For More Information Contact:
Colleen Pillus, Communications Director (845) 486-2000
Poughkeepsie, NY… Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro has announced the County has launched the Agricultural Resources Inventory Application (ARIA), a searchable, online tool that includes descriptions and contact information for a variety of local, state and federal agricultural agencies, as well as local food hubs and distributors. Organized by desired topic, this application aids farmers, producers, residents, visitors and municipal officials in navigating and utilizing these agricultural resources throughout Dutchess County.
County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “Dutchess County is fortunate to be the home of countless agricultural resources – assets that build on our rich farming heritage and continue to make agribusiness a vibrant component of our local economy. Whether you’re looking for information about farming and open space advocates, partners that promote local agriculture, funding, environmental issues or even a farmers’ market near you, the Agricultural Resources Inventory Application is an invaluable tool with a wealth of information to explore.”
Dutchess County’s agricultural diversity has been hailed as one of its most unique qualities – from traditional livestock farming and fruit/vegetable operations, to local distilleries and newer farming ventures, such as u-pick farms and community-supported agriculture – all types of farms are present and thriving in Dutchess County. Just as Dutchess County’s agriculture is diverse, the resources available to the agricultural industry are equally diverse.
Produced in conjunction with the County’s Office of Central and Information Services, the ARIA provides searchable information about more than two dozen topics related to local agriculture. Visitors to the site can also filter the more than 65 resources by name, and the tool will provide a brief description, contact information and website link to each.
The protection of open space, farmland and watersheds are among the topics County Executive Molinaro will discuss during his 2020 State of the County address on Thursday, February 20th at 5:30 p.m. at the Culinary Institute of America’s Marriott Pavilion, located at 1946 Campus Drive in Hyde Park. Residents can RSVP for the State of the County address at www.dutchessny.gov/rsvp or by calling (845) 486-2000.
