State Senator Christopher J. Ryan (SD-50) today highlighted investments in Central New York farms through New York State’s Climate Resilient Farming (CRF) Grant Program, supporting projects that strengthen agricultural sustainability, improve water quality, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The $25 million statewide program will fund 133 projects across 23 counties. These investments—supported through the Environmental Protection Fund in the FY 2025-26 State Budget—are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 67,000 metric tons annually.

The Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District secured two awards to support local farms:

• $86,902 for an Adaptation and Resiliency Project: Funding will support the installation of a two-million-gallon farm pond for a diverse vegetable operation. The project will improve drought resilience, capture stormwater during heavy precipitation, and reduce reliance on trucked-in water for irrigation.
• $302,164 for a Healthy Soils NY Project: Funding will assist a dairy farm in expanding sustainable practices through enhanced manure injection equipment and increased cover cropping across hundreds of acres. The project will improve soil health, reduce emissions, strengthen nutrient recycling, and decrease runoff while boosting water retention.

“Our farmers are on the front lines of climate change, and these investments give them the tools to adapt, innovate, and lead,” said Senator Ryan. “From strengthening water supply during drought to improving soil health and reducing emissions, these projects are smart, practical solutions that support both our agricultural economy and our environment. I’m proud to see Onondaga County farms receiving this critical support and grateful to our local Soil and Water Conservation District for their leadership.”

The Climate Resilient Farming Grant Program supports projects across four categories: livestock management, adaptation and resiliency, healthy soils, and agricultural forestry. Each project is designed to reduce emissions while improving farm viability and long-term sustainability.

For more information on the statewide announcement, see the Governor’s release from April 1.