CHENANGO COUNTY — The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, with the New York Farm Viability Institute (NYFVI), announced $1.7 million now available through the second round of the Beginning Farmer Grant Program.

New York farmers with 10 years or less of farm operation experience who will be engaging in operating a farm within the state can find support through this program with funding to address farming needs, expenses, operational costs, and other essential investments.

"The beginning Farmer Grant program is a critical program that provides the necessary capital that new and beginning farmers need to get started and to be successful in the agricultural industry," said State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball.

Ball said he was proud of the program as it will help in accessing additional resources and support farmers in purchasing new equipment which will broaden farmers operations and businesses.

"I thank the New York Farm Viability Institute for their partnership in this program and look forward to successful applications," he said.

Chenango County Farm Bureau President and Owner of Austin Farm Enterprises, LLC., Jeff Austin, Jr. said, “I believe this funding program is set up to help the small farmers that have once again become a growing industry in our state, customers have spoken and are pushing to know where their food comes from and this will help support that.”