By Blake Jackson
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball recently spotlighted major investments aimed at enhancing county and local fairs across the state.
As part of the 2025 Budget, a total of $2 million has been allocated to promote these fairs, increase attendance, and highlight New York’s agricultural heritage.
A new initiative launched this year, the Transportation for Youth Local and County Fairs Program, is set to award over $300,000 to 15 organizations.
This funding will help transport youth groups to fairs throughout the 2025 season, expanding access to these traditional community events and hands-on agricultural learning experiences.
An additional $500,000 is being directed to local fair promotion efforts, while another $1 million will fuel a statewide marketing campaign encouraging residents to visit their local fairs.
These actions align with Governor Kathy Hochul’s broader effort to revitalize fairs and promote her “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative.
“Our county and local fairs are the backbones of communities across the state and represent an incredible avenue to connect people to the rich past, present, and future of New York agriculture," Commissioner Ball said.
"I’m excited to continue our support of county fairs, including a unique new program that helps bring more young people to experience the tradition of their local fair. I’m looking forward to seeing the impact that these programs have during the 2025 season.”
The announcement was made at the Ulster County Fairgrounds, where Commissioner Ball was joined by the New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs, Ulster County Fair officials, local leaders, regional Welcome Centers, Cornell Cooperative Extensions, and 4-H students. The event underscored the importance of cross-promoting fairs and strengthening youth agricultural education.
Among the awarded organizations are Cooperative Extensions and agricultural societies across regions including the Capital Region, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, New York City, and Western New York.
Ulster County Agricultural Society, one of the recipients, is collaborating with local Boys and Girls Clubs and Cornell Cooperative Extension to provide both transportation and agricultural education at the fair.
A complete list of recipients and project details is available at agriculture.ny.gov.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: New York, Business