NYFB Climate Action Council Statement

New York Farm Bureau released a statement in response to the plan approved today by the New York State Climate Action Council to meet zero emission goals set forth in legislation.

The following may be attributed to NYFB President David Fisher:

 "New York Farm Bureau is reviewing the Climate Action Council's plan to meet lofty goals for zero emissions in the state. At first glance, the report recognizes important strides New York's farmers and foresters have made to reduce emissions, increase efficiencies, and sequester carbon. We have long believed that agriculture is part of the solution to mitigate climate change.  An incentive-based approach for farms that invests in research, new technologies, and education will be key for farmer adoption and the plan's success.  

However, major concerns remain including the push for electric, zero-emission agricultural vehicles when the technology does not exist for such equipment. The future commercial viability of the equipment must also be affordable and accessible for the state's farmers. There must also be a power grid in every region of the state that can handle the electrical demand that the Climate Action Council is seeking today. New York Farm Bureau also supports renewable natural gas and biofuels as part of any climate smart plan.

New York Farm Bureau will examine the full impact this will have on agriculture and will continue to work with New York State to address some significant challenges in the plan to do what is best for our environment and food system.”