Developing a system to manage agricultural byproducts

GOAL
• Develop a statewide initiative to ensure the effective, cost efficient and
environmentally sound use of agricultural byproducts.

IDEAS:
• Network across industries to incorporate and optimize all state "waste" (recycling)
• Invite university involvement to help develop solutions and technologies
• Encourage development of a new CT industry

HOW WILL THIS INITIATIVE BE ACHIEVED?
What needs to happen to get started?
• Conduct a survey to identify all byproducts available and determine which can
create value added products
• Determine what technologies are needed
• determine how to market the byproduct
• Form a working committee including Ag businesses, DEP, DECD, Council of Small
Towns, Council of Governments, Etc.
• Collaborate with other industry cluster groups (ie - plastics)

What resources are needed?
• Encourage funding solutions, such as federal grants

What problems/hurdles need to be overcome?
• Getting financial support and cooperation from individual businesses and
government agencies
• Collection and transportation of product
• Systems to handle waste products, including soiled materials

How will CAB gain support from individual CT Ag businesses?
• Workable models need to be developed to show how it works
• Education so the Ag businesses understand the value of participation

How will the initiative become self-sustaining?
• Create an environmentally sound and cost effective waste disposal system