Farmland preservationists honor Gentile

     The Working Lands Alliance has recognized State Rep. Linda M. Gentile, D-Ansonia, for her work to preserve Connecticut’s disappearing farmland. 

   She received the legislative leadership award for her work as Environment Committee co-chair that led to passage of the bill to protect prime state-owned agricultural land at Southbury Training School.

     “Connecticut’s farmland is a valuable economic resource,” Gentile said. “The state has turned a corner and is working very hard to aid local farms, protect farmland and reach our goal of 21 % open space by 2023.”

     WLA Project Director Lisa Bassani said, “The Working Lands Alliance is honoring Rep. Gentile with our legislative leadership award for her incredible dedication to Connecticut agriculture and farmland preservation efforts. With her support, Connecticut permanently protected the ‘crown jewel’ of state-owned farmland at the Southbury Training School, ensuring these prime agricultural lands will remain in farming.”

     The General Assembly has made a strong two-year commitment to farmland preservation by authorizing another $10 million per-year in bonding for open space.

     The Working Lands Alliance was formed in 1999 with the purpose of preserving Connecticut’s most precious natural resource – its farmland. 

      WLA is a coalition whose supporters include more than 600 individuals and 200 businesses and organizations that include farmers, conservationists, anti-hunger groups, planners and local food enthusiasts.  

    

   This is the 35th anniversary of Connecticut’s Farmland Preservation Program – notably one of the oldest programs of its kind in the country.

This is a press release from Gentile's office.