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Gaines town supervisor disappointed with decision about Watt’s turbine

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 December 2015 at 12:00 am

GAINES – Town Supervisor Carol Culhane said the town’s focus for pushing to have a 154-foot-high turbine moved at Watt Farms has been to protect the public.

The Gaines Zoning Board of Appeals voted on Dec. 4, 2013 that the turbine should be relocated farther away from a farm market, storage building and U-pick area of the farm on Route 98.

“The Zoning Board of Appeals exercised good judgment abiding by our zoning laws/ordinances for public safety,” Culhane said this afternoon. “No one said Chris Watt couldn’t have a turbine but we said he could not have it where it could fall on people.”

The issue was fought in court and on Friday a State Supreme Court judge ruled in favor of Chris and Karen Watt, saying the turbine can stay put.

Judge James Punch has previously sided with the town, but he said in his decision on Friday that a “Determination and Order” from the State Department of Agriculture and Markets prompted him to reopen the matter. When he decided in favor of the Gaines ZBA in December 2014, Punch said Ag and Markets hadn’t yet issued its determination and order.

That agency, led by Commissioner Richard Ball, said forcing the Watts to relocate the turbine was unduly burdensome and would cost the farm $20,000.

Ag and Markets in that order said the town didn’t use the proper setback distance.

Gaines determined the setback distance by multiplying the 154-foot turbine by 1.1 for a 169.4-foot setback minimum. Gaines officials said the turbine needed to be moved at least 169.4 feet away from the farm market, train ride course and designated U-pick areas.

Ag and Markets suggested the setback from “human-occupied buildings” be five times the rotor distance or five times 23.6 feet, which would be 118 feet for the Watt turbine. Ag and Markets based that suggestion from the recommendation by New York State Energy Research and Development Authority or NYSERDA.

NYSERDA uses that setback for buildings that are occupied a majority of the time and not occasionally, such as in Watt’s situation. The train route at Watt’s and the U-pick area are temporarily visited by the public and insisting on a setback there “unreasonably restricts the farm operation,” Ball said in his letter last January.

Culhane isn’t sure if this is the last action in the case, if the town has another option in challenging the ruling from Judge Punch.

“I am disappointed that Judge Punch reversed himself and agreed with Ag and Markets that public safety is not important in consideration of land use and applying our zoning ordinances,” Culhane said. “Judge Punch got it right twice before he got it wrong.”

Judge rules Watt turbine can stay

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 December 2015 at 12:00 am

File photo by Tom Rivers – An acting Supreme Court justice has issued a ruling that the 154-foot-high wind turbine at Watt Farms on Route 98 doesn’t have to be moved from a farm market and storage building. The issue has been in litigation with Gaines town officials demanding the turbine be relocated.

GAINES – A 154-foot-high wind turbine that has been the focus of lawsuits doesn’t have to be relocated, a State Supreme Court judge ruled on Friday.

The Town of Gaines Zoning Board of Appeals on Dec. 4, 2013, said the turbine would have to be moved away from a farm market and U-pick orchard at Watt Farms.

James Punch, acting Supreme Court justice in Orleans County, upheld the Gaines ZBA last December. However, the decision and the Gaines position was challenged by the state Department of Agriculture and Markets.

Ag and Markets said forcing the Watts to move the turbine, at a cost of $20,000, would unreasonable and unnecessary, according to a letter on Jan. 14, 2015 from Richard A. Ball, commissioner of Ag and Markets.

He sent the letter to town officials, telling them they needed to comply with the Agriculture and Markets Law.

Punch, in a decision on Friday, said his decision a year ago was made without the Determination and Order from Ag and Markets. The state agency had sent advisory letters on the issue before Punch’s decision in December 2014, but the Determination and Order followed.

Ag and Markets said Gaines, with its insistence the turbine be moved, “unreasonably restricts the farm operation.” Punch sides with Watts in his latest decision and tells Gaines it must comply with the order from Ag and Markets, dated Jan. 13, 2015.

Ag and Markets in that order said the town didn’t use the proper setback distance. Gaines determined the setback distance by multiplying the 154-foot turbine by 1.1 for a 169.4-foot setback minimum.

Gaines officials said the turbine needed to be moved at least 169.4 feet away from the farm market, train ride course and designated U-pick areas.

