Farms

“Agriculture’s role is unquestionable: access to food is a right; we need local agriculture now more than ever."

The study found the wine and grape industry in New York directly creates 71,950 jobs, generating $2.79 billion in wages and $6.65 billion in direct economic impact.

Pennsylvania’s Agriculture Secretary says several grant recipients were taken by surprise that they had to pay contracted workers prevailing wages.

“There were skeptics who didn’t think that Butter Gritty would ever come. But today is triumphant.”

Farm workers would be entitled to overtime pay, a guaranteed rest day each week, disability and Paid Family Leave coverage, unemployment benefits and the right to collective bargaining.

It's going to be open for our people to apply and try their hand at it. Whether that means they're putting it in the ground or they're growing it indoors, we'll definitely help facilitate that and we'll see where it goes,"

There are new guidelines from the federal government that could help hemp farmers in New York state expand their operations. WXXI’s Randy Gorbman explains:

“You have a beautiful crop on, especially August-September. And then, all of a sudden, you’d come back a week later, and it would be dead.”

A stowaway from China, the spotted lanternfly, is eating its way across Pennsylvania, killing trees and grapevines. Scientists are considering importing the bug's natural enemies from back home.

Farmers gain breathing room during tough financial times.