Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Why do farmers call NY FarmNet?
A. Farmers call FarmNet for help in finding solutions for any farm business or family concern. Farmers turn to FarmNet for help because it is a neutral third party with no political or financial agenda.  In addition, our confidentiality policy means that farmers can feel comfortable about calling for assistance.

Q. What happens when I call NY FarmNet?
A. Farmers contact NY FarmNet by calling toll-free 1-800-547-3276 or by completing the form in the Contact Us section of this site. You will speak confidentially with a staff person who is knowledgeable about agricultural issues. You will be asked to briefly discuss the issue you called about. FarmNet staff will provide an individualized response by supplying information, making referrals, or assigning a FarmNet consultant, depending upon your needs and concerns. You will be asked to provide your name, address, phone number, and general farm data, all of which are kept confidential.

Q. If you are confidential service, then why do you request name, contact information, and farm information?
A. We collect this data in order to provide the best service to you. Sometimes we will need to research a specific topic and will need to call you back. Farm data and location are necessary to determine regional and farm-type resources. Congregate farm data (identifying farm type, size, and concerns) is used to obtain funding. Individual farm information is not shared with anyone.

Q. How much does it cost?
A. FarmNet services are provided to farmers at no cost. Sometimes you may be referred to someone who must charge a fee for their services, but there is no fee for FarmNet services (including consulting.)

Q. How can you provide services for free?
A. NY FarmNet is funded through grants, contracts and sponsorships (both public and private). The main sponsor of FarmNet is the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM), but there are many other sponsors that may vary from year to year.

Q. Who are you affiliated with?
A. NY FarmNet is a non-profit program, managed internally by the FarmNet Director who works with a Board of Directors. FarmNet is housed and administered by Cornell University, and is coordinated with Cornell Cooperative Extension. Sponsors and affiliates make referrals to FarmNet because their customers and constituents benefit from working with FarmNet, but confidentiality is maintained - our sponsors and affiliates do not receive private or individualized information about our callers without written permission. FarmNet works hard to remain an objective, professional and confidential program with a focus on providing support to farmers.

Q. Can FarmNet help me if I don't have a computer of my own?
A. Yes! In this age of technology many people think that the “net” in FarmNet refers to the internet, but it does not. The "net" in FarmNet refers to the network of services and resources that are available to support farm families and businesses.