ALBANY - Agricultural production on Long Island reached nearly $260 million in annual revenue, according to a report released by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.

"Long Island's agricultural industry and wineries generate much needed economic activity and provide a bountiful harvest for local consumption," said DiNapoli. "Visitors who travel to the Island for its fall festivals and winery tours also frequent nearby restaurants and shops, helping sustain many small businesses. These industries create jobs and stimulate spending in local communities to the benefit to all New Yorkers."

Highlights of the report:

• Long Island is home to 644 farms and 35,690 acres of farmland.
• Long Island is the top regional producer of nursery, greenhouse, floriculture and sod products.
• At $7,249 per acre, agricultural sales on Long Island were more than ten times the state average.
• Long Island is home to 57 of New York State's 316 wineries. Its wineries cover more than 3,000 acres and produce 1.2 million gallons of wine annually.
• Suffolk County accounted for more than 90 percent ($242.9 million) of Long Island's $258.7 million in agricultural sales for 2007.
• Suffolk County is the state's largest producer of pumpkins, cauliflower and tomatoes and is the third-largest producer of grapes, peaches and strawberries.

DiNapoli released the report at White Post Farms, a fifth generation family-owned farm that has been in operation since 1886.

"Suffolk County is proud to lead the state in agricultural productivity and the nation in farmland preservation," said Suffolk County executive Steven Bellone. "Today's announcement confirms the effectiveness of Suffolk's Purchase of Development Rights program, which to date has permanently preserved nearly one-third of Suffolk's farmland. Preserved farmland contributes approximately $110 million annually to the regional economy. Recognizing agriculture's critical role in increasing tourism, creating jobs and generating economic activity,