Katherine DeWitt Appointed as Agricultural Services Administrator
Published on October 08, 2026
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger Appoints Katherine DeWitt as County’s Agricultural Services Administrator
KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger today announced the appointment of Katherine DeWitt as the County’s Agricultural Services Program Administrator in the Department of Economic Development. DeWitt will lead the development and implementation of programs that support Ulster County’s diverse farms and expand value-added production, in close coordination with the farming community.
Raised on a dairy farm in Accord, DeWitt brings extensive experience in agricultural systems, farmer engagement, and rural community support. A lifelong farmer, she currently manages the family farm alongside her father, overseeing finances, livestock management, crop production, and partnerships with regional agricultural organizations. DeWitt has frequently connected with Ulster County Soil and Water, Natural Resources Conservation Services, United States Department of Agriculture, Cornell-Cooperative Extension, Open Space Institute, Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy, and Hudson Valley Agribusiness Development Corporation.
“Katherine’s knowledge and practical experience, deep farming roots in Ulster County, and strong relationships with local partners make her an exceptional fit for this role,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “I look forward to working with her to support this vital sector of our economy and help ensure that agriculture continues to thrive in Ulster County for the long term.”
After completing her studies, DeWitt spent seven years with DairyNZ in New Zealand, rising to Senior Solutions & Development Specialist. In that role, she translated agricultural science and policy into practical tools for farmers, designed workshops and guidelines used across the dairy sector, managed projects in animal care, biosecurity, and farm business, and led farmer‑centered design initiatives. Her work supported thousands of producers and strengthened on‑farm resiliency and compliance.
“After 10 years living abroad in New Zealand farming, studying agriculture, and supporting farmers through research, development, and extension, I'm especially excited to be able to continue doing so back home in Ulster County,” said Katherine DeWitt. “As a farmer from a multi-generational farm that has diversified in order to adapt to the changing agricultural landscape, I'm deeply familiar with both the hardships and rewards of farming. I'm thrilled to be joining the Department of Economic Development, working with Jen Metzger, farmers, and agricultural stakeholders to support fellow farmers in the community I am so proud to call home.”
“Agriculture and value-added production are central to Ulster County’s economic development strategy, and we are thrilled to welcome Katherine to our team,” said Leslie Wellington, Director of Economic Development. “Her unique experience and deep understanding of the agricultural community will help us strengthen the ecosystem of resources and opportunities that support this vital sector — from education and training to access to capital, shared equipment, and cross-sector partnerships. Katherine brings tremendous enthusiasm and commitment to our farming communities, and I look forward to working with her to expand economic opportunities, advance sustainability, and build a more connected and resilient agricultural economy.”
DeWitt holds a Master of Management in Agricultural Systems (First Class Honours) and a Bachelor of Agriculture from Lincoln University in New Zealand, after beginning her studies at Cornell University. She is also a member of the Town of Rochester Housing Advisory Committee and co‑author of a 2025 peer‑reviewed publication on livestock quality‑of‑life assessment.
DeWitt succeeds Deborah DeWan, who recently retired. The Agricultural Services Administrator position was originally created in the aftermath of COVID as part of the ARPA-funded Ulster County Agricultural Crisis Relief Program. With the adoption of the 2025 Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan, the position has shifted to a focus on the Plan’s implementation to support long-term farm viability and a strong and diverse agricultural sector.