Ag and Markets suggested the setback from “human-occupied buildings” be five times the rotor distance or five times 23.6 feet, which would be 118 feet for the Watt turbine. Ag and Markets based that suggestion from the recommendation by New York State Energy Research and Development Authority or NYSERDA.

NYSERDA uses that setback for buildings that are occupied a majority of the time and not occasionally, such as in Watt’s situation. The train route at Watt’s and the U-pick area are temporarily visited by the public and insisting on a setback there “unreasonably restricts the farm operation,” Ball said in his letter.

NY ag revenue sees big increase

Posted 14 December 2015 at 12:00 am

File photo by Tom Rivers – Walter Zelazny & Sons farm in Medina was out harvesting corn on Nov. 14, 2014 in this field at the corner of Route 63 and Fletcher Chapel Road.

Press Release
Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Office

ALBANY – Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the growth of agricultural sales in New York outpaced the national average, with cash receipts up 36 percent across the state, more than the 32 percent gain nationally.

In 2014, farmers in New York State also set a new record for sales with $6.36 billion in cash receipts, up from $4.7 billion in 2010, representing a nearly $1.7 billion increase in gross income from sales of crops, livestock, and other products.

“New York State is home to thriving agricultural businesses known for their high-quality products and award-winning tastes,” Governor Cuomo said. “This administration’s continued commitment to cutting through the red tape, lowering costs and investing in this vital industry is paying dividends today. I congratulate all of New York’s farmers on another banner year.”

Since taking office, Cuomo has made the state’s agricultural economy a top priority, supporting agricultural research, promoting locally grown and produced foods, helping to market the booming craft beverage industry, and connecting our farmers and agri-businesses to new markets through farmers’ markets, Taste NY stores and increased procurement opportunities.

As a result, New York has seen a surge in average gross income and a significant increase in sales of many of the state’s top commodities.

Since 2010, the following commodities have shown the greatest increases:

Poultry and eggs up 63 percent to $206 million;
Peaches up 80 percent to $12.6 million;
Honey production up 59 percent to just under $9 million;
Cattle production up 132 percent to $415 million; and
Hay up 173 percent to $147 million.

The New York dairy industry also saw record high dairy prices in 2014, constituting approximately half of the state’s agricultural receipts.

The Governor’s Taste NY initiative continues to expand since its launch in 2013, helping to link our local producers and growers to consumers around the world through events, culinary tours and several Taste NY stores. This year, the state opened four Taste NY stores, including the first store outside New York State in Puerto Rico.

There are now 11 Taste NY stores along our highways and in our transportation hubs, enabling travelers to buy New York State’s homegrown and homemade products. The Taste NY Market at Todd Hill recently exceeded $1 million in sales.

The state also held three Taste NY Culinary Tours in 2015 that brought together more than 100 restaurateurs, many from downstate, to the Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley and Long Island regions to experience the quality and diversity of agricultural products specific to the region and encourage local sourcing.

Cuomo has pushed to help agricultural producers and growers tap into the New York City marketplace, and connect with schools. The recently announced Farm to School program will assist Pre-K-12 schools procure and serve healthy, locally grown foods on school menus, bolstering the demand for agricultural products.

In addition, partnerships across the state and in particular, downstate, are helping the industry bring its goods and products to the state’s growing number of farmers’ markets.

New York is also leading the growth of the rapidly expanding farm-based beverage industry. The overhaul of legislative and regulatory policies, coupled with substantial improvements to the state’s business climate, have stimulated record growth in craft producers, while increasing demand of agricultural producers.

Since 2011, the industry overall has grown 154 percent. New York now has more than more than 800 beer, wine, spirits, and cider businesses, contributing over $27 billion to New York’s economy annually.

“With the Governor’s commitment to growing the agricultural economy and New York State farmers’ increased innovation and resiliency, New York State has a winning combination,” said New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. “There’s no doubt the agricultural economy is stronger now than ever. With record sales and a significant growth trend in sales of many key commodities, New York continues to be a leader in agriculture.”

According to a study conducted by Cornell Professor Todd Schmit, New York’s agricultural sector has a strong multiplier effect on the state’s economy. For every dollar spent in agricultural output, an additional $.43 is generated for non-agricultural industries. In addition, every new job created within agriculture leads to the creation of .80 non-agricultural jobs.

