Agriculture

Long Island Farm Bureau hires new public policy director

Jessica Anson, a graduate of Cornell University with a degree in natural resources, has joined the Long Island Farm Bureau as its new public policy director. 

She will begin in the position with a two-year training program designed to give her the experience she needs to handle the company’s public policy issues, said LI Farm Bureau President Karen Rivara

“We were impressed by her intelligence and her passion for agriculture,” Ms.  Rivara said in a statement. “We first met Jessica four years ago when she applied for the [New York Farm Bureau] scholarship, and not only received the regional scholarship, but went on to win as the state finalist as well.”

Jessica Anson is the new Long Island Farm Bureau public policy director. (Credit: Courtesy)
Jessica Anson

With experience from her family’s greenhouse operation in Dix Hills, Ms. Anson said her agricultural background is what sparked her interest in exploring the relationship between people and the natural environment. She has also traveled the world assisting with local resource and restoration management programs, according to a news release.

“I think Long Island agriculture has the potential to continue its role as a major contributor to the local economy and remain a leader in NYS agriculture as a whole,” she said. “This position is the perfect chance for me to take on the issues Long Island faces and collaborate with key leaders in the industry to generate innovative solutions.”

After executive director Joe Gergela retired last year, the LI Farm Bureau restructured.

This created a new administrative director position, filled by Robert Carpenter, who worked closely with Mr. Gergela prior to his retirement. Ms. Anson will focus on public policy while Mr. Carpenter oversees all aspects of the office.

“We are entirely confident in her abilities and look forward to working with her,” Mr. Carpenter said.

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