ALBANY — Empire State Development (ESD) announced the expansion of Fulmer Valley Farms (FVF) in Allegany County. FVF provides sustainable/responsibly cultivated produce to retail and food service industries in the region. In order to encourage Fulmer Valley Farms to expand, Empire State Development has offered up to $100,000 in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits. The total project cost is approximately $1.19 million and will result in the creation of 11 new jobs.
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, “Our investments in promising farms and businesses bring new jobs to the area, support hardworking farmers and help strengthen the economy—all while meeting the demand for fresh, locally grown food.”
“With support from New York State, Fulmer Valley Farms will be able to expand, create jobs, and invest in more environmentally friendly production methods,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. “New York’s agricultural economy is a significant driver of our overall economic growth across the state and has been an important part of our focus on upstate revitalization. The expansion of Fulmer Valley Farms will increase the availability of fresh local produce in rural communities, marking a significant step forward for the people of Allegany County.”
Fulmer Valley Farms grows micro greens, leafy greens and herbs for customers throughout the region and plans to expand into other specialty vegetable crops as the farm grows its team. FVF’s Controlled Environmental Agriculture, CEA, allows for the production of produce 12 months a year which vastly reduces food miles and produces a better tasting and more nutritious product. The farm will be adding five controlled environment greenhouses, a hub and packing facility, in addition to its 1366 Trappings Brook Road location in Andover. FVF’s expansion will require the hiring of an operations manager, technicians, IT specialist, packaging and harvesting positions.
Donna Burns, Partner Fulmer Valley Farms said, ” It is exciting to grow these crops close to where people are eating them, providing a fresher product to the Allegany County community. We thank New York State for assisting us in bringing new jobs, partnerships, commodities and innovation to an area that is steeped in American agricultural tradition. This support will allow us to remain competitive as we continue to increase employment increase employment in our rural communities.”
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, ““This expansion project is a win-win, helping to improve the farm’s production capacity while bringing more fresh, locally-grown food to consumers and safeguarding the environment. The creation of nearly a dozen new on-farm jobs will help boost the agricultural community.”
Senator Catharine M. Young said, “Many of the most exciting innovations in agriculture are happening right here in New York State. A shining example is the Fulmer Valley Farms project which, with the investment announced today, is poised to expand its operations to meet the growing demand for quality, locally-grown produce while adding jobs and stimulating the local economy. I applaud this smart state investment which will further Fulmer Valley Farms vision for growth as well as the agricultural economy of Allegany County. This is a win for everyone involved.”
For more about Fulmer Valley Farms, click here or visit pickdgreens.com.
–Empire State Development
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