Saratoga Springs, N.Y., January 23, 2009— American Farmland Trust (AFT) believes Governor Paterson has made an inspired choice in selecting Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) to fill New York’s vacant Senate seat. “Senator Gillibrand knows the value of farms and farmland to all New Yorkers,” says David Haight, AFT’s New York State Director.  “She is also a staunch advocate for the environment and the healthy food that New York farmers produce,” added Haight.

Dennis Nuxoll, AFT’s Senior Director of Government Relations notes that Senator Gillibrand, like her predecessor, former Senator Hillary Clinton, was very involved in shaping the 2008 Farm Bill and representing New York on agricultural issues. Both Haight and Nuxoll concur that “Senator Gillibrand will undoubtedly continue her support for New York farmers and farmland conservation, and leadership on agriculture, food and environmental issues. We wish Senator Gillibrand all the best as she joins the Senate and pledge to continue to work with her in her new role.”

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