In honor of National Farmer’s Day, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture and Governor Ned Lamont are asking Connecticut residents to incorporate locally grown and produced items into every meal this fall

This fall, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s (CT DoAg) CT Grown program challenges consumers across the state to “Put CT Grown On Your Plate,” a new program that asks residents to make room on their plates for Connecticut-grown or produced foods at every meal.

This program serves as a reminder to all Connecticut residents that they have the opportunity to incorporate fresh, healthy, and delicious foods into their everyday diets while also supporting the state’s agriculture and aquaculture communities.

“When you eat food that was grown in Connecticut, you are not only getting a nutritious meal, but you are also supporting your neighbors who work in Connecticut’s agriculture industry,” Governor Ned Lamont said. “With more than a hundred farmers’ markets operating across the state and dozens upon dozens of stores selling locally grown food, everyone has the opportunity to support Connecticut farmers.”

Connecticut is home to more than 5,500 farms covering more than 380,000 acres. The state’s agriculture industry supports 22,000 jobs in production, processing, or agribusiness and contributes approximately $4 billion to the state’s economy each year. With more than 100 farmers’ markets operating across the state, Connecticut consumers have access to fresh, local foods year-round. Eating local foods supports farmers and growers, bolsters the state’s economy, and greatly benefits the general public health.

“Adding CT Grown foods to your meal plans is a great way to promote healthy eating habits while supporting our state’s diverse array of farmers and producers,” said Bryan P. Hurlburt, Commissioner of CT DoAg. “Incorporating these locally grown or made foods can be as simple as packing an apple or milk in your child’s lunch box or seeking out the CT Grown logo at your local grocery store or dining venue.”

Read 10 Ways to Put CT Grown Products on Your Plate Every Day

Through a pair of programs — Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP), Connecticut Grown food products are accessible to families of all income levels and budgets. 

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture strongly encourages people who receive SNAP benefits to use them at farmers’ markets. Most markets accept these benefits, allowing them to be used for the purchase of fruits, vegetables, cut herbs, and honey. Some markets help these benefits go even further by doubling benefits for fruit and vegetable purchases.

Most farmers’ markets in Connecticut are affiliated with FMNP, which serves participants of Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and seniors over the age of 60 and meets income eligibility guidelines with funds through an app or card to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, cut herbs, and honey. The FMNP program is accessible between July 1 and November 30 each year.

Orr will be a CT Grown ambassador working with farmers and consumers to help increase awareness of Connecticut’s rich agriculture and aquaculture industries

Connecticut’s farming industry will have a new voice and face this fall as renowned farmer and cheesemaker Lily Orr has signed on as the new ambassador for CT Grown. Orr, who was raised on a multigenerational dairy farm in Thompson, will be highly visible throughout the state’s entire agricultural landscape — from making video content and social media posts to appearances at agricultural fairs and visiting farms in every corner of Connecticut. 

Orr was raised at Fort Hill Farms in Thompson, a third-generation dairy farm committed to sustainability and diversification. After graduating from the University of Connecticut with a degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Science, she worked at Connecticut Farmland Trust, assisting with easement acquisition and managing the CT FarmLink program. Lily currently works as the Pasteurized Cheesemaker at Cato Corner Farm in Colchester, an award-winning farmstead cheesemaker.

“We are excited to welcome Lily Orr to the CT Grown team,” said Bryan P. Hurlburt, Commissioner of CT DoAg. “Lily is a great asset to the Connecticut agricultural community and an ideal candidate for this role. She has the education, experience, and personality to make a strong connection with the people of Connecticut and demonstrate the value of our agricultural industry by showcasing the amazing farms, farmers, and producers throughout our state.”

As part of her ambassadorship, Orr will regularly meet with farmers to help amplify their presence and spread awareness about the foods and products they are producing. She will also produce content for social media, blogs, and newsletters — including creating informative and educational videos. 

“I grew up on a farm that was very diverse; we had dairy cows, a plant nursery, pick-your-own berries, a corn maze, an ice cream shop, a biodigester —  you name it,” said Orr. “Through it all, my grandparents and parents instilled in me to be proud of what we grow, produce, and give back to the local community. I’m honored to assume a role that will help spotlight Connecticut farmers and the growing agricultural potential of our state with the CT Grown brand.”