“The growth of agricultural sales demonstrates that farming in this state is an extremely important industry to New York’s rural economy,” said Dean Norton, New York Farm Bureau president. “It could not have been possible without the hard work and commitment demonstrated on farms in every region to produce quality products that consumers want. The growth also demonstrates what is possible when the State improves the business climate for family farms and invests in industry promotion.”

FFA delivers 30,000 pounds of food to Community Action

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 December 2015 at 12:00 am

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – FFA students in Albion delivered more than 30,000 pounds of food to Community Action this morning. The top photo shows Vivian Rivers, FFA president, handing a box of food to Emilie Barleben.

The FFA has been organizing, collecting and delivering the food to Community Action since 2010. The 30,656 pounds delivered today set a new record for the FFA, topping the 27,000 pounds from last year.

Jared Hollinger, an FFA member, hands a heavy box of produce to Adam Krenning, FFA advisor and Albion agriculture teacher. Kelsee Soule, FFA vice president, is also on the truck.

Students boxed up the produce on Thursday and Friday, and then stacked it on the tractor trailer this morning.

Emilie Barleben and Natalie DiCureia work together carrying a big box of squash.

Garrett Derisley and Katie Mann carry boxes of squash to a second trailer full of food.

The FFA members gathered for a quick photo after loading the tractor trailer. They hold a sign saying “Thank You” to the farms and businesses that donated for the food drive.

There were 22 farms and businesses that donated to the effort, including Call Farms, Costanzo Bakery, Barry Flansburg, Kast Farms, Kirby Farms, Kludt Brothers, Kreher’s Egg Farm, L. Brooke Farms, Müller Yogurt, Nesbitt Fruit Farm, Orchard Dale Fruit Farm, Orleans County Farm Bureau, Panek Farms, Partyka Farms, Pawlak’s Save-A-Lot, Rich Products, Dale Root, Root Brothers, Starowitz Farms, Torrey Farms, Triple G Farms, and CY Farms.

Angela English, a member of the Lord’s House in Waterport, carries a sack of cabbages for the food pantry at the church.

Ten food pantries and three food kitchens received food this morning.

When the trucks pulled up with the food, many of the food pantry volunteers clapped. Annette Finch has worked 38 years at Community Action. She started crying when she thanked the FFA kids for their work on the food drive. FFA students started calling farms about two months ago, trying to line up donations.

“This is a real tribute to young people and we don’t hear enough about the good that young people do,” Finch said.

Russ Peters, pastor of the Alabama Full Gospel Church, carries a bag of potatoes for the church’s food pantry.

Andy Ebbs is the maintenance supervisor for Community Action. He said the FFA food drive is a big help in stocking the food pantry shelves. He also said the Boy Scout food drive is important for Community Action.

Ebbs marvelled about all of the produce, which will be used through the winter.

“It’s simply amazing, especially seeing these girls throw their backs into carrying heavy bags of cabbage,” Ebbs said. “This is a real life-saver for us.”

FFA member Ellen Narburgh carries a sack full of cabbage.

When the Albion FFA first organized a food drive for Community Action during the holidays in 2010, the student organization was able to secure 3,000 pounds in donations. That jumped to 9,000 pounds in 2011, 17,000 the following year and 19,000 in December 2013. Last year it was 27,000 pounds. The FFA set a goal for 30,000 this year and surpassed that mark.

Extension honors long-time volunteers and supporters

By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 2 December 2015 at 12:00 am

Photos by Kristina Gabalski – Sharon Smith (left), principal of the Kendall Elementary School, receives a “Friend of 4-H” award from Jennifer Wagester, executive director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Orleans County during the organization’s annual meeting on Tuesday evening. Smith was recognized for the school’s support in hosting 4-H clubs.

KNOWLESVILLE – Local officials, Cornell Cooperative Extension staff, 4-H Leaders, volunteers and friends gathered Tuesday evening for the Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension annual meeting at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds.

Jennifer Wagester, executive director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Orleans County, reported on 2015 highlights, which included an increase in programming for nutrition with participation in the federal Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program and the addition of a nutrition educator to the staff. The Master Food Preserver program was also revived and a three-day training held during the fall.

Wagester reported the most significant increase in program enrollment was in 4-H with the addition of 84 new members, a record growth of 24 percent. She noted the 4-H program is on its way to meeting the 2016 enrollment goal of 500 youth.

