YOUNGSVILLE, NY — A study co-sponsored by Catskill Mountainkeeper Research concludes that farming in the Catskills is poised for a resurgence that could help reverse decades of regional decline, as the area becomes a more significant supplier of fresh, local food to the New York City metro area.

The recently released study says that more collaborative efforts are needed to effectively produce, brand and distribute Catskills farm goods, as well as locally based added value processing capabilities for turning those products into foods like cheese, steaks and jams. Also needed to realize the potential of agriculture in the area are more efficient ways to get food from the region directly to New York City consumers, restaurants and grocers.

The study, titled “Western Catskill Region Foodshed Research and Analysis,” was conducted by Rebecca Hoffman Research Associates. The partner sponsor is the Natural Resources Defense Council, an environmental advocacy group with 1.3 million members and activists nationwide.

To investigate these issues, Catskill Mountainkeeper is teaming up with numerous other area organizations this fall to put on an agricultural summit for Sullivan County at the Villa Roma Resort and Conference Center in Callicoon on Monday, November 28.