Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Agriculture Day
Agriculture Day on Beacon Hill brings out the best that Massachusetts has to offer. The 7,700 farms in our state spread out across nearly 523,000 acres of open space. Not only are these farms growing outstanding products, they are also contributing $492 million to the state’s economy while supporting over 28,000 workers. The Commonwealth is ranked fifth in the US for direct market agricultural sales.
Joint efforts between the Massachusetts Promotional Board, Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, Inc, and Federation of Massachusetts Farmers Markets make this event such a hit each year. During the event farmers, producers, and agricultural organizations come together to promote locally-grown food and farm products, and discuss the agricultural industry.
We were joined by young people from across the state, some as members of 4H and others from Future Farmers of America. In the Great Hall a “Taste of Massachusetts” reception offered great food samples, all to encourage residents to buy locally produced items to support our state’s vibrant agricultural industry.
From seafood to fruits and vegetables harvested from trees, rows, bushes and bogs our state has outstanding food that is fresh, delicious and nutritious.
40 farms and food producers across the state donated food for culinary students and instructors from @Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School’s Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management Program to prepare for the event. The Department of Agricultural Resources has been promoting farm to school cafeteria programs and have engaged students by encouraging them to start gardens.
