Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner (D-Round Lake), The New York Beef Council (NYBC) and the New York Beef Producers Association officially launched “May as Beef Month in New York State” with the passing of a bipartisan resolution in the Assembly and Senate, a press conference and a celebration at the New York State Capitol. The annual event recognized New York’s beef producers and highlighted beef’s essential role in the state’s agricultural economy, food system, and culinary heritage.

“New York grass-fed beef is an important part of our agricultural economy,” said Woerner. “The economic impact, both in terms of direct revenue and indirect supply chain activity, creates jobs, keeps land in production, and protects the rural character of our upstate communities. This annual event raises awareness of the beef industry in New York and highlights the expanding market opportunities in the industry and the challenges, in terms of processing capacity and access to land, that need to be addressed to ensure that New York’s ranchers and farmers can realize those opportunities.”

Featuring beef producers, industry representatives, and state leaders, legislators gathered in recognition of the important connection between producers, restaurants, schools and consumers in meeting the state and country’s increasing demand. With nearly 10,000 beef operations in the state and $396M in annual revenue, beef is one of New York’s top agricultural products.

Speakers, including New York State Agriculture Commissioner, Richard A. Ball, the Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Senator Michelle Hinchey, the Ranking Member of the Assembly Committee on Agriculture, Assemblyman Chris Tague and the leading member of the New York Beef Producers Association, Erin Perkins, emphasized the dedication of farm families and the ongoing efforts to produce safe, nutritious, and high-quality beef while caring for land across generations.

During the press conference, NYBC Director, Ashley Scoones, announced Ben’s Fresh, a popular restaurant in Port Jervis, New York, as the winner of the 2026 Best NY Burger Contest. Event attendees enjoyed free samples of the award-winning burger and other beef dishes that showcased the versatility, flavor, and quality of beef. The reception provided an engaging atmosphere for producers to share their stories and to foster meaningful conversations about issues affecting agriculture in New York State.