Hartford County Farm Bureau is an active association of more than 700 members who advocate on behalf of farming issues with legislators, and work at educating consumers about agriculture. Hartford County, in the heart of the state, has always prided itself on its fertile Farmington and Connecticut river-valley land.

 

Despite its proximity to urban centers, Hartford County is still home to close to 800 farms. It's tops in Connecticut for the market value of its production. Famous Connecticut -grown shade tobacco--95% of it-- comes from Hartford County. Vegetables, fruits and berries plus the greenhouse and nursery industry account for most of its farm operations. In fact, half of the state's sweet corn is grown in Hartford County. Dairy farming as well as farms raising horses and ponies can also be found here. (Source: 2008 Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA) Agri-tourism is growing in popularity, and consumers enjoy the wine, ice cream, maple and honey products that are also produced in Hartford County's 29 towns.

 

Hartford County Farm Bureau is active in educating the public about agriculture. Each year, HCFB coordinates free farm tours. In addition, HCFB coordinates an education series that serves to elevate the contributions and benefits of agriculture.

 

HCFB also supports future farmers by offering a scholarship which it awards to a college student each spring. For both young farmers and seasoned agriculture professionals, HCFB offers support and a shared purpose in promoting farming businesses and the benefits of farming life.

 

Hartford County Farm Bureau is involved in supporting every aspect of agriculture in its 29 towns, Avon, Berlin, Bloomfield, Bristol, Burlington, Canton, East Granby, East Hartford, East Windsor, Enfield, Farmington, Glastonbury, Granby, Hartford, Hartland, Manchester, Marlborough, New Britain, Newington, Plainville, Rocky Hill, Simsbury, Southington, South Windsor, Suffield, West Hartford, Wethersfield, Windsor, Windsor Locks.