WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – North Country farmers are responding to New York state’s newly launched $30 million program aimed at helping them offset losses from federal tariffs.
As we reported earlier this week, the Agricultural Resiliency Against Tariffs Program makes farmers eligible for grants of up to $25,000.
Farmer: tariffs affect operation
Ron Robbins, owner of North Harbor Dairy, said the tariffs implemented by the Trump administration have driven up costs across his operation.
“It’s huge. Everything we touch is impacted by exports out of this country,” Robbins said.
Jefferson County Agricultural Coordinator Jay Matteson said the tariffs create uncertainty regardless of which direction prices move.
“It can drive prices up and it can drive prices down, both of which can be detrimental to the farm,” Matteson said.
Drop in a bucket
Matteson said that while $25,000 certainly doesn’t hurt, it’s like a drop in a bucket when it comes to losses from tariffs.
“The better outcome is, on the other end of all of this, there are better trade deals which provide better markets and better prices for our agricultural products,” Matteson said.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball said the program is a signal of the state’s commitment to its farming community.
“It’s obviously not going to solve all the challenges that agriculture has with trade and tariffs, etc. But it’s meant to be a signal that New York State is there for you,” Ball said.
How to apply
Farmers interested in applying can click here for more information and to apply.
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