Local representatives recently visited Reality Dream Farm, Coco June and Wander Creek Farm as part of this year’s Ag Tour for Legislators. (Submitted photo)

CHENANGO COUNTY – Local representatives recently got a first-hand look at the struggles and successes of the farm industry during the Chenango County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board's 12th annual Ag Tour for Legislators.

The tour is held every summer in an effort to connect elected officials to local farmers. It's a chance to showcase Chenango County agriculture while farmers get to share their needs with local, state, and federal legislators who can offer support.

The first stop on the tour was Reality Dream Farm (RDF), located in the Town of Smithville. RDF consists of roughly 60 milking cows and 35 heifers. The farm is operated by a third-generation dairy farmer who sees the importance of keeping small, local dairy farms in the community. With a passion for farming and cattle, this farm strives to produce the highest quality milk possible while battling the everyday struggles of the modern-day dairy farmer.

Next, the tour visited Coco June, a yogurt manufacturer that made Greene their home in 2023. Coco June produces unique yogurt without using milk or dairy products, but coconuts instead – a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have other dietary restrictions.

Legislators and other officials toured the facility to understand how Coco June yogurt is made, and how the idea originated. For all those wondering: yes, non-dairy yogurt tastes good too!.

Lastly, the tour stopped at Wander Creek Farm in Greene. Wander Creek uses no-till methods to produce a wide variety of vegetables for taste and nutrition. They grow a diversity of crops for food and medicine without using pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Wander Creek deeply values feeling good about eating food right out of the field. The group had a great conversation with the farmers trying to understand what challenges smaller farms face and how our elected officials can help.

Nearly 30 legislators and other officials were in attendance, including Assemblyman Joe Angelino, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan, and a representative from NYS Ag and Markets. Also in attendance were four town supervisors, and representatives from various agricultural boards and organizations.

- Information from Chenango County Planning Department