Assemblyman Marc W. Butler (R,C,I-Newport) helped launch a viral video campaign promoting agriculture and a pro-family farm agenda. Agriculture is the largest sector of the state’s economy and represents $5.2 billion in economic activity, but the assemblyman says it doesn’t get the attention it deserves, and he hopes this video will attract grassroots support throughout the state.
“I think sometimes people have the wrong perception about agriculture, that it’s stuck in the past and can’t adequately sustain people as a livelihood; but that misconception couldn’t be further from the truth,” said Butler. “In fact, even some of the smallest family farms are employing cutting-edge technology and best farming practices. It’s really an exciting industry that I want to share with the larger public. Getting more and more New Yorkers to support family farms will help us push a pro-agriculture agenda that will benefit the entire state.”
Butler’s district has seen a renewal in the dairy industry through the Greek yogurt boom. His district was among the first to receive a Greek yogurt plant when Fagé opened up shop in Fulton County. Operations have increased the demand for dairy production and have created additional jobs off the farm as well.
Some of Butler’s immediate priorities are to ensure family farmers can earn and retain large profits for all their hard work. He hopes that, with added grassroots support, he and his colleagues will be able to push for policies that will lower costs related to property taxes and energy. “A thriving agricultural community positively impacts our entire state, and I’m pleased to promote our family farms in this way,” added Butler.