New York’s agricultural sector produced $3.3 billion in GDP

New York’s agriculture sector paid $970.2 million in wages and produced about $3.3 billion in gross domestic product in 2021, according to a report by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

Milk is the state’s most important agricultural product, ranked fifth nationally in sales by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and New York is among the top producers of other commodities, including apples, maple syrup, wine and grapes. According to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, there are more than 33,000 farms in New York City with nearly 23% of the total land area under agricultural use; about 9% of the state’s agricultural revenue comes from animal feed crops.

Additionally, the agriculture sector has weathered the Covid-19 pandemic better than other sectors, with only 1% job loss in 2020 compared to the statewide annual job loss of 8.7%.

“Agriculture supports jobs and communities all across New York,” DiNapoli said. “In addition to job and wage growth in the sector, local farms have contributed to the food security of their communities during the Covid pandemic, as disrupted supply chains have left shelves empty in many locations. Agriculture, especially the family farm, is vital to New York’s health and economy. Many of our farms face significant bottom line challenges, making it important for the state to ensure this sector continues to thrive.