Farmland for a New Generation New York Regional Navigators provide training and on-the-ground customized support for farmers and landowners in the region throughout New York.
Name: Haley Collins
Organization: Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County
Title: Ag Program Coordinator
1. Where in New York State do you work?
Sullivan County, NY
2. What brought you to this work? What is your connection to agriculture?
I’ve always been drawn to work that supports farmers and uplifts agricultural communities. Over the years, I’ve focused on building programs around land access, climate resiliency and agricultural justice because I’ve seen how vital these issues are to their success. Agriculture is so much more than growing food—it’s about people, land, and the connections between them. That’s what keeps me motivated in this work.
3. What is your area of expertise? In what ways do you typically work with farmers and farmland owners?
I currently work in farmland access, agricultural planning, and community-based programming. I work directly with farmers to connect them to resources like funding opportunities, conservation programs, and technical assistance, while also helping landowners navigate how to keep their land in farming. It’s a mix of relationship-building and providing tools and education that help build long term success.
4. Can you give an example of one farmer or farmland owner you are currently working with, the challenges they are facing, and how you are helping them work through those challenges?
I’m working with a couple who want to purchase land from a well-established farm in the county. They’re navigating a challenging transition because buying farmland isn’t just a financial transaction; it’s deeply emotional. The current landowners have spent their lives building their farm, and the couple wants to honor that legacy while creating something of their own. Helping them through this process has been a growth experience for all of us. Farmers are passionate, and land access brings up a lot of emotions; identity, legacy, security. It’s all tied into the land.
To support them, I’ve helped them tap into as many programs and resources as possible. This work has taught me the importance of navigating both the logistical and emotional aspects of these transitions with care.
5. What is one piece of advice you have for farmers seeking land or farmland owners hoping to keep their land in farming?
For farmers, take the time to learn about every funding and learning opportunity available. There are so many programs, grants, and resources that can make land access more feasible. Build your network, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to lean on others for support. For landowners looking to lease, know that relationships like these take time and emotional energy. Being open and willing to put in effort, collaborate, communicate and learn from farmers is key.
