Live Animal Carcass Evaluation 2-part series May 9 and May 30, Terryville CT
Passport to CT Wine Country from May through December 2025
This year’s program celebrates the dedication and diversity of Connecticut’s farm wine scene, from charming countryside vineyards to family-owned estates producing award-winning vintages. With each visit, guests can collect a stamp and build toward entries into prize drawings of unique experiences in Connecticut.
“The Passport to CT Wine Country is more than just a challenge. It’s a way to support local growers and winemakers, discover hidden gems, and connect with the people behind the wine,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “With eight months to visit locations, this is an opportunity to patronize other local businesses as you plan a day, or weekend, of visits while having fun with family or friends.”
As part of the Passport journey this year, participants can opt to use the digital app available through Apple App Store or Google Play or pick up a printed passport book at a participating farm winery. Both the printed book and app can be obtained at no cost.
At each participating farm winery, guests can collect a digital or physical stamp which equals one point towards a reward level. Upon reaching a prize level, those points will enter them into a prize drawing. More than 60 prizes will be available, valued at more than $10,000 total, divided among three award categories. The three tiers are Taster (12 or more stamps), Sommelier (18 or more stamps), and Winemaker (35 or more stamps). Participants who visit 35 participating farm wineries will also be eligible for a commemorative gift, with up to 50 names drawn at random to recognize their support of Connecticut’s farm wineries.
Connecticut has more than 45 licensed farm wineries, with 36 participating in the Passport program this year. All licensed farm wineries in Connecticut are required to use a minimum of 25% Connecticut Grown fruit. Additionally, some farm wineries have the CT Grown designation as part of a voluntary program to highlight farm wineries using at least 51% Connecticut Grown fruit.
The 2025 Passport program concludes on December 31, 2025, and the prize drawing will be held no later than January 31, 2026. For more information about Connecticut Farm Wineries or the Passport to Connecticut Wine Country, visit their website at ctwinecountry.com.
Connecticut Urban Agriculture and Gardening Symposium May 3
Register here:
CT Farmers’ Market Networking Event April 30 in New Haven
Join the newly formed Connecticut Farmers’ Market Association for an evening of connecting with fellow market managers, board members, and community partners at the beautiful Hotel Marcel New Haven on April 30 from 5 to 7 pm. This in-person event is your opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build relationships within our community. Whether you’re a seasoned market manager or just starting out, this event is perfect for networking and learning from others in the industry. Don’t miss out on this chance to grow your network and expand your knowledge. RSVP at this link:
CT Farmers’ Market Association Networking Event Tickets, Wed, Apr 30, 2025 at 5:00 PM | Eventbrite
Proposed New Milford Agricultural Zoning Regulation Public Hearing Tuesday, March 25
Greetings,
The continued Public Hearing on the draft agricultural zoning regulations is scheduled for Tuesday evening at 7 PM at Town Hall. The attached document represents the changes discussed between the Committee and the community members present at the Committee meetings on February 10th and February 26th.
If there are any questions, please reach out to me at steven.kleppin3@gmail.com
Steve Kleppin
See changes below:
Solid Ground Ag Mechanics Training March 15, March 22, March 29, April 9
Click here for more information or to register.
UConn Extension Biosecurity Workshops for Livestock and Poultry March 20 and March 22
Register here.