A former president of the New York Farm Bureau has passed away.
From New York Farm Bureau: “Widely considered one of the most influential people in New York agriculture, Dick McGuire played a role in many major policy decisions – such as right-to-farm issues – that still impact agriculture and Farm Bureau today. He served as NYFB president from 1970-1984 and commissioner of the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets from 1989-1995.
“Dick served on the executive committee of the American Farm Bureau Federation from 1972-1984, where he led international trade trips and helped create AFBF’s organizational structure. His countless career accomplishments included winning the New York State Agriculture Society’s Distinguished Service award in 1997, the Outstanding Committee of Agriculture Award in the biotech industry category in 1995, and the Distinguished Service Award from New York Farm Bureau in 1988.”
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball released a statement on McGuire’s passing:
“We mourn the loss of former New York State Agriculture Commissioner Dick McGuire, who made an enduring impact on New York agriculture throughout his long life. A fierce advocate for farmers and a natural leader, Dick held many positions in agricultural organizations both statewide and nationally, including on the Executive Committee of the American Farm Bureau Federation, as President of New York Farm Bureau, and as Commissioner of Agriculture, a position that I am privileged to hold today. Dick rightfully received many accolades over the years for his tireless efforts to advance agriculture, as he played an important role in shaping agricultural policy and the industry as we know it today. We offer our deepest condolences to Dick’s family and friends; he will be remembered here at the Department for his friendship and service to farmers everywhere, his inspiring leadership and mentorship, his deep commitment to agriculture, and his many accomplishments that helped support and advance New York agriculture.”
McGuire celebrated his 102nd birthday on Nov. 3.
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