New York State's newest agriculture commissioner is Patrick Hooker. Mr. Hooker grew up in Nelson and was active in the Cazenovia Future Farmers of America (FFA). He has a 360-acre hay and horse farm - and maple syrup operation - in Richfield Springs.
With longtime state Assemblyman Bill Magee (also from Nelson) leading that body's agriculture committee, and Troy Waffner of Cazenovia heading to Albany to be deputy commissioner of Ag and Markets, it's apparent that the greater Cazenovia area is a wellspring of agriculture knowledge. Congratulations to everyone and I hope this ends up being reflected as Madison County adds agriculture as a major plank in its economic development strategy.
More information:
Official NYS Agriculture & Markets Site
NYS Assembly Agriculture Committee Page