Why Are Family Farms Important to the Catskills?
Economy - Farming keeps at least $60 million within the local Delaware County economy each year since farming depends on a network of support from local parts dealers, feed mills, veterinarians, accountants, trucking businesses, and other locally owned businesses.
Taxes - Farms and other land-based businesses pay more in taxes than they require in municipal services. Farms help subsidize the tax bill for all residents and second home owners.
Local Food Supply - Most of the food we purchase travels an average of 1,500 miles. Protecting local farms means protecting a local food system that can provide food using less energy. Best of all, local food tastes better and is better for you!
Environment - Agriculture is the preferred land-use for protecting our water, air, and soil. There are more than 700 family farms in Delaware County keeping our environment clean.
Landscape - When farms disappear, the landscape changes as brush and houses grow up in their place.
History/heritage/culture - Family farms are at the heart of our area's cultural heritage. Each farm is a business that involves and values families working together across generations. It is an integral part of what makes the Catskills a special place.
