CARMEL, NY - Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne recently met with newly elected Putnam County Agricultural Board Chairperson Nicole Scott at Tilly Foster Farm to discuss the future of agriculture in Putnam County and ongoing investments supporting the local farming community. Byrne was joined by fellow Board members, Commissioner Barbara Barsosa of the Department of Planning, Development & Transportation, and Director Patricia McLouglin of the Office of Real Property.

Scott was recently selected by her fellow Agricultural Board members to serve as Chairperson of the board. Byrne congratulated Scott on her new leadership role during the visit, which also included Stefanie Hubert, Executive Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County.

The group toured Cornell Cooperative Extension’s new barn facility currently under construction at Tilly Foster Farm, which will serve as the organization’s new home and expand its ability to support agricultural and educational programming throughout Putnam County.

 “Agriculture remains an important part of Putnam County’s identity and economy, and I’m excited to work alongside Nicole Scott and members of the Agricultural Board as we continue strengthening support for our local farmers,” said County Executive Byrne. “Cornell Cooperative Extension has long been an outstanding partner to Putnam County, and this new facility at Tilly Foster Farm represents another major investment in the future of agriculture, education, and community engagement.”

 During the meeting, Byrne, Scott, and Hubert also discussed the County’s recent investment in agricultural navigation services through Cornell Cooperative Extension. Byrne advocated for $25,000 in County funding to allow Cornell to enhance agricultural navigation throughout Putnam County, helping farmers better navigate state regulations, permitting requirements, grant opportunities, and other government-related processes. The concept first arose as part of the County Executive’s Future of Farming Roundtable discussion held early last year.

 “Farming today involves far more than working the land,” Byrne added. “Our farmers are often forced to navigate layers of bureaucracy and regulations that can be difficult and time-consuming. This funding will help ensure local farmers have more access to guidance and support so they can focus on what they do best.”

 Nicole Scott said she looks forward to continuing the Agricultural Board’s work to support and promote farming throughout Putnam County.

 “It’s an honor to be chosen by my fellow board members to serve as Chair,” said Scott. “Putnam County has an incredible community of farmers and agricultural advocates, and I look forward to working alongside County government, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and fellow community members to strengthen and protect agriculture here.” 

 Scott is the Director of Agriculture and Outreach at the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming, a non-profit organization serving hundreds of food and farming changemakers from New York’s Hudson Valley and beyond. 

Stefanie Hubert emphasized the importance of the partnership between Putnam County and Cornell Cooperative Extension.

 “We are grateful for the County’s continued support and investment in local agriculture,” said Hubert. “The new facility at Tilly Foster Farm and the agricultural navigation initiative will create meaningful opportunities to better serve our farming community for years to come.”

The Putnam County Agricultural Board advises County leadership on issues impacting agriculture and works to preserve and strengthen the County’s farming industry.