New York Farm Bureau News Bytes – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode, we talk with Phillip Grant, CEO of the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx. Hunts Point is one of the largest produce distribution hubs in the world, feeding millions of people daily in New York City and the surrounding region.

Phillip discusses the inner workings of this massive market, including how produce comes from farmers across New York state, the U.S., and 49 other countries. He shares details about the market's $600 million redevelopment plan to expand capacity by 30% and make it easier for local farmers to get their products into the New York metro area.

The conversation highlights the importance of the relationship between the market and New York's agricultural community. Phillip emphasizes his efforts to strengthen ties with farmers and NY Farm Bureau as the revitalized Hunts Point aims to increase its share of locally-grown produce from the current 10% level.

In this week's episode we hear directly from New York farmers on why the Farm Bill matters. Judi Whittaker, Barb Hanselman, and David Fisher share how key programs in the legislation like crop insurance, conservation funding, and nutrition assistance support agriculture and food security across America.

Did you know that farm owners are legally responsible for providing workers' compensation insurance for all employees, even when using farm labor contractors? The Advocate for Business at the New York State Workers Compensation Board, Anthony Tomaselli, joins us to share insights on farm workplace safety and insurance requirements. Tomaselli addresses common issues like insurance coverage when using farm labor contractors and offers clear direction on legal obligations, filing timely injury claims, maintaining detailed records, and avoiding lapses in required coverage.He stresses the importance of actively engaging workers to identify and mitigate hazards and provides tips for implementing safety plans, shopping insurance rates, and more.

In this episode, we talk with American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall during his visit to Western New York. In this episode, President Duvall shares insights from his conversations with local farmers about their issues, including natural disasters, supply chain disruptions, and inflation. As a third-generation farmer, Duvall understands firsthand the challenges farmers are up against. Tune in to hear Duvall's perspective on agriculture today and what lies ahead as he continues to be a leading voice for American farmers and ranchers.

In this episode, we talk with Cristian Gilcess, a young agricultural enthusiast from Queens, New York. Despite growing up in an urban environment, Cristian developed a passion for agriculture through his high school's agricultural program and his involvement in the FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapter. We talk about Cristian's agricultural journey, his experiences as a state FFA officer, and his aspirations to pursue a career in agriculture policy. We touch upon the growing interest among young people in agriculture and the need to expand the understanding of agriculture beyond traditional farming. The episode highlights the exciting opportunities that exist in the agriculture industry and the enthusiasm of the next generation in shaping its future.

In today's episode we speak with dairy farmer and registered dietitian Abigail Copenhaver about the tasty benefits of dairy. Get ready for an insightful discussion on the benefits of chocolate milk, why lactose milk is often sweeter, and how dairy plays a crucial role in athletic recovery. Tune in and discover the secrets of this delicious and nutritious beverage during this special month dedicated to all things dairy.