Unsurprisingly, many of the industries in Washington County NY are deeply connected to the region’s natural landscape. Fertile farmland, valuable stone deposits, and abundant forests have helped shape the county’s economy for generations. Today, these natural resources continue to support agriculture, quarrying, fabrication, and other businesses that define the county’s rural economy.
Located in New York’s Upper Hudson Valley, Washington County has long been a place where industries grow directly from the land. From working farms to historic slate quarries, paper mills and wood-based manufacturing, the region’s natural assets have continued to attract businesses seeking access to raw materials, skilled labor, and a strong tradition of craftsmanship.
Agriculture: A Foundation of the Local Economy
Naturally, agriculture remains one of the most important industries in Washington County NY. The county’s rolling farmland supports dairy farms, livestock operations, maple producers, and specialty farms that supply food products throughout upstate NY and beyond.
In fact, as of 2024, Washington County was the largest agricultural county in the Capital Region, boasting 750+ farms, 194,000 acres of farmland and more than 30,500 dairy cows! And, another fun fact: the milk from those cows supply many beloved dairy brands, including Stewart’s Shops, Cabot Creamery, Argyle Cheese Farmer and Battenkill Valley Creamery.
The county’s abundant farm stands, farmers markets, and agritourism experiences allow visitors and residents to connect directly with our local agriculture economy and the farmers who support it. In addition, seasonal events and tours (such as the Art + Ag Tour and County Bounty Tour) highlight the working landscape that defines much of Washington County.
Today, long-standing agricultural traditions are still visible throughout the county. Farm stores and markets feature locally produced goods ranging from dairy products and fresh produce to maple syrup and baked goods. Visitors exploring the countryside frequently encounter these local businesses, which play a vital role in supporting our rural economy.
A Prime Example of the Diversifying Industries of Washington County, NY
As farmers expand into new markets and diversify their offerings, agriculture continues to evolve, strengthening both the economic and cultural identity of Washington County. One great example of this is Hicks Orchard, New York’s oldest u-pick orchard.
Once a seasonal apple orchard, Hicks is now a popular destination for berry picking in the summer, as well as unique signature events throughout the year. On top of that, with the addition of their Slyboro Ciderhouse, Hicks Orchard has expanded into the craft beverage market, strengthening their business’ resiliency and appeal to visitors of various ages and interests.
Slate Quarrying and the Historic Slate Valley
When it comes to major industries in Washington County NY, we’d be remiss to leave out the massive legacy of stone quarrying – particularly slate.
The county lies within the historic Slate Valley, an area known for producing high-quality slate used in roofing, construction, and architectural design. Beginning in the nineteenth century, slate quarries in the region became a popular (and durable) building material throughout the Northeast.
Interestingly, so much slate was exported from Washington County that Granville, NY became known as the “Colored Slate Capital of the World!” In part, this was due to the fact that this is the only source of red slate in the world, though many other colors of slate are also abundant in the region, including green, gray and purple.
The discovery of this valuable natural resource spurred an industry that attracted many immigrant laborers from Wales, Ireland, Italy, and areas of Eastern Europe. In addition to their labor, these immigrants brought their rich cultural traditions, customs, and skills that influenced the local communities.
Over time, the slate industry shaped our local culture and provided employment for generations of residents. Even today, the legacy of quarrying remains visible in historic structures, local architecture, and preserved heritage sites that tell the story of the region’s industrial past. To dive deeper into the fascinating history of how slate shaped the communities in our county, visit the Slate Valley Museum in Granville.
This historic industry continues to be an important part of the county’s identity, demonstrating how natural resources can drive economic activity for decades.
Timber and Wood Products
Similarly, Washington County’s forests have also played an important role in supporting local industry.
Easy access to timber resources historically encouraged the development of businesses that relied on wood products and woodworking. Abundant forest resources provided raw materials for construction, furniture production, and other wood-based industries.
This relationship between natural resources and business location can still be seen in companies such as Telescope Casual Furniture. Founded in the early twentieth century, the company relocated operations from New York City to Washington County to be closer to natural materials such as timber and a skilled workforce. Today, Telescope remains one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of outdoor furniture, producing high-quality products that are distributed nationwide. Watch our video about Telescope to learn more.
On a smaller scale, New Collar Goods puts the county’s natural resources to good use by producing handmade small-batch furniture in Salem, NY. Their eco-friendly designs are made to stand the test of time and highlight the natural beauty of the wood, reflecting the timeless and down-to-earth values that define our community.
The presence of companies like those above reflect how natural resources can influence where businesses choose to locate and grow.
Water Power and Paper Production
Another major natural resource shaping the industries in Washington County, NY is water. Historically, the county’s rivers and streams have provided the reliable water power needed to power sawmills, gristmills and eventually paper production facilities.
In particular, paper manufacturing developed as a natural extension of the county’s forest economy. With abundant timber available for pulp and steady water supplies for processing and power, Washington County offered an ideal environment for early paper mills and wood-processing industries. These facilities converted locally harvested wood into paper products that were distributed across the Northeast and beyond.
When it came to both transporting goods and supporting industrial operations, water resources played a critical role. In particular, the Hudson River and the Champlain Canal created vital connections between rural producers and larger markets, connections later strengthened when the railroads moved in.
Although many of these industries have evolved over time, their legacy remains visible in riverfront communities and historic mill sites that once powered a major part of the county’s industrial economy.
Yet this heritage lives on in several modern papermaking businesses that still operate in the area, including Morcon Tissue, Irving Tissue and Hollingsworth & Vose.
Skilled Trades and Fabrication: Supporting the Industries of Washington County, NY
In addition to agriculture, quarrying, and timber industries, Washington County’s ample natural resources also support businesses involved in fabrication and skilled trades.
These businesses transform raw materials into finished products used in construction, infrastructure, and other industries. Machining, metalworking, and fabrication operations found throughout the county contribute to a diverse economic landscape that blends traditional industries with modern production. Currently, this includes operations such as Cambridge Valley Machining and Miller Mechanical, as well as DK Machine who creates parts for military submarines.
The success of these industries is closely tied to the region’s workforce. Generations of residents have developed expertise in trades ranging from quarrying and farming to manufacturing, construction and fabrication, creating a strong foundation of practical skills that continue to support local businesses.
A Rural Economy Built on Natural Strengths
As you can see, the industries in Washington County, NY demonstrate how natural resources can shape a resilient rural economy.
Agriculture supports food production and agritourism across the county. Slate quarrying and stone built communities throughout the Northeast. Timber resources helped grow woodworking and furniture manufacturing, while local rivers powered mills and paper production.
Together, these industries create a balanced economic landscape rooted in the county’s land, workforce, and history. From farm markets and slate quarries to forests and riverfront communities, Washington County continues to grow from the natural resources that have shaped it for generations.
