A group of agricultural business people, representing Connecticut's major agricultural commodities and allied industries, working to raise the awareness, productivity and competitiveness of the state's agricultural businesses.

The cluster has brought together people involved with all aspects of the state's agriculture industry, including farmers, equipment dealers, insurance agencies and educators. We encourage anyone connected to our vibrant industry to become a member of the cluster.

In 2005, through a series of strategy sessions conducted by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, we identified many areas of importance to the state's farmers.

The most visible outcome of those meetings is our agritourism initiative. As a result, we have put together a marketing plan to help promote our members' farms to state residents. This plan includes a brochure program to get members' brochures into the state's welcome centers, a series of monthly press releases, and a monthly e-newsletter for consumers.

Connecticut's agriculture industry represents more than $2.2 billion in combined revenue and employs more than 228,000 part-time, full-time and seasonal workers.

Connecticut's agriculture industry is thriving. We intend to help it stay that way.