Summer 2021

Stewards of the Land: Environmentally Preferable Practices of Northeast Producers 

The last decade has been the warmest on record, with 2020 being the second warmest year ever reported. Across the nation, we are experiencing more frequent, intense weather patterns, from powerful rain and windstorms to severe droughts and extended heat waves. These dramatic shifts have brought climate change and environmental protection to the forefront.

Here in the Northeast, many states have adopted goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with the majority aiming for 80-85% reduction by 2050. Agriculture is critical in obtaining these goals as it generates about 10% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and can play a key role in mitigating them. Many operations across the region are already on the road to reducing their carbon footprint using both new and seasoned environmentally preferable practices. In this issue’s cover story, learn more about the practices Northeast operations are implementing as they work toward reducing their carbon footprint and conserving natural resources.

Additional Content

• Meet the three directors reelected to the Farm Credit East Board in April.
• In the CEO’s Message, Mike Reynolds admires Northeast producers’ long-term perspective and sheds light on Farm Credit East’s plans for the future. 
• In the Washington Update, Tom Cosgrove provides insight into Washington’s approach to climate policy for agriculture. 
• Learn more about Farm Credit East’s enhanced online banking experience launched earlier this year.
• Meet this year’s 33 scholarship recipients aspiring to careers in agriculture, forest products, commercial fishing and related fields.