The highest facility update was in the Trolley Building kitchen made possible by grant funds, the Fern Blackburn Memorial, Fair Committee, the Leaders’ Association and a concession stand hosted by staff. A fire suppression hood was installed and the range refurbished. Additionally, a three-bay sink was installed along with a commercial refrigerator.

“These positive changes occurred because our volunteers, staff, community members, and county legislators worked together to make a difference in the lives of Orleans County residents,” Wagester said.

Long-time Lake Ontario Fruit Program Team Leader Debbie Breth receives recognition in honor of her upcoming retirement from special guest, Dr. Chris Watkins, Cornell Cooperative Extension director.

Neil Johnson, right,receives the Legacy Award from Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension Board of Directors President Ed Neal while Board Vice President Erin Anheier looks on.

Anheier said the Legacy Award is special as it is not given annually. She noted Johnson has served Extension and 4-H over the last 40 years in “as many capacities as possible.” She said the History of the Orleans County 4-H Fair, written by Johnson, was his most lasting and profound contribution over those years. The history provides, “Valuable insight into the past…. which would have been lost,” without Johnson’s efforts, Anheier said.

“I love 4-H,” Johnson said in accepting the award. “I couldn’t think of a better organization to give my time to.”

Stephen Kruger (left), architect, and his dad, Warren Kruger, Kendall Highway Superintendent, were honored along with Oak Orchard Concrete with Friend of Extension Awards.

All three worked with the Extension in 2015 donating time, expertise and materials to help make much needed structural repairs to the Curtis Pavilion on the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds. Board of Directors member Vincent Flow of Holley made the presentation and noted the Pavilion, which was constructed decades ago, was beginning to tilt to the northeast.

Nineteen posts supporting the Pavilion were reinforced, and Flow said Oak Orchard Concrete was always very prompt with deliveries, even though they were needed sporadically throughout the project.

Through the efforts of the Krugers and Oak Orchard Concrete, Extension was able “to minimize the cost without sacrificing the quality of the job,” Flow said.

Other special awards went to Shelly Daggs, Outstanding 4-H Leader; and Sara’s Garden Center (Kathy Kepler), Friend of the Master Gardeners.

Editorial: Giving thanks for local farmers and their workers

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 25 November 2015 at 12:00 am

Photos by Tom Rivers – Bob Brown, center left, and his brother Eric Brown are pictured with some of their workers from Jamaica. Bob’s son Bobby is in back behind Eric. The Brown family has run Orchard Dale Fruit Farm in Carlton since 1804. This photo was taken in the fall 2011 for article about farm labor for the American Agriculturist magazine.

Tomorrow’s Thanksgiving, and many people will enjoy turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, stuffing, salad, apple pie and more. If you like food, it will a glorious day.

None of it would be possible without the hard work of farmers and their workers. For some farms it’s a daily year-long effort. In fact, on Thanksgiving, farmers will still be milking cows, feeding them and cleaning barns. They may even deliver a calf.

The fruit farms also are a year-long commitment. After the apples are harvested in October-November, there is lots of work in the warehouse over the winter. The trees also need to trimmed, and that job often will get done standing in the snow during the dead of winter.

In the spring the trees start blooming and farmers need to protect the buds and emerging apples until harvest season.

Ken Nice of Knowlesville checks his fruit trees in bloom in May 2014. The fruit trees, with their colorful blossoms, are a stunning sight in the spring.

The vegetable farmers need to plan during the off-season. They need to order their seeds, line up workers for the next year, and determine which crops and which varieties will be grown in different fields. They want to stagger the harvest and not have everything be ready at once. (You can’t harvest it all at the same time.)

Agriculture is a difficult industry with wild swings in prices, an unforgiving Mother Nature and so much uncertainty with the labor force. It’s capital intensive and increasingly technical. You have to keep up with the times, and be willing to invest – or else you may not stay in business.

Orleans Hub is grateful to be an in agricultural community. We are one of the most diverse farming counties with fruit, vegetable, dairy, and grain farms of all sizes. We have organic farms and Amish and Mennonite families also working the soil.

The Elba Muck stretches into Barre and Clarendon in Orleans County, as well as Elba and Byron in Genesee County. Immigrants started clearing a swamp to create the muck in 1915. The muck, now in its 100th year, remains some of the area’s most valuable and productive farmland. This photo was taken last month.

