Mar 17 Trends in Agriculture and Compatible Economic Development, Norrie Point, 4-7pm

Jun 16 Strengthening Protection of Our Historic Sites, Tivoli Village Hall, 4-7pm

The Northern Dutchess Alliance understands the strong commitment to home rule and the individuality of each community in the region. Each of these opportunities provide unique community development action plans along with potential business opportunity ideas which are consistent with the Northern Dutchess Alliance’s guiding principles but also respect the unique needs of the individual communities.

The Blueprint for Economic Development   The Blueprint ties together regional planning efforts of the Northern Dutchess Alliance for the past six years and advocates for community economic development which is founded on the principles of collaboration, an investment in people, responsibility, and a commitment to an on-going, holistic process. It is consistent with all of our member communities planning documents and it places the emphasis on locally led initiatives. The Northern Dutchess Alliance, through extensive public outreach and research, believes this vision for a sustainable local economy is achievable and desirable for the region.

The Buy Local Campaign   Through a Hudson River Valley Greenway grant, the Northern Dutchess Alliance will sponsor a year long effort to raise awareness and educate the public on the benefits of buying locally. Partnering with local chambers of commerce and businesses, the campaign will provide free giveaways, fact sheets and buy local events.

Dutchess County Bounty   Dutchess County has long recognized the value of agriculture as an industry and as a contributing factor to the rural character cherished by many residents. In an effort to identify new income streams for local farmers, the Northern Dutchess Alliance is partnering with the Hudson Valley Agribusiness Development Corporation and Dutchess County Tourism to create the Dutchess County Bounty. This program will link local producers to our local professional buyers by creating a database of buyers and sellers with a list of products and their availability. Farmers work directly with chefs to sell products and possibly grow specific crops for them. This benefits the farmer by increasing his/her bottom line and the restaurateur who advertises the use of fresh, local products, which is becoming increasingly important.

For more information on any of these initiatives, please contact Mary Ann Johnson at info@northerndutchess.org.

Rhinebeck’s Gigi Trattoria has helped push the retail synergy that neighboring communities have yet to capitalize upon.

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