Senator Gordon Applauds CT Department of Agriculture for Supporting Local Food Systems and Strengthening Communities

HARTFORD, CT – State Senator Jeff Gordon (R-Woodstock) thanked the Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) following its announcement of nearly $1.5 million in new grant awards aimed at fortifying the state’s food supply chain and supporting local farms.

The funding, awarded through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI) and backed by the USDA, targets the often-overlooked “middle” of the food supply chain, including processing, storage, and distribution, to make fresh, healthy, locally grown food more accessible to families across Connecticut.

“I want to thank the Connecticut Department of Agriculture for continuing to invest in the future of farming and food security in our state,” said Sen. Gordon. “By strengthening local infrastructure, we’re not only supporting hardworking farmers, but also ensuring that more Connecticut families can access nutritious, locally produced food. This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking policy we need.”

 Sen. Gordon, who represents communities with strong agricultural roots, highlighted Coventry as a key beneficiary of this latest investment. Two local farms, Still River Farm LLP and Forest Mill Farm, LLC, received equipment-only grants to expand their operations.

• Still River Farm LLP will enhance its grain processing capacity with new equipment, including a conveyor and two proportioners.
• Forest Mill Farm, LLC will upgrade its maple syrup production through the purchase of three stainless steel storage tanks.

“I’m proud to see Coventry receiving this well-deserved support,” Sen. Gordon said. “These investments help local farms grow their businesses, serve their communities, and remain competitive for the future. It’s great to see towns in the 35th State Senate District recognized for their roles in Connecticut agriculture.”

As local farms continue to face challenges from high costs, climate effects, supply chain difficulties, and economic pressures, Sen. Gordon reaffirmed his commitment to supporting state policies that prioritize agricultural resilience, food access, and rural economic development.

“One of the things I do as a State Senator is support agriculture. I’m proud of the work this year to get a big farm bill passed in the legislature and signed by the Governor into law,” Sen. Gordon added. “When we invest in agriculture, we invest in our communities, our health, and our future.”

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