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FFA students meet Gov. Lamont at Ag Day

FFA students meet Gov. Lamont at Ag Day

Housatonic Valley FFA students meet Gov. Ned Lamont and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz in Hartford Wednesday, March 18. From left: Lamont, Logan Miller, Logan Padelli, Madison Melino, Hayden Bell, Lola Miller, Scarlet Visconti, Taylor Green, and Bysiewicz.

Provided

HARTFORD — Housatonic Valley FFA students traveled to Hartford and met with Gov. Ned Lamont on Wednesday, March 18.

The occasion was Ag Day, part of National Agriculture Week that took place from March 16-22. The event highlighted the importance of agriculture in Connecticut, showcasing the state’s farms, agricultural organizations and programs that support local food, agritourism and careers in agriculture.

Students spoke with more than 50 vendors representing Connecticut-owned farms, producers and organizations.

A highlight of the day was meeting with state leaders, including Lamont, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt, State Rep. Maria Horn, Senator Stephen Harding and Cricket Jacquier of North Canaan.

Ag Day at the Capitol celebrated the state’s agricultural heritage, connected FFA students with local producers and helped them learn about the role agriculture plays in Connecticut’s economy.

Ag Day was also an opportunity for students to see firsthand how their voices can influence agricultural policy and advocate for the hard-working agriculturists who sustain their communities.

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