Agriculture is big business around here. The 2012 Agricultural Census counted $150.3 million in farm revenue in Orleans County, which ranks 13th out of the 62 counties. Wyoming County is the top county at $318.5 million. Our neighbor, Genesee County, is fourth at $237.0 million.

The farms have been critical to other economic development projects in the community. H.H. Dobbins did a big $5 million expansion in Lyndonville this year, adding a 26,240-square-foot controlled atmosphere storage building.

Intergrow has expanded several times since opening a hydroponic greenhouse in Gaines about a decade ago. Western New York Energy spent $90 million building an ethanol plant in 2006-’07 and the company just spent $2 million on a new 800,000-bushel grain bin.

Lake Ontario Fruit opened a new controlled-atmosphere storage site last year in Gaines on Ridge Road. The company has made other upgrades to its packing lines.

Workers at Lake Ontario Fruit fill bags and boxes with SweeTango apples in this photo from September 2014. Lake Ontario Fruit packs all the SweeTangos in New York that are grown west of Rochester.

Pride Pak is building a new $15 million fruit and vegetable processing facility in Medina. It wouldn’t be here without the local farms nearby.

Two new yogurt plants have also recently opened in Batavia and they wouldn’t be here without so many dairies in the region supplying milk.

Many of the farms have upgraded grain storage facilities, equipment, housing for workers and also have donated to community projects, including the new library in Albion, the new residence at Hospice, and the Education Center at the Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Agriculture, dating back to the pioneers in the early 1800s, have brought many hard-working families to the community.

The muck gave a chance for many Italian and Polish immigrants to own land and build a life in Orleans and Genesee counties.

The farms continue to draw immigrants, and many of them, such as the Rosario family, have opened businesses in the community. The Rosarios own the Monte Alban grocery store and the Mariachi de Oro Mexican Grill in Medina.

On Thursday, when giving thanks, don’t forget the farmers and their many contributions to the community.

Medina teacher wins new pedal tractor for best Instagram photo

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 24 November 2015 at 12:00 am

Photo by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Todd Eick, Medina’s agriculture teacher and FFA advisor, sits on a new pedal tractor he won from Case International in a contest of best Instagram photos using a key chain with a tiny tractor.

Eick is pictured with students, from left: Raymond Beneway, Mitchell Wienke, Alden Cayea and David Ayhart. They are in the ag production class taught by Eick.

Eick led a group of Medina students to the FFA National Convention in Lousiville last month. Case International gave away key chains with tractors and encouraged people to take photos of the key chains and post to Case International Instagram account.

Eick used coffee grounds to create a scene where it looks like the tractor is plowing a field. The photo won first place in the national contest.

The pedal tractor arrived on Nov. 11 and Eick and some of his students assembled it. He will decorate the new tractor in lights and ride it in Saturday’s Parade of Lights in Medina beginning at 6 p.m.

Work starts soon on Helena’s new site in Ridgeway

Posted 18 November 2015 at 12:00 am

Press Release, Orleans EDA

RIDGEWAY – When the Orleans Economic Development Agency began working with the Ridgeway Town Board to attract more business to the rural Western New York community in 2009, the group began looking for parcels to rezone that would also give potential new customers rail access.

One of the first was on Allis Road, off Route 31. The Town Board’s foresight then prompted executives of Helena Chemical Company to pursue a much-need expansion project for their growing WNY distribution center.

“Prior to 2009, we didn’t really have any industrial sites in town,” points out Ridgeway Town Supervisor Brian Napoli. “After meeting with our EDA, we found a few suitable pieces of land, including the one on Allis Road, and decided to be proactive to ensure available land in Ridgeway would be ready for future prospects.”

The relocation of Helena Chemical Company, from Albion to Ridgeway, is one the community hopes will pay off. An estimated $4 million project, Helena plans to build a 75,000 square-foot, six-building complex as a distribution point for chemicals, seeds and other agricultural products. The Ridgeway site gives the company rail access and the ability to develop a more expansive infrastructure.

“The move to Ridgeway will allow us to offer more products and services,” said Mitch Wilber, Helena branch manager. “The quality of the agriculture is what brought us here; there are good farmers growing good crops.”

Headquartered just outside of Memphis, Tennessee, with 450 branch locations across the United States, Wilber notes the “strong inter-municipal support” the company received from the Orleans County EDA and Ridgeway officials as the stimulus to expand Helena Chemical’s footprint in New York State.

The contracts are signed and Allied Builders is scheduled to begin work at the site this week.

