GOV. MALLOY ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO VISIT CONNECTICUT’S 130 FARMERS’ MARKETS
With nearly all of
Connecticut’s 130 farmers’ markets now open for the season, Governor Dannel P. Malloy is encouraging residents
to eat healthy while supporting their local growers and economy by visiting one.
“We all know that there is no substitute for fresh, locally-grown
food,” said Governor Malloy, a frequent customer at markets in Hartford.
“Right now is the time to take advantage of the incredible quality
and diversity of products being offered at farmers’ markets across
our state.”
Local sweet corn is now in season, as well as blueberries, raspberries
and most popular vegetables. Other farm products such as honey, jams,
soaps, baked goods, eggs, cheeses and meats can also be found at many
of the markets.
The number of state farmers’ markets has roughly doubled in the last
decade as demand for local products has risen. Connecticut also leads
New England in the number of new farms created in recent years.
Agriculture contributes about $3.5 billion into Connecticut’s economy
and represents about 28,000 jobs. Governor Malloy has strongly supported
a variety of programs to support agriculture, including the Farmland Preservation
Program that protects existing farms from development and the Farmland
Restoration Program, which puts more acres into active production through
grants that help farmers clear overgrown, fallow land.
“Agriculture is thriving in Connecticut and farmers’ markets
are the showcase for the exceptional fruits and vegetables and other farm
products being offered by our growers,” Department of Agriculture
Commissioner Steven K. Reviczky said. “The increased interest in
local food and the state’s solid support system for our farm families
means consumers can find a market in just about any urban, suburban or
rural community.”
Many farmers’ markets also allow purchases through SNAP, WIC and
senior-nutrition voucher programs. This season, Connecticut became the
first state in the nation to offer farmers’ market vouchers to lower-income
military veterans and those with a service-connected disability.
A complete listing of farmers’ markets and information on programs
that protect and restore farmland are available on the Dept. of Agriculture’s website:
CTGrown.gov.
A map of Connecticut’s farmers’ markets can be found at
data.ct.gov.