At 40 years, New York Farm Show highlights growing forestry challenges
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — The 2026 New York Farm Show, which wraps up today at the State Fairgrounds, is the culmination of four decades of agricultural innovation. The show is celebrating its 40th year anniversary.
More than 400 exhibitors are showcasing their products and services at the Northeast’s largest indoor farm equipment show.
Co-owner and Vice President of the New York Farm Show David Close said for equipment dealers, the Farm Show is not just a showcase, but also a key sales opportunity ahead of the busy season.
“It’s probably one of the best business shows that we could offer for the dealers,” said Close. “And spring’s right around the corner, so they’re ready to buy.”
While the Farm Show is known for heavy equipment and agricultural technology, forestry education has become a major draw. From combating invasive species to strengthening sustainable woodlot practices, forestry seminars highlight a growing reality: The future of New York agriculture is tied just as closely to the health of its forests as to the productivity of its fields.
Organizers said woodlot owners, maple producers, and land managers are looking for practical strategies to deal with invasive species threatening forest health, changing climate conditions, rising land management costs, and demand for sustainable timber practices.
New York Forest Owners Association President Ed Neuhauser warned the consequences of inaction are already visible across parts of the state, pointing at certain tree species that are beginning to show signs of decline.
“Well you could see the decline of red oak in New York State, which is a major timber species,” said Neuhauser.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York is home to nearly 19 million acres of forest—covering more than 60% of the state—which makes forestry a major economic and environmental issue.
Forestry experts at the show also discussed how warmer winters are expanding invasive insect ranges, changes in species composition in the Northeast, and the role forests play in carbon storage and climate mitigation.
Forests are the Earth’s natural lungs and carbon storage banks, removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis and storing it for decades or centuries in trees, roots, and soils. When trees are harvested sustainably, the carbon remains stored in wood products rather than being released immediately.
Forester Peter Smallidge said while invasive species pose an immediate threat, long-term forest health requires a broader strategy which includes practices designed to strengthen ecosystems and improve carbon absorption.
“We’re able to manage forests in a way that the forests are healthier, the forests sequester or absorb more carbon, and that in the long-run is going to be good for the climate,” said Smallidge.
Forestry seminars at the farm show included selective harvesting versus clear cutting, improving timber quality and long-term yield, wildlife habitat planning, and maple production best practices.
The economic impact of forestry in New York cannot be overlooked as well. According to the Empire State Forest Products Association, forestry and forest products contribute $13.1 billion annually to New York’s economy. Thousands of jobs are tied to timber, paper, furniture, and maple production. Additionally, healthy forests support tourism, hunting, and outdoor recreational activities.
Smallidge added that forestry impacts not only climate, but also maple syrup makers and timber producers.
“If there’s health problems, the maple syrup production may not be as good,” said Smallidge. “And if it got really bad, then the production of wood products might decline.”