Agriculture is an important economic driving force in Niagara County. I take pride in the relationships I have built over the years with members of the agricultural community. I work tirelessly to advocate on behalf of the farmers in my district who rely on agriculture for all or part of their income. I have introduced several pieces of legislation on behalf of the diverse agricultural community which exists in the 138th Assembly district. Recently, I introduced legislation that would establish a vineyard loan program which seeks to provide loans for qualified individuals seeking to create their own vineyard. Wineries in Niagara County have become an important economic contributor. In 2002 I authored legislation which created the Niagara Wine Trail which began with just two wineries and has now grown to include ten thriving wineries. The Wine Trail gives visitors from around the world the unique opportunity to tour and taste some of the finest wines New York State has to offer. The Wine Trail represents a thriving and expanding agro-tourism economy here in Niagara County.