Q&A with Regional Navigator: Cornell Small Farms

Farmland for a New Generation New York Regional Navigators provide training and on-the-ground customized support for farmers and landowners in the region throughout New York.

Name: Mildred Alvarado
Organization: Cornell Small Farms Program
Title: Futuro en Ag Director

1. Where in New York State do you work?
   I work throughout New York State as part of the Cornell Small Farms Program, leading the Futuro en Ag project, an initiative focused on empowering Latino/a/x agricultural communities. Our work spans regions such as Long Island, Hudson Valley, central and western New York, New York City, and other counties wherever there are Latino/a/x farmers and aspiring farmers.

   Through equitable education (in Spanish and English) and technical assistance, we support aspiring and current farmers in accessing opportunities to start their own farms, enhance their skills, or grow their farm businesses. Recognizing that Latino farmers have historically been overlooked, we strive to create visibility and bridge the gap between service providers and farmers, ensuring they have the tools and resources to succeed. Wherever you go in New York, you'll find Latino farmers whose agricultural legacy enriches both the state and their countries of origin.

2. What brought you to this work? What is your connection to agriculture?
   I was born in Honduras and grew up on a small family farm where my parents, both farmers, taught me to love and respect agricultural work and the deep connection we share with the land. On our farm, we cultivated coffee, corn, beans, and fruits, alongside raising animals. It was there, surrounded by nature, that I learned to dream and believe in limitless possibilities. The farm gave us everything we needed—food, love, and freedom.

   My upbringing inspired me to study agronomy in Honduras and later pursue graduate studies in agriculture in the United States. When I learned about the Cornell Small Farms Program and its focus on supporting the Latino/a/x agricultural community, I felt it was the perfect opportunity to give back to a field that has shaped my life. Now, as the director of the Futuro en Ag project, I have the honor of empowering Latino/a/x producers, helping them overcome barriers, and supporting them in building sustainable agricultural businesses. Agriculture has been my foundation since birth, and it continues to be my passion and purpose.

3. What is your area of expertise? In what ways do you typically work with farmers and farmland owners?
   My expertise lies in agronomy, local economic development, environmental sciences, and farm business management. I hold multiple advanced degrees, including a doctorate focused on supporting small-scale farmers in creating successful, market-ready businesses. My multidisciplinary background allows me to address challenges in agriculture from various angles, such as financial planning, market access, sustainable practices, land acquisition and others.

   In my role at Futuro en Ag, I lead tailored programs that provide technical assistance and education to Spanish-first farmers and landowners. Our approach is personalized—we listen to their needs and design strategies to help them achieve their goals. For example, many farmers we work with face barriers like limited English proficiency, lack of access to technology, challenges securing capital and land, and more.

   To address these obstacles, we provide hands-on guidance, from developing business plans and navigating grant opportunities to securing land through lease, purchase, or collaborative models like cooperatives and Community Land Trusts. Working alongside a dedicated team, we accompany farmers every step of the way, ensuring they have the tools and confidence to succeed. Our mission is to meet farmers where they are and empower them to build resilient agricultural businesses.

4. Can you give an example of one farmer or farmland owner you are currently working with, the challenges they are facing, and how you are helping them work through those challenges?
   One of the Latino farmers we work with has faced challenges that, unfortunately, are common in the community. He was renting land without a formal lease, which left him in a vulnerable situation. In the midst of his efforts to improve the land and expand his network of buyers, he was unexpectedly evicted, leaving him without a place to continue production.

   Our team helped him identify a new plot of land where he could restart his operations, and we worked with him to secure a formal lease to provide stability and protect his investment. We continue to provide the farmer and his family with ongoing technical and educational support to strengthen their business and work toward purchasing their own land. We will ensure they are accompanied throughout the process, helping them overcome any obstacles along the way.

   This example reflects one of the many the challenges faced by many Latino/a/x farmers and highlights the importance of providing continuous support to build sustainable futures in agriculture.

5. What is one piece of advice you have for farmers seeking land or farmland owners hoping to keep their land in farming?
   For farmers seeking land, my advice is to believe in your abilities and set clear goals. The journey can be challenging, but resilience and persistence will take you a long way. Build a support network by connecting with programs, organizations, and other farmers who can guide you. Explore collaborative models such as cooperatives or Community Land Trusts, which can make land more accessible and affordable. Also, take the time to learn about financing opportunities, such as grants or loans, that can help you to secure land and grow your business. Most importantly, don’t let fear hold you back—each step forward is progress toward your dream.

   For farmland owners, my advice is to see the potential in sharing opportunities with aspiring farmers. If you have unused land, consider renting a few acres to a dedicated farmer, especially those who may lack resources but have the passion and skills to succeed. You could also explore long-term strategies like Community Land Trusts to ensure your land remains productive and supports future generations of farmers. By fostering these connections, you’re not only keeping your land in farming but also contributing to the growth and sustainability of the agricultural community.

   Ultimately, collaboration and mutual support are key. Together, we can create a thriving agricultural future where everyone—farmers and landowners alike—can achieve their goals.