In an effort to focus on agricultural issues of importance to Steuben and Yates county residents and keep an open dialogue with area farmers, Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R-C-I, Corning) is organizing an agriculture task force to advise him and actively pursue ideas which could have a positive impact on the industry.

“I’m talking to farmers and others associated with agriculture about their interest in participating on a task force where they would advise me about issues of concern to them,” Palmesano said, “Not only to identify and hopefully resolve problems they face, but also to think progressively about New York’s number one industry and their ideas to help drive the future of agriculture.”

Anyone working in agriculture and related fields who would like to be part of the task force should contact Palmesano, who tentatively plans to host a meeting in May. He said he’s approaching potential task force members from different agricultural sectors, including dairy, potato, beef, grape and grain growers, fruit and vegetable growers, in addition to organic and specialized farming operators.

Those interested in being part of the task force may contact the Assemblyman’s district office in Bath at 105 E. Steuben Street, call 607-776-9691, or email palmesanop@assembly.state.ny.us.