The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) is set to celebrate National Agriculture Week from March 16-22, 2025. The event highlights the role of agriculture in daily life and its economic impact. Connecticut hosts 5,000 farm operations across 370,000 acres, employing 30,000 people and contributing $4 billion to the state’s economy.
Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt stated, “Farming is a calling for our producers who put their heart and soul into what they produce. But we also want consumers to embrace agriculture as a part of life – from the food they eat, agritourism and recreational activities, and the open spaces they enjoy.” He emphasized that agriculture not only feeds communities but also supports local economies by fostering small businesses and creating jobs.
In collaboration with the Connecticut Agricultural Information Council (CAIC), CT DoAg will host Ag Day at the Capitol on March 19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will feature over 40 agricultural organizations showcasing farming activities, nutrition programs, and career opportunities in agriculture. Attendees can sample CT Grown products and participate in programming at noon to announce the 2025 CT Outstanding Young Farmer award.
For those unable to attend Ag Day, CT DoAg suggests several ways to support local agriculture during Ag Week:
– Seek out CT Grown products by visiting farm stores or restaurants offering locally grown food.
– Subscribe to a CSA or home delivery service for seasonal produce and other farm products.
– Engage in agritourism with pick-your-own activities available throughout various seasons.
– Thank a farmer by writing notes or sharing positive stories about local farmers’ impact.
These initiatives aim to support Connecticut’s agricultural community and strengthen the state’s economy. More information on engaging with local farms can be found at CTGrown.org.
The mission of CT DoAg is to foster a healthy climate for agriculture by developing businesses, protecting resources, enforcing animal laws, and promoting understanding of Connecticut’s agricultural diversity and economic contribution. Further details are available at www.CTGrown.gov.
For media inquiries: Rebecca Eddy at Rebecca.Eddy@ct.gov or call 860-573-0323.
