Agriculture

Agriculture has been and continues to be one of Dutchess County's primary industries. Our economy, rural landscape, environment, health, and community character are all positively affected by farms operating here. Our farms provide many benefits to the local community, including:

• Fresh food and food security;
• Jobs on the farm, through value-added processing and sales, and other agricultural infrastructures;
• Support to other local businesses through the sale and purchase of goods and services; and
• Agri-tourism.

Although agriculture has changed through time, it continues to evolve and diversify, and plays a significant role in both the economy and quality of life for Dutchess County residents.