DeLauro Applauds $600,000 USDA Grant for CT DEEP

Funding Will Increase Public Access to Private Farms and Forests across the State

NEW HAVEN, CT—Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) today applauded the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s announcement that the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has won a $612,500 grant under the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentives Program. DeLauro is a member of the subcommittee responsible for funding USDA, and served as the Chairwoman of that subcommittee from 2007-2010.

“This grant will help more Connecticut residents and visitors enjoy our state’s natural beauty, and provide more recreational opportunities. Congratulations to Commissioner Rob Klee on winning this very competitive award. I strongly encourage eligible farmers across the state to consider becoming a part of this program.”

Connecticut’s award is part of a total of $20 million that USDA awarded to 15 state agencies to improve and increase wildlife habitat and public access for recreational opportunities on privately-owned and operated farm, ranch and forest lands. More information about the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentives Program can be found at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/programs/farmbill/?cid=stelprdb1242739.

Farmers will be able to apply to DEEP to extend existing lease agreements or begin participation for the first time.

The other states winning awards are: Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.


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