During a recent session of the Erie County Legislature, Minority Leader John J. Mills and Legislator Joseph C. Lorigo (center) presented a proclamation in recognition of National Farmer’s Day (Oct. 12, 2012). Accepting the proclamation on Oct. 11, 2012 were, from left, Cornell Cooperative Extension Executive Director Deborah Roberts, Cornell Cooperative Extension Community Educator for Agriculture Sharon Bachman, and New York Farm Bureau representatives, Tim Bigham and Hans Mobius.

The proclamation recognizes the outstanding contributions of the men and women of the agricultural industry. In addition, the proclamation highlighted the importance of supporting farmers, ranchers, and growers as critical to creating and sustaining a thriving economy.

National Farmer’s Day celebrates the industry, noting that one-quarter of New York’s total land area is utilized as farmland, and that farming is a multibillion-dollar industry that supports thousands of jobs.  The Legislature recognizes National Farmer’s Day to honor the region’s agricultural heritage and express appreciation to our farmers for their remarkable contributions to our nation.