THE REPORTER: Delaware County Agriculture Moves Forward With New Grants and Marketing Efforts

Delaware County is investing in its agricultural future — rolling out new grants, funding opportunities, and marketing initiatives aimed at supporting both new and established farmers.According to county officials, the effort is part of a broader push to strengthen the local farm economy, as agriculture continues to evolve beyond its traditional roots.In a conversation with Radio Catskill, The Reporter editor Lillian Browne said the momentum is being driven in part by renewed energy within the county’s Department of Economic Development.“There’s been a resurgence of really positive energy,” Browne said, pointing to new staff — including agricultural specialist Lindsay Whitbeck — who are helping connect farmers with funding opportunities.Whitbeck, a farmer herself, is working directly with producers to navigate a growing list of grants and low-interest loan programs. Those opportunities are available to a wide range of agricultural operations — from crop growers to livestock and dairy producers. The support is not limited to established farms. Browne said a key focus is helping new and beginning farmers enter the industry.“Folks who want to go into agriculture but need a little help… can apply for these grants,” she said, noting that trainings and one-on-one guidance are available to help applicants build strong proposals. Those trainings include assistance with business planning — a critical step in securing funding — as well as connecting farmers with the right programs for their specific operations.Among the opportunities highlighted is the “value-added producer grant,” which helps farmers expand their businesses. For example, a farm raising cattle could use funding to process and sell beef directly to consumers.While each grant has its own timeline and requirements, farmers can find updated information through the county’s economic development website or by contacting staff directly.The investment comes at a time when agriculture in the region is shifting.Delaware County, once heavily rooted in dairy farming, has seen that sector decline over the years. Rising costs, labor challenges, and federal pricing pressures have made it harder for traditional dairy operations to survive.In response, many farms are diversifying.“One of the things that’s been very successful here is agritourism,” Browne said. That includes experiences like farm stays and “glamping,” where visitors can spend time on working farms — blending tourism with agriculture and creating new revenue streams for farmers.Local agencies — including the Watershed Agricultural Council, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and the county’s economic development office — are also working together to support the industry’s transition and long-term sustainability.Together, these efforts reflect a broader strategy: not just preserving agriculture in Delaware County, but reshaping it for the future.