the Towns and the School Districts providers to encourage the expansion of broadband service to unserved and underserved areas; these areas are often where farm operations are based. Lastly, the County can also provide guidance on best practices for renewable energy sources (wind, solar and bio digesters). Downtown Batavia Healthy Living Hub. This project re envisions a block in the heart of the City of Batavia to include a new YMCA facility integrated into Rochester Regional Health s Jerome Center medical campus. The area would be a healthy living campus and community gathering place where agriculture could be celebrated and promoted as part of a healthy lifestyle. The core of the project would be a proposed multi purpose health campus on a 10 acre site in downtown Batavia to house a new YMCA and medical offices for area health practitioners associated with the hospital. The project could be coordinated with the future Fresh Lab restaurant incubator for start up restaurants to experiment with sourcing local products, cooking specialty foods and offering farm to table options. It would also be near the proposed location for a year round covered farmers market to enhance access to fresh foods and provide a new outlet for farm products. The facility could include: Educational programs on healthy eating and other health related issues. Events, such as a walk to the market to encourage healthy, active living. Internships and training opportunities through BOCES and GCC. Page 55