Agriculture Day at Connecticut State Capitol
by George Looby, DVM
On
Wednesday, March 16, Connecticut Agriculture was on display at the
State Capitol to showcase its importance to the State’s economy and the
role that it plays in enhancing the overall quality of life within the
state. Every segment of the widely diverse agricultural community was
represented with booths and displays highlighting their unique
individual contributions to that which makes this state so appealing.
The exhibits were there to help educate state legislators about the role
that agriculture plays in the state and the importance of insuring that
it remain a viable entity. Many legislators represent urban
constituencies with little or no exposure to things relating to
agriculture so informing them of its importance is of vital concern
especially during the current legislative session when the preparation
of the budget is number one on everyone’s agenda. Many of the groups
represented had samples of their wares to offer to attendees thereby
capturing their attention, the best route to capture a politicians
attention is often through his or her stomach.
Erin Pirro representing the Connecticut Agricultural Information Council welcomed the audience to the ceremony and introduced the newly appointed Commissioner of Agriculture Steven Reviczky who offered comments regarding his role as commissioner and what he hopes to accomplish during his tenure.
Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman read a Proclamation signed by Governor Dannel Malloy designating March 16, 2011 Agriculture Day in the State of Connecticut. The Governor made a trip through the exhibits soon after they opened but other business prevented him from remaining for the main ceremony.
A highlight of the annual ceremony is the announcement of the Connecticut Outstanding Young Farmer Award. This year’s recipient was Matthew Peckham of Woodstock, a sixth generation dairy farmer who has made several significant improvements to his operation since assuming responsibility. Matthew milks 125 cows on his 140 acre farm with a 23,000 pound herd average. Commissioner of Agriculture Steven K. Reviczky made the presentation with the awarding of a plaque to Matthew in recognition of his considerable achievement.
All segments of agricultural community need to do everything their resources will allow to keep the public informed as to what is current, how they benefit from a viable agriculture and what they can do to insure that it will remain that way.
Article from countryfolks.com
For more information on Agriculture in Connecticut: http://www.ct.gov/doagwww.ct.gov/doag
