FARMING GROWS IN CONNECTICUT

Connecticut may be the third smallest state in the nation, but the 2012 Census of Agriculture shows it has a large agricultural presence. We now have nearly 6,000 farms, which is a 60% increase from 1982. More than 900 Connecticut farms harvested vegetables for sale in 2012, with bell peppers being the most popular crop. Connecticut has livestock as well, with 774 farms raising cattle and calves, mainly to produce milk, and selling nearly $70 million worth of milk in 2012. Nearly 25% of Connecticut farms sell directly to consumers. About 10% market their products directly to retail outlets like restaurants and institutions, while 218 farms participate in community-supported agriculture programs.

 

Source: USDA, 6/12/14, CT Farms