“Good development opportunities do not just happen here,” said Jim Whipple, EDA chief executive officer. “Development opportunities come about as the result of years of strategic planning and anticipating how we can make the most of our available land and resources. The need may not be apparent right away, but we are ready and waiting when it is.”

Positioning the Allis Road site, and other land throughout the county, is what the Orleans EDA does every day, “There was no specific project when we began working with Ridgeway to rezone the Allis Road property,” notes OEDA VP Gabrielle Barone. “What we believed then, and continue to reinforce to our communities, is that we need sites ready and waiting when the right project does come along.”

Citing the value the OEDA and local municipalities place on retention projects, Barone explains, “The Town of Ridgeway demonstrated they wanted more development and became full partners in keeping Helena Chemical in Orleans County and bringing the project to fruition.”

NY Farm Bureau says $15 minimum wage would raise costs by $500 million in state

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 November 2015 at 12:00 am

File photo by Tom Rivers – Jim Kirby runs a planter on Zig-Zag Road in Gaines in May during corn planting season.

If New York raises the minimum wage to $15, farmers in the state would see their operating costs increase by $500 million, and that would likely put many farmers out of business, New York Farm Bureau said.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo wants to bring the minimum wage from $8.75 to $15 an hour in a phased-in approach.

Farmers are in New York already face higher operating costs than competitors in other states, said Dean Norton, NYFB president.

“No other state in the nation comes close to having a $15 minimum wage,” Norton said in November issue of Grassroots, Farm Bureau’s monthly publication. “In fact, our main farm competitor states, like Michigan, Pennsylvania and Florida will have minimum wages about 30 percent lower than New York’s.”

The American Farm Bureau Federation did an economic analysis of the $15 minimum wage in New York. A 300-acre vegetable farm in central New York would see its costs rise by $600,000 annually. A large dairy farm in the North Country would pay out about $1 million more a year while a smaller dairy in Schoharie County would pay $200,000 more, Farm Bureau said.

The organization said many farms already are at slim profit margins. Some farms, due to price swings in the dairy cycle, are making little or no money.

“This proposal is extremely disappointing and dangerous to the farm business owners that struggle to run financially viable businesses in upstate and rural New York,” said Jeff Williams, director of public policy for NY Farm Bureau.

Norton said most farmers already pay more than the minimum. The current average wage on a farm in New York is $12.15 an hour, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Upping the minimum wage would lift all farm wages,” Norton said. “A worker who already earns a higher hourly rate based on experience and time on the farm would still expect a higher salary than those who are newly hired.”

A $15 minimum wage would force farmers to pay even more than that to keep skilled and experienced workers, Norton said.

If the governor’s proposal goes through, Norton said more farms will turn to automation to reduce labor costs, and consumers can expect to pay more for produce and food.

“The wage hike will also be a bigger barrier for smaller farms who are interested in hiring new employees to grow their businesses,” Norton said. “This will ultimately be bad news for the rural economy that depends on agriculture as its bread and butter.”

4-H’ers test cooking skills with food grown in NY

By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 8 November 2015 at 12:00 am

Photos by Kristina Gabalski – Ariel Vinca chose to feature corn in her corn loaf recipe which was topped with fresh raspberries during a competition Saturday at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds.

KNOWLESVILLE – Participants in this year’s Grown in New York contest, sponsored by the Orleans County 4-H Leader’s Association, had the opportunity to demonstrate cooking, baking and menu planning skills during the annual event held Saturday at the Trolley Building on the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds.

The contest featured items grown or produced in New York State and demonstrators and those in attendance enjoyed samplings of the recipes prepared.

4-Hers from around Orleans County competed in Jr. Novice, Junior, Senior and Sr. Novice (based on age) divisions and were judged on their demonstration skills as well as the taste and nutritional value of the finished product.

Recipes featured fruits, meats, vegetables, grains and dairy products, and could be baked, cooked or prepared to eat raw, such as a salad. Evaluators observed demonstrators to look for techniques, organization and ability to prepare their recipe.

Additional evaluators tasted a finished product prepared at home to look for eye appeal, taste and to review the nutrition statement of the product.

Orleans County 4-Her Lauren Becht is evaluated as she prepares Mexican chicken and rice during the annual Grown in New York Competition Saturday at the Trolley Building. Demonstrators have about 30 minutes to prepare their entry during the silent food demonstration.

