Schoharie County's Richard Ball has been unanimously confirmed as New York State commissioner of the Department of Agriculture and Markets.
A native New Yorker, Commissioner Ball has worked in agriculture since he was 18, beginning as a farm worker at a vegetable farm in Rhode Island, where he later became operations manager.
After 20 years in Rhode Island, Commissioner Ball moved back to New York and for the past 20 years he's been owner-operator of Schoharie Valley Farms.
"I thank Governor Cuomo for the opportunity to lead and the State Senate for confirming my nomination," Commissioner Ball said.
"As a lifelong farmer, my main goal is to work with industry to help New York agriculture get to that next level. [We're] on the cusp of great things."
Commissioner Ball's confirmation drew praise and congratulations from across the state.
"Richard has been pivotal in addressing industry needs, raising the agency's profile among our partners in the private sector and ultimately, helping to create jobs and grow the state's economy," Governor Andrew Cuomo said.
"I congratulate Richard on this well-deserved confirmation and thank the New York State Senate and its leadership for their unanimous confirmation."
State Senator Jim Seward also called Commissioner Ball's confirmation "well-deserved."
"His profound understanding of our state's agriculture traditions, along with his innovative new ideas, will help steer our farms forward," Senator Seward said.
"It's a proud day for Schoharie County and a great day for New York agriculture."
New York Farm Bureau President Dean Norton said his organization looks forward to working with the new farmer-in-chief.
"As a farmer himself, he's especially attuned to the needs and priorities of the diverse agricultural community across this state," Mr. Norton said.
"As a longtime friend and colleague, I have full confidence in Commissioner Ball and the passion he brings to his new role."
Commissioner Ball had been serving as acting commissioner since he was nominated for the post by Governor Cuomo in January.
He and his wife, Shirley, as well as his three children are actively involved in farming with a growing number of grandchildren.