Cultivating the Future: Enhancing Farm Viability in Western Connecticut

Western Connecticut’s agricultural roots run deep, but today’s farmers face a web of challenges as they strive to keep their operations viable in a changing world. 

The recently published Regional Agriculture Farm Viability Study, conducted by Agritecture and Christian Kanlian for the Western Connecticut Council of Governments (WestCOG), offers a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen the region’s agricultural sector. Informed by stakeholder interviews, community surveys, and detailed code and zoning regulation reviews, this project hopes to lay the groundwork for years of improvements for the sector.

Here’s are some of the most critical findings of the study:

Common Challenges in Western Connecticut Agriculture

Farmers in the region navigate a unique set of obstacles, including:

• Skyrocketing Land Costs: With farmland in the area averaging over $13,700 per acre, affordability remains a critical barrier for new and existing farmers alike.
• Regulatory Barriers: Outdated zoning laws and inconsistent definitions of farming across municipalities hinder innovation and growth.
• Infrastructure Needs: The high cost of facilities like cold storage and irrigation systems limits expansion.
• Labor Shortages: Recruiting and retaining workers is increasingly difficult, compounded by limited housing options.
• Climate Change: Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and extreme weather events demand adaptive farming practices.

Agricultural Zoning Takeaways

1. Some municipalities do not refer to agriculture at all, a significant obstacle as the code is structured such that if activities are not expressly permitted, then they are prohibited. This de facto ban on farming or construction of essential farm buildings and infrastructure is a hindrance to overall agricultural sector growth.
2. Farming is not always allowed as an accessory use which limits hobby farms and small-scale operations where farming is not the primary use. Code is generally structured to favor other uses over farm development.
3. Farmstand definitions often require paved parking spots or permanent bathrooms, an exorbitant cost ($10,000+) for a small- or medium-size farm enterprise.
4. Plans of Conservation and Development (POCDs) prioritize preserving existing agricultural businesses, not encouraging agricultural innovation or new businesses. It is essential to have a pipeline of new businesses to foster a strong agricultural ecosystem.
5. Outdated zoning categories overcomplicate farm development, for example “Farm-Residence” Zones have the perception of limiting farming only to those zones. Allow farming as a permitted use in all residential zones rather than only a “Farm-Residence” zone.
   
   

Opportunities for Growth

Despite these hurdles, Western Connecticut is ripe with opportunities. The study highlights agritourism as a key growth area, noting that activities like farm-to-table dinners, seasonal festivals, and weddings can generate significant revenue. Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) and niche farming, such as organic and specialty crop production, also hold promise.

Various models have demonstrated success including both older and novel approaches:

• Traditional Activities

• • Pick-your-own apples, berries, etc.
  • Farm stands with produce from one or multiple farms
  • Seasonal events (pumpkin patches, corn mazes)
  • Educational programs, including youth summer and afterschool programs

• • Wedding venues are becoming increasingly popular, however the time and cost required to gain approval from local municipalities can be an obstacle.
  • Farm-to-table events, which can often make more money in a handful of events than a year’s worth of produce sales
  • Farm stays and short-term rentals, including educational or culinary programming
  • Wine tastings, such as Aquila’s Nest in Newtown, which was recently named “One of the most unique places in CT to propose”
  • Value-add products and crafts, such as lavender and floral wreaths 

Key Recommendations

The study provides actionable strategies to address these challenges and capitalize on opportunities:

1. Update and Streamline Agriculture Regulations:
   • Modernize municipal codes to reflect contemporary farming practices, including CEA and agritourism.
   • Simplify permitting processes for farm events, reducing barriers for farmers to host profitable activities.
2. Enhance Collaboration:
   • Establish working groups of planners, farmers, and conservationists to share best practices.
   • Improve communication between local, state, and federal agencies to unlock funding and resources.
3. Invest in Sustainability:
   • Support soil health initiatives and carbon sequestration projects.
   • Promote local food procurement in schools to reduce food miles and support regional farmers.

Spotlight on Agritourism

Agritourism is emerging as a vital lifeline for small and medium-sized farms. With over 80% of survey respondents visiting a local farm in the past year, there is clear demand for on-farm experiences. However, the study points out that outdated regulations often stymie these efforts. For example, strict parking and bathroom requirements can deter smaller farms from hosting events.

A Vision for the Future

The study’s recommendations are not merely theoretical. By implementing streamlined regulations, fostering collaboration, and investing in sustainability, Western Connecticut’s agricultural sector can thrive. Imagine a region where local farms not only survive but flourish, offering fresh produce, vibrant community events, and sustainable practices that inspire future generations.

Western Connecticut’s journey to agricultural resilience is a shared endeavor. Whether you’re a policymaker, farmer, or local resident, there’s a role for everyone in cultivating a sustainable and prosperous future.

To learn more about the Regional Agriculture Farm Viability Study and its findings, visit WestCOG’s website.

Want to strengthen your region’s agricultural sector? Agritecture Consulting can help with tailored strategies and expert guidance. Get in touch today!