Maria Lucero is the New York Program and Operations Coordinator at American Farmland Trust, bringing over a decade of expertise in program management, operations, and community engagement. Maria will play a key role in managing farmer focused education, outreach, and research initiatives throughout New York State in support of the Climate Smart Commodities project in partnership with Truterra. Maria is passionate about creating lasting connections between people, land, and sustainability.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, America’s Dairyland, Maria relocated to Western New York in 2016, where she deepened her commitment to agriculture and community development. Her leadership experience includes serving as Director of Development and Community Impact at Providence Farm Collective and as Agriculture Education Coordinator for the Erie County Agricultural Society. Outside of work, Maria finds joy in hiking, experimenting in the kitchen, and embracing everyday adventures with her family and friends.