Chenango County is seeking feedback to updated the area's Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan. The annual Chenango County Dairy Day was held on Saturday June 19, the milk truck above displays a sign during the parade that reads, “This truck holds 67,000 pounds of milk = 7,600 gallons of milk =134,000 glasses of milk.” (Photo by Tyler Murphy)

CHENANGO – The Chenango County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board (AFPB) is asking for public input on an updated Chenango County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan.

The AFPB, with support from the Chenango County Planning Department, has been working to update the plan since Fall 2019.

“This plan will guide the development and policy of agriculture and farming in Chenango County for the next five to ten years, so it is important to get as much public feedback as we can to formulate a well-rounded and accurate plan. We have an idea of where farming will be in the future, but we want additional feedback from residents to make sure they agree,” said Chenango County Director of Planning Shane Butler,.

In July 2020, a survey was sent to over 500 landowners asking questions on a variety of agriculture, farm, and development related topics. Utilizing survey responses, additional research, knowledge by those on the board, and data from the USDA Ag Census, the plan was updated with current information, trends, new markets and more.

The draft plan can be accessed on the county website: www.co.chenango.ny.us/planning/agriculture/.

The public is asked to read the plan and send comments by mail to Chenango County Department of Planning and Development, 5 Court Street, Norwich, NY 13815 or by email to planning@co.chenango.ny.us.

Comments will be accepted until 5 p.m., July 15.

Once comments are incorporated, the plan will be reviewed by the AFPB one more time before sending it on to the Chenango County Ag, Buildings and Grounds Committee, and the Chenango County Board of Supervisors for adoption.

- From Chenango County Planning Department