Agricultural & farmland protection board (AFPB)

About us

Wyoming County is the #1 county in New York State for both agricultural production and milk production. With 700 active farms, agriculture is a cornerstone of the County's economy, community identity, and way of life.

The County is committed to conserving, protecting, and encouraging the continued use of its agricultural land for the production of food and other farm products. In addition, Wyoming County recognizes its farmland as a vital natural and ecological recourse - providing open space, protecting water quality, and supporting wildlife habitats. 

The purpose of the Wyoming County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board is to strengthen the economic viability of the agricultural industry and preserve productive farmland throughout the County. A strong agricultural sector is essential to the economic health and sustainability of our local communities. 

Quarterly meetings

Meetings are held at 4:00 p.m. in the Second Floor Conference Room of the Ag & Business Center. In 2026, meetings are scheduled for January 22, May 21, July 23, and November 19.

Board responsibilities

  • Supporting Farming
    • Promoting local policies and initiatives that help farmers maintain economically viable operations.
  • Advising on Agricultural Districts 
    • Working with the Wyoming County Soil & Water Conservation District to establish, modify, or terminate agricultural districts. 
  • Reviewing Notices of Intent 
    • Assessing proposed developments under Sections 305.4 and 305-a of Agriculture and Markets Law 25-AA.
  • Implementing the Farmland Protection Plan 
    • Supporting and updating the goals of the Wyoming County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan. 
  • Recommending PDR Applications 
    • Reviewing and recommending Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) applications to the NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets. Through these grants, farmers are compensated for placing a conservation easement on their land. While farmers retain ownership and control of their property, the easement ensures permanent protection from non-agricultural development. The County partners with the Genesee Valley Conservancy to administer the PDR program. 

Board members

This Board is composed of a diverse group of stakeholders committed to supporting agriculture in Wyoming County. Members include local farmers, a representative from the Board of Supervisors, the County Planner and representatives from Cornell Cooperative Extension and the agri-business sector. The Board meets quarterly to address the challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural community, working collaboratively to develop practical solutions that help local farmers grow, adapt, and thrive in a changing agricultural landscape. 

Farm members

  • Thomas McCormick
  • Angela Brunner
  • Garrett Peters
  • Amy Perl    

Ag land preservation representative 

  • E. Joseph Gozelski

Agri-business representative

  • David DeGolyer

Cornell cooperative extension agent(s)

  • Caron Gala

Soil & water conservation district board of directors chair

  • Daryl Heiby

Board of supervisor's member


County planner


Director of real property tax services