PRESS RELEASE : Strengthening Western Connecticut Agriculture: New Study Highlights Opportunities for Growth and Sustainability 
PRESS RELEASE : Strengthening Western Connecticut Agriculture: New Study Highlights Opportunities for Growth and Sustainability 

PRESS RELEASE : Strengthening Western Connecticut Agriculture: New Study Highlights Opportunities for Growth and Sustainability 

PRESS RELEASE : Strengthening Western Connecticut Agriculture: New Study Highlights Opportunities for Growth and Sustainability 

[Sandy Hook, CT, January 29, 2025] – The Western Connecticut Council of Governments (WestCOG) has released its “Regional Agriculture Farm Viability Study,” providing a comprehensive roadmap for enhancing farm sustainability, broadening economic opportunities for farmers, and bolstering resilient food systems across the region. The study identifies critical challenges and actionable strategies to support agriculture in Western Connecticut while addressing the region’s unique socio-economic and environmental context. 

Key Findings:

  1. Diverse Agricultural Landscape: Western Connecticut hosts a variety of farms ranging from traditional row crop operations to innovative controlled environment agriculture (CEA) facilities. Farmers are leveraging direct-to-consumer sales, agritourism, and sustainable practices to adapt to high land prices and changing market demands. 
  2. Growing Role of Agritourism: Agritourism has emerged as a vital economic driver for Western Connecticut, offering significant income opportunities through events, farm-to-table experiences, and seasonal activities. A survey of residents and farmers with over 330 respondents found an overwhelming level of support to expand these operations.  
  3. Climate and Sustainability Challenges: The region faces increasing climate impacts, such as shifting precipitation patterns and rising temperatures. Farmers are adapting by integrating expensive irrigation systems and adopting regenerative practices. 
  4. Recommendations for WestCOG and its municipalities 
  • Streamlining Agriculture Regulations: Simplifying event permitting and updating zoning definitions to reflect changing demands, particularly those that support agritourism and innovative farming models. 
  • Enhancing State and Federal Collaboration: Advocating for expanded grant programs and tax incentives to support land acquisition and agricultural viability. 
  • Fostering Collaboration: Become a forum to share best practices with municipal partners and establish regional resources for farmers. 

By leveraging the identified opportunities, the region can create a vibrant, sustainable agricultural sector that benefits farmers, residents, and local businesses alike. 

WestCOG’s Executive Director, Francis Pickering, stated, “This study not only highlights the challenges faced by our farming community but also lays out a clear path for municipalities and stakeholders to bolster local agriculture. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we can ensure a vibrant future for Western Connecticut’s agricultural sector.” 

WestCOG would like to thank all the community members who contributed to the development of the study including those who participated in the online survey, stakeholder interviews, and the Project Advisory Committee. 

This project was funded in part by the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s Farm Viability Grant established by the Community Investment Act (C.G.S. Sec. 22-26j).   The complete report can be accessed herehttps://westcog.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Final-Report-Regional-Agriculture-Farm-Viability-Study-01.14.2025.pdf