Declare March Agriculture Month

Senate Resolution No. 3560 BY: Senator RITCHIE MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2018, as Agriculture Month in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2018, as Agriculture Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Agriculture Month; and WHEREAS, Agriculture continues to rank as the number one industry in New York State; and WHEREAS, The value added to New York's economy by agriculture accounts for more than $4.7 billion annually and plays an essential role in maintaining a strong economy; and WHEREAS, The agriculture industry is an integral segment of New York State's economy and a major employer of labor from all phases of agricultural production; and WHEREAS, Every day, farmers invest their time, energy and passion into producing wholesome and nutritious products; and WHEREAS, New York's farmers have historically been the stewards of the land, contributing to the State's diverse agricultural landscapes through responsible conservation practices and investments in technology; and WHEREAS, They also shape New York's food system and act as not only producers but also as nutrition educators, providing us with a safe, plentiful, affordable and nourishing food supply; and WHEREAS, New York's agricultural products have been shown to promote weight loss, and overall improved health; and WHEREAS, Commemorating Agriculture month will build awareness of the benefits of the agriculture industry in New York and encourage young people to consider agriculture as a career; and WHEREAS, New York Agriculture Month provides the opportunity for all New Yorkers to better appreciate agriculture's breadth and beauty, how food and fiber products are produced, and the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products, now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to acknowledge the contributions of the agriculture industry and New York's farmers, and to join with farmers and consumers all across the State to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2018, as Agriculture Month in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York.