By Bonnie Bargstedt, NEAFA Vice President
We are just days away from the election. Please go vote! Like Charlie said last month, we have many seats that can change the landscape of both the State and Congressional Houses. Many of those will have leadership implications on key committees that influence Agriculture, particularly the Chair of the NYS Assembly Agriculture Committee with the retirement of Assemblymember Donna Lupardo.
On November 20 we will meet with Hinman & Straub to begin a plan for the coming year. We will need to reach out to incumbents to solidify the NEAFA goals and priorities. The big task is introducing ourselves to newly elected representatives and educating them about NEAFA - who we are, what we do and how our mission benefits every constituent, regardless of party affiliation.
I would encourage each of you to know where your representative fits into this puzzle. Please make time to join us for our Lobby Day in Albany scheduled for Wednesday, February 10, 2027. Setting appointments is always easier when a constituent is in the group – especially with these new leaders. We never have enough NEAFA members to meet with those we should see.
Favorable weather has helped farmers finally finish corn silage across most of the region. Many are reporting strong yields with starch and digestibility looking good. With weather permitting, attention now turns to completing soybean and grain corn harvest.
As the pressure to finish harvest continues, please prioritize safety. I’d like to remind you to stay safe. Grab that cup of coffee, let a truck go ahead so you can pull over and grab a quick nap, double check safety protocols. Be mindful of all the big equipment on the roads, in surrounding fields, at the farm bunks and feed mills. If you’re a visitor make sure you are visible – the drivers likely aren’t expecting you.
Last week over 500 dairy nutritionists, consultants, and industry professionals from around the world gathered for the 88th Annual Cornell Nutrition Conference. Participants gained insight into the latest research and developments in animal nutrition, leaving with actionable practices to help their farmer clients feed the world. The conference has been coordinated and presented by the Cornell Animal Science Department since 1938.
Leading researchers and industry experts shared recent advances in dairy cattle, nutrition, health and sustainability. This year’s sessions examined dairy nutrition, rumen health, microbiome science, feeding and management practices and emerging technologies that are reshaping dairy production. From microbiome-focused discoveries to hands-on management approaches, CNC 2026 highlighted solutions to support cow health, farm productivity, and long-term industry sustainability. The funding that NEAFA advocates for is what funds this research.
One more time - PLEASE VOTE – Yours counts. Early voting is now open.