Participant Lauren Becht, 16, of Albion prepared Mexican chicken and rice featuring chicken she raised herself. She said she has been competing in Grown in New York for, “as long as I can remember. It’s a little nerve-wracking.”

She said she enjoys the competition. Lauren typically prepares a dessert item but wanted to try a savory main dish this year.

Orleans County 4-H member Saleya Williams prepares a Rustic Pear Tart featuring New York State pears.

Lilly Mathes, competing in the Junior Division, prepares her own homemade applesauce.

Apples were a featured ingredient in an apple salad prepared by Zac Albright.

Emma Mathes is evaluated as she begins to prepare carmel apple cheesecake.

Here are the yummy results of Emma’s efforts.

Local state legislators among NY Farm Bureau ‘friends’

Staff Reports Posted 7 November 2015 at 12:00 am

Photo by Tom Rivers – An apple orchard on Route 98, just south of Route 104 in Albion, is pictured on Friday.

ALBANY – New York Farm Bureau has announced its annual list of state legislators who have been supportive of legislation that helps agriculture and who also worked against bills that would hurt the industry.

State Assembly Steve Hawley, R-Batavia, and State Assemblywoman Jane Corwin, R-Clarence, were both named to the annual Farm Bureau “Circle of Friends.” Hawley and Corwin both represent districts that include portions of Orleans County.

There are 150 members of the State Assembly, and 112 were named “friends” by Farm Bureau for 2015.

State Sen. Robert Ortt, R-North Tonawanda, represents all of Orleans County in the Senate. He was named to the “Circle of Friends” in his first year as a state legislator.

The list of Farm Bureau friends in the State Senate includes 46 of the 63 state senators.

“The selected lawmakers from both the Assembly and Senate were chosen for their commitment to the hard-working farm families in New York,” said Dean Norton, NYFB president. “Each friend has demonstrated that they understand the importance of agriculture to the people of their legislative district, and how farming significantly impacts the economy of this great state.”

The “Circle of Friends” is not an endorsement from Farm Bureau, and this distinction only recognizes the 2015 legislative session.

Farmers’ market completes successful first year in downtown Medina

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 1 November 2015 at 12:00 am

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – A new farmers’ market that started on July 11 proved a popular spot, with 14 different vendors spending time at the site, the parking lot across the Post Office in Medina.

The Orleans Renaissance Group managed the market this year, and moved it from the Canal Basin to a more visible spot in the downtown hub.

Dennis Stymus of Stymus Farms in Barre (pictured above) said the change in location was much more visible. He said he more than doubled his business at the market this year.

“In the Canal Basin it was kind of hidden,” he said.

The Canal Village Farmers’ Market also changed from a Thursday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Many of the market days included music and cooking or art demonstrations.

Gail Miller, left, served as coordinator of the market on a volunteer basis. She is pictured with Chris Busch, chairman of the Orleans Renaissance Group.

In the summer, there were often 450 to 500 people at the market. Gail’s husband Dave Miller kept track of visitors, and he said the weekly average was 366 since July 11.

“It’s been a great group effort,” said Mrs. Miller, who dressed as an Angry Bird character on Saturday, which was Halloween.

Next year the market will start in June, and Miller said there will be more entertainment and demonstrations.

Other vendors were urged to dress up, and Dawn Keppler from SK Herefords in Shelby wore a witch’s outfit. She is pictured with her daughter Alana. The market gave SK a chance to introduce many people to the beef raised in the Town of Shelby.

Jesus Molina, left, and Bob Renko are pictured at Renko’s Meat Processing. With the farmers’ market season coming to a close, Renko said he will soon be busy with deer processing.

NY makes $1 million available for new farmers

Posted 27 October 2015 at 12:00 am

Press Release, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Office

ALBANY – Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced $1 million in funding is available to assist new farmers begin their careers.

Now in its second year, the New York State New Farmers Grant Fund will build upon a successful 2015 when more than $610,000 was awarded to 19 farms across the state in order to support the continued growth of New York’s agricultural industry.

“Farming remains an important industry in New York and an essential part of this state’s economy,” Governor Cuomo said. “By creating new opportunities for early-stage farmers to expand and diversify agricultural production across the state, we are bolstering the growth in this sector and helping to ensure its vitality for years to come.”

