Mar 19, 2020

What New York state ag operations need to now about virus restrictions

“While New York state’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continue, it is more important now than ever that New Yorkers know that the state and our agricultural community are working together to keep agricultural products moving, our communities and families fed, and our animals cared for.

Here is the latest guidance:

• New York State has not restricted farms, grocery stores, retail food stores, food manufacturers, farmers’ markets, or farm stands from being open.
• Farms, grocery stores, retail food stores, food manufacturers, farmers’ markets, and farm stands are exempt from the state’s guidance for mass gatherings and workforce reductions. These businesses can continue to operate with their full workforce.
• There are no travel restrictions in place.
• Everyone should continue to practice social distancing and proper hand washing and sanitizing.

Additional information and resources are available below.

We thank the agricultural community for their commitment to maintaining the services that ensure all New Yorkers have access to the food they need.

– New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets