State Agriculture Department Announces Awards To Expand Youth Access to Local and County Fairs Across New York

Apr 16, 2026

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets today announced that 22 organizations have been awarded over $475,000 in funding through the 2026 Transportation for Youth to Local and County Fairs program. Launched in 2025, this budding program provides funding for transportation and related costs to bring youth groups to local and county fairs during the 2026 fair season. This initiative is an important part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment to strengthening New York’s county and local fairs, including cross-promotion with The Great New York State Fair, and improving youth and agricultural programming initiatives at all fairs statewide. These programs also complement the Governor’s efforts to encourage kids to Unplug and Play.

Commissioner Ball said, “New York’s county and local fairs are cornerstones of our communities and a vital link to the strength and diversity of our agricultural industry. They provide hands-on opportunities for young people to learn about farming, food systems, and the many career paths within agriculture, while also showcasing the hard work of our farmers and producers. We’re proud to continue and expand this transportation program in 2026, helping ensure that more young people from all backgrounds can experience their local fairs. By investing in these connections today, we are cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders and strengthening the future of New York agriculture for years to come.”

Transportation for Youth to Local and County Fairs Program

Following a successful pilot program in 2024 with Boonville Oneida County Fair, the State launched the Transportation for Youth to Local and County Fairs Program last year to help bring more visitors to county fairs statewide.

Source : ny.gov

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.