Agriculture contributes five billion dollars to New York State’s economy annually and organic production is increasing rapidly. In the past ten years, the number of certified organic farms in New York State has grown from 225 to 820. Like the rest of the country, many small farms in New York are transitioning to organic production to serve niche markets and remain competitive.

Cornell University and Cornell Cooperative Extension provide research, leadership, and outreach education to farmers who want to transition from conventional agricultural methods to organic production, one of fastest growing agricultural sectors in the country.