Over 1300 farms generated over $250 million in revenue in 2022
Ag leaders discuss key challenges and state of farming in Steuben County
From Steuben County,
Steuben County brought together around 30 stakeholders Wednesday morning for a Small Business Agriculture Roundtable at the Civil Defense Building in Bath. The session ran from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and included local farmers, county leaders, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE), the Industrial Development Agency (IDA), Steuben County Soil & Water, Farm Bureau representatives, and other partners.
The discussion focused on the current state of agriculture in Steuben County, key challenges facing farmers, and opportunities for growth and support.
Key Takeaways
Shift Toward Beef Production
Farmers noted a continued shift from dairy to beef operations, driven largely by stronger profitability in the beef market compared to dairy.
Critical Challenges Facing Local Agriculture
Financing & Rising Costs
Access to capital remains a major hurdle, particularly for small farms. Rising living expenses and operational costs are making it increasingly difficult to sustain and grow agricultural businesses.
Energy & Infrastructure Constraints
Electric capacity and infrastructure limitations are becoming a barrier to expansion. Farmers expressed concern about powering modern equipment and facilities, along with rising costs for electricity and diesel fuel.
Workforce & Labor Shortages
Labor remains one of the most pressing issues:
- Fewer young people are pursuing farm work
- Difficulty filling roles requiring specialized skills, including equipment operation and CDL drivers
- Retention challenges, particularly for positions requiring long hours
- Limited alignment between agricultural education programs and hands-on farming needs
- Declining participation in programs like FFA, currently offered in only three schools in the county
Farmers emphasized the need for stronger pipelines through BOCES, schools, and colleges, including internship opportunities tied to academic credit.
Climate Impacts & Weather Volatility
Participants reported noticeable seasonal shifts, with spring and fall arriving nearly a month later than a decade ago. Increased severe weather events—including multiple “100-year storms” in recent years—have forced farms to invest heavily in drainage and infrastructure improvements.
Market Pressures & Input Costs
- Fertilizer availability is highly competitive
- Feed access has become more difficult, with significantly fewer local feed mills remaining in Steuben County
- Concerns around marketing and labeling, particularly organic vs. non-organic practices, and consumer perception
County-Level Focus & Support
There was strong consensus on the importance of continued support from:
- Steuben County Soil & Water
- Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE)
Grant funding was identified as a critical tool in helping farms adapt, modernize, and remain viable.
Agricultural Snapshot: Steuben County (2022 Census)
- Total Farms: 1,373 (↓ 11% since 2017)
- Land in Farms: 362,171 acres (↓ 9%)
- Total Market Value of Products Sold: $251.7 million (↑ 28%)
- Total Production Expenses: $183.5 million (↑ 24%)
- Net Cash Farm Income: $81.4 million (↑ 35%)
Sales Breakdown:
- Livestock & animal products: 66%
- Crops: 34%
Despite a decline in the number of farms and total farmland, overall production value and income have increased, signaling consolidation and efficiency gains across the industry.
Closing Perspective
The roundtable reinforced both the strength and resilience of Steuben County agriculture, while also highlighting the urgent need to address workforce development, infrastructure capacity, and financial accessibility.
County leaders and partner agencies will continue working collaboratively with the agricultural community to identify solutions and ensure the long-term sustainability of one of Steuben County’s most vital industries.
THIS SATURDAY MAY 2 in WOODHULL NY
