FARMING IN THE FINGER LAKES: Embrace the diversity of agriculture

Nov 15, 2023

(Editor’s Note: In 2017 and ‘18 we ran a monthly column on our Monday Farm Page called “Farming in the Finger Lakes.” Thanks to the effort and initiative of Eileen Jensen, that feature is returning. Eileen’s columns focusing on the local agricultural scene will run the first Monday of every month).

The time is here when the holidays are creeping up quickly and family gatherings become more abundant. We are fortunate to live in a region surrounded by farmers and an abundant food supply. As consumers of food, we have the pleasure of walking into local grocery stores to fill our bags with whatever food item we’re craving. It’s something that most of us don’t think twice about as food is the centerpiece for our tables.

Living in the Finger Lakes region allows all of us to have access to a diverse array of food. Let’s take a closer look at the diversity in a four-county radius including Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates counties.

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Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.