Summary of Podcast Episode #2: Interview with Commissioner Richard Ball
New York Farm Bureau News Bytes
Host: Amanda Powers, Director of Communications at New York Farm Bureau
Guest: Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets, Richard Ball
Release Date: June 18, 2025
Introduction
In the second episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes, Amanda Powers engages in an insightful conversation with Commissioner Richard Ball. The discussion centers around the New York budget's impact on agriculture, strategies for business growth amidst challenges, youth involvement in farming, and initiatives to ensure healthy and accessible food for all New Yorkers.
Budget and Department Strength
Richard Ball begins by addressing the robust state budget allocated to the Department of Agriculture:
“We have a good budget for the Department of Agriculture. It's very strong... this year's aid to localities budget is about $60 million in total programming. So it's been beefed up over the years.” ([00:56])
Ball highlights an increase from $7.9 million in previous years to a significantly larger budget, emphasizing the department's growth and enhanced capacity. This financial strengthening has allowed the department to recover from the workforce reductions experienced during the COVID-19 era, now boasting approximately 100 more employees than before.
“We have one of the best budgets we've had. It's strong. It allows us to do the things that we need to do.” ([01:10])
Staffing and Post-Pandemic Recovery
The conversation shifts to the challenges faced in hiring post-pandemic. Commissioner Ball acknowledges the difficulties in attracting qualified personnel but celebrates the department's return to full staffing levels.
“Private industry saw it. State government certainly saw the same challenges with finding people that wanted to be a part of it and were qualified.” ([02:58])
This restoration of staff has bolstered efforts in food safety and collaboration with various commodity groups, positioning the department effectively against national counterparts experiencing cutbacks.
Planting Season and Weather Impacts
As planting season commences, Ball discusses the weather's role in agricultural productivity:
“We're looking for a clear, clear weather forecast... despite some flooding and dramatic rainfall in regions like the Schoharie Valley, planting is going full speed ahead.” ([03:30])
He reassures listeners that most crops are recovering well from adverse weather conditions, with significant acreage dedicated to corn, soybeans, and vegetables, ensuring a promising planting season.
Communication with Federal and State Agencies
Commissioner Ball delves into the department's interactions with federal bodies like the USDA and FDA, noting the transitions and staffing changes impacting these relationships:
“The transition going on there has made things different... some of the programming people down in the divisions have left.” ([04:31])
Despite these challenges, Ball emphasizes the strength of relationships within the state government, particularly with the Department of Environment and Health.
“I don't think we've ever had a better relationship with other cabinet members... we have some very active CEOs of ag organizations working together.” ([07:10])
This internal cohesion contrasts with the uncertainties at the federal level, underscoring New York's stable position amidst broader governmental shifts.
Adapting to Agricultural Changes
Addressing the pressures to evolve in agriculture, Ball underscores the importance of scientific data in guiding changes:
“We've got to make sure we use scientific data to evaluate the proposed changes... that's going to be pretty big potentially.” ([08:05])
He acknowledges the industry's concerns regarding new regulations on pesticide use, vaccinations, and cultural farming practices, advocating for data-driven decisions to navigate these transformations.
Strategies for Business Growth
In navigating challenging environments, Ball highlights the significance of strong relationships and collective efforts:
“Nasdaq, our organization, the leadership we have in Washington, we're nonpartisan... have become a trusted source in Washington for honest and accurate information about what's going on in the states.” ([09:41])
He points to active collaboration among state departments and federal counterparts as pivotal in fostering a supportive environment for agricultural businesses to thrive.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
Commissioner Ball emphasizes agriculture's integral role in sustainability and environmental management:
“We better have a food system in New York State that's responsive and resilient... Nourish New York has been added to this year's budget with another $5 million.” ([11:20])
The Nourish New York program facilitates connections between upstate farmers and downstate consumers, enhancing local food systems' resilience and promoting environmental stewardship. Additionally, Ball highlights the state's growing processing capacity as a critical factor in sustaining agricultural growth.
