Access to Farmland
Connecting aspiring farmers with those transitioning out of farming, as well as with non-farming landowners, is more pressing than ever. The American Farmland Trust estimates that in the next 15 years, 40 percent of America’s agricultural land will change hands. Without better access to these lands for new farmers, we risk a future crisis in farming and food security. Fortunately, Sullivan County’s agricultural sector is well-equipped to tackle these challenges. Our farms not only provide fresh, healthy food but also boost the local economy by supporting restaurants, markets, and equipment suppliers. They help keep property taxes manageable since agricultural land often costs less to service than it generates in tax revenue. Plus, our farmlands enhance the county’s beautiful landscapes, open spaces, and wildlife habitats, enriching the quality of life for everyone who lives here and visits. Sullivan County’s efforts to improve access to agricultural land can serve as a model for how to integrate land, food, economy, and community well-being.
There are many valuable resources available to help navigate the complexities of agricultural land matters, from legal and financial guidance to sustainable practices. Whether you’re a farmer or landowner, these resources offer essential insights into legal frameworks, zoning regulations, and environmental compliance. Financial planning tools can help with budgeting for land acquisition and managing ongoing expenses. Our Regional Navigator service is always available to help connect farmers with available land and landowners with seeking farmers. This service provides crucial support for farmers in their land access process as well as connecting them to events and additional up to date resources. By utilizing our resources, folks can make informed decisions, reduce risks, and support the long-term success and resilience of their farming endeavors.
Accessing land:
Resources for connecting farmers with available farmland and guidelines for financial and readiness planning.
https://findingfarmland.youngfarmers.org/calculator
Farmland for a New Generation New York - American Farmland Trust
https://smallfarmcourses.com/p/plan-your-farm-hub
*** All-course-resources.pdf (youngfarmers.org)
Legal & Financial Resources:
Resources that provide essential legal and financial guidance.
https://nyfarmtransition.org/find-services
Farm Commons - Support and resources for legal resilience.
HOME - Farmland Access Legal Toolkit
Applications and Forms | Natural Resources Conservation Service (usda.gov)
Comprehensive resources:
Comprehensive resources on a variety of topics including access to capital, marketing, land access and ag business development
Land Access Resources - American Farmland Trust
https://smallfarms.cornell.edu/recursos/?lang=es
For those looking to lease:
Resources for those interested in finding available leases and for land owners looking to lease their own land.
Leasing - Farmland Access Legal Toolkit
Leasing Land Resource List - FIC (farmlandinfo.org)
Contact
Haley Collins
Ag Program Coordinator
hc2246@cornell.edu
845-292-6180 ext. 131
Last updated March 7, 2025