Senate Leadership
March 13, 2006
Williams Testifies in Support of Agriculture, UConn Pest Management Bills
Senate President Pro Tem Donald E. Williams (D-Brooklyn) today testified in front of the legislature's Environment Committee in support of three bills -farmland preservation, marketing of Connecticut-grown agricultural products and UConn's Integrated Pest Management program--which are of specific interest to the people in the eight-town region Sen. Williams serves.
"I have long been a proponent of farmland preservation and Connecticut-grown agricultural products," Sen. Williams explained. "In many cases, there's no reason to purchase out-of-state produce when delicious, healthy and locally-grown fruits and vegetables are available right in our own backyards. It's important to preserve farmland for those who wish to utilize the land and equally as important to spread the word about the produce that is grown all over the state."
The UConn Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program will address pest control through the safest and most effective manner possible. This is crucial for crop productivity and quality, addressing public health concerns, and sustaining economic viability. This bill proposes allocating $500,000 dollars for the program and requires additional IPM training for farmers, an educational program for growers and the public and diagnostic research.
"This program will enable farmers and pest control specialists alike to help control pests of all different kinds, while keeping in mind the environment and the crops, as well," Sen. Williams said. "We're lucky to have a world-class university like UConn so near to us, and so willing to help the community in which it is situated."
Sen. Williams serves the 29th Senatorial District, which includes the communities of Brooklyn, Canterbury, Killingly, Mansfield, Putnam, Scotland, Thompson and Windham.
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Senator Williams’ Larry Cook |
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Senator Looney’s Larry Cook |