Accessibility Initiatives: Nourish New York and the 30% Initiative
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on ensuring food accessibility through state-led initiatives. The 30% Initiative in schools aims to source 30% of school lunch ingredients from New York farms, incentivizing schools with increased funding:
“We have some schools that are at 70% without using dairy, which is just phenomenal.” ([16:46])
Ball recounts the inception of the farm-to-school program, driven by the need to combat childhood obesity and improve nutrition. This initiative not only enhances the quality of school meals but also fosters awareness and appreciation of local agriculture among young students.
“We estimate that'll add about a little over $400 million worth of purchasing from New York farms by the state.” ([16:46])
The success of the program is evident as initial goals surpassed expectations, showcasing the state's commitment to integrating local agriculture into public institutions.
Branding and Market Expansion: New York Grown and Certified
Commissioner Ball discusses the development of the "New York Grown and Certified" brand, which encapsulates the department's commitment to quality, safety, and environmental stewardship:
“Our brand for New York agricultural products is New York Grown and Certified. It really answers a question a consumer has... you can know it's produced in an environmentally correct manner.” ([21:40])
This branding effort not only aids in marketing local products but also assures consumers of the products' integrity, fostering trust and supporting local farmers' access to broader markets.
Trade and Tariff Concerns
Addressing the uncertainties surrounding international trade and tariffs, Ball articulates the challenges they pose to farmers:
“Tariffs are scary for farmers... they raise your input costs and affect what you can sell your product for.” ([24:32])
He elaborates on the importance of maintaining strong trade relationships, particularly with Canada and Mexico, New York's primary trade partners. Through forums like the Trinational Accord, the department works collaboratively to navigate trade issues and mitigate the adverse impacts of tariffs.
“We're still in a negotiating phase... State departments of Ag are very active in that space.” ([24:32])
Ball remains optimistic about the opportunities for New York growers in emerging markets, contingent on successful negotiations and sustained international relationships.
Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers
The decline in the number of farms and the average farm size is a pressing concern. Commissioner Ball outlines initiatives aimed at encouraging new farmers and sustaining agricultural heritage:
“We have a beginner farmer work group... the number of younger people who didn't come from a farm with an interest in the food system is pretty dramatic.” ([29:58])
Highlighting the role of organizations like the FFA, Ball emphasizes the importance of education and engagement in cultivating future agricultural leaders.
“We saw 104 new FFA chapters this year... connecting agriculture with young people who will pursue careers in agriculture is exciting and encouraging.” ([33:44])
These efforts are designed to plant the seeds for lasting agricultural engagement among youth, ensuring the sector's future vitality.
The Dairy Industry's Impact
Dairy remains a cornerstone of New York's agricultural landscape. The commissioning of new facilities like Chobani in Rome signifies substantial growth and job creation:
“Dairy's clearly the biggest part of our ag community, but it's only a positive... Chobani is looking at 1,000 employees in Rome.” ([35:26])
Ball underscores the technological advancements in dairy farming, enhancing productivity and efficiency. These developments not only bolster the dairy sector but also stimulate related industries such as manufacturing and logistics.
“Robotic rotary parlors... cows exceeding 100 pounds per day in production, 200 bushel corn is like normal anymore.” ([39:28])
The integration of advanced technology ensures that New York remains competitive and capable of meeting increasing production demands.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Commissioner Ball expressing optimism for New York's agricultural future. He reflects on the strides made in sustainability, food accessibility, and technological advancement, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges of trade and workforce development.
“We really are in a good place. Hang on to your seat.” ([41:09])
Amanda Powers thanks Ball for his contributions and underscores the importance of strong relationships and collaborative efforts in supporting New York's agricultural community.
Final Thoughts
This episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of New York's agriculture sector. Commissioner Richard Ball's insights highlight the importance of strategic budgeting, strong inter-agency relationships, innovative programs like Nourish New York, and the vital role of nurturing the next generation of farmers. As New York continues to navigate economic and environmental challenges, the collaborative efforts and forward-thinking initiatives discussed in this episode position the state's agriculture for sustained growth and resilience.