Glens Falls, NY – Today, local Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand announced that Three Corner Field Farm located in Shushan in Washington County was awarded $35,000 from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Program for the instillation of a solar energy system.  Last year, Congresswoman Gillibrand wrote to the USDA in support of the funding request.  The 10 kilowatt solar project will replace approximately 25% of the energy used by the dairy farm. 

“I am happy we were able to help secure the funding for this important project,” said Congresswoman Gillibrand, a Member of the House Armed Services Committee.  “This funding will help Three Corner to become more energy independent.  By lowering energy costs, this 140 year old family farm will continue its strong tradition of family farming at Three Corner Field.  At this time of record oil prices, smart solutions like this are a shining example of where we should be headed.”

Congresswoman Gillibrand believes Upstate New York can be a leader in the development of renewable energy and that energy independence will create new jobs, strengthen our economic and national security and improve our environment. In Congress she is working to provide tax incentives for investment in renewable energy technologies to spur the economy and create jobs in our region.

The USDA Rural Development Program provides grants and loans for rural communities nationwide.  USDA Rural Development funds are targeted for development of vital energy, water and sewer systems, housing, health clinics, emergency service facilities and telephone service as well as economic development initiatives.