The $1 million New Farmers Grant Fund will provide grants of up to 50 percent of total project costs. Funds may provide a minimum of $15,000 and maximum of $50,000 for up to 50 percent of project costs with the remaining 50 percent being matched by the recipient.

Eligible project costs include the purchase of farm machinery, supplies and equipment, and construction or improvement of farm buildings. Empire State Development, in consultation with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, will administer the fund which is open to New York farmers in the first 10 years of having a farm operation of 150 acres or less.

The application and guidelines for the New York State New Farmers Grant Fund are available online and the deadline for submission is January 22, 2016. Visit regionalcouncils.ny.gov for both the application and guidelines.

“Beginning farmers are as an important resource to the future of New York agriculture as land and water,” said New York Farm Bureau President Dean Norton. “The grant fund and loan forgiveness program will kick start necessary investments that may be needed on growing farms and in turn support the agricultural economy statewide.”

Additionally, the New York State Young Farmers Loan Forgiveness Incentive Program, which encourages new college graduates to pursue farming careers in New York State, is now accepting applications for 2016.

The Incentive Program, available through New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, provides loan forgiveness awards to individuals who obtain an undergraduate degree from an approved New York State college or university and agree to operate a farm in New York State, on a full-time basis, for five years. In its first year, funding was provided for up to 10 awards and all 10 awards were given to eligible farmers.

The application for the New York State Young Farmers Loan Forgiveness Program is available online and the deadline for submission is Dec. 1, 2015. Click here for the application.

State Assemblyman Steve Hawley, a former hog farmer and Genesee County Farm Bureau president, released this statement about the NY “New Farmers” program:

“As the owner of our family-owned farm for many years, I know firsthand how difficult life in the agriculture industry can be,” Hawley said. “Profits from produce and livestock sales fluctuate and the possibility of drought and flooding is always real. I can imagine the trepidation many young men and women feel as they begin their career in farming and agriculture, and this funding is a tremendous opportunity for aspiring farmers to get on their feet. Up to $50,000 in matching grant funds are available for everything from tractor and plow purchases to construction of barns and silos. I am proud of the work we have done to bolster the agriculture industry in New York State and I pledge my continued support going forward.”

Volunteers team to restore pavilion at fairgrounds

Posted 23 October 2015 at 12:00 am

Provided photos – Warren Kruger (operating backhoe) works with Jim Blackburn (left) and Jim’s father Gary Blackburn in upgrading the pavilion at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds.

Press Release, Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension

KNOWLESVILLE – For many, the Curtis Pavilion along the creek at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds includes memories of friends, family, and smells of chicken dinners cooked over an open flame during the annual county fair.

The Thursday evening fair tradition is a homecoming event for many, and fairgrounds Property Committee members, Gary Blackburn and Vince Flow III and the father-son team of Warren and Stephen Kruger, have worked throughout the year to preserve the pavilion that was built in 1973 for future generations.

They received support from Oak Orchard Concrete of Medina, which donated the concrete to stabilize the poles. The Town of Kendall also provided use of a backhoe to the fairgrounds for excavating the soil surrounding the poles.

The team coordinated their schedule to ensure they did not interrupt events at the fairgrounds and would meet in the late afternoon and work through the evening hours.

Work on the main structure is nearing completion and there are plans to continue with stage improvements next year. Warren, Stephen, and Oak Orchard Concrete will be presented with the Friend of Extension award at Extension’s annual meeting on Dec. 1 in recognition of their efforts.

Weather has been nice for apple harvest

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 20 October 2015 at 12:00 am

Not quite a bumper crop in 2015

Photos by Tom Rivers – This photo shows an apple in an orchard on East State Street near the Butts Road intersection in Albion.

Local apple growers say the weather for the harvest season has been ideal for picking and packing the fruit.

New York is the country’s second-leading apple growing state, behind only Washington State. In a big year, NY will harvest 30 million bushels or boxes of apples. This year, the crop is expected at 26 to 27 million bushels. A frost over Memorial Day weekend damaged some of the buds and blossoms, taking a chunk out of this year’s crop.

“We are the second-largest apple growing state in the nation, so apple fans don’t have to look any further for great apples,” said Jim Allen, president of the NY Apple Association. “They will be glad they did, because closer means fresher, more flavorful apples.”

This photo shows a bin of apples at Excelsior Farms in Point Breeze.

Orleans County is NY’s second biggest apple producing county, behind Wayne County.