Attendees invited to sample Rhode Island-grown food products
To recognize the state’s $100 million agriculture industry, the state Department of Environmental Management will host a Rhode Island Agriculture Day program at the State House on Wednesday, May 17.
The event will showcase Rhode Island’s agriculture industry and highlight the economic impact it has on the state. Farming is considered an integral part of the state’s economy and provides a contribution to Rhode Island’s open space and quality of life, the DEM said.
Beyond the purchase of fresh produce and nursery stock, agriculture also contributes to tourism, open space, landscaping businesses and a variety of food-related industries.
Rhode Island has 858 farms, mostly family-run, which occupy 61,000 acres. In a national survey in recent years, Rhode Island was ranked No. 2 in the country for direct marketing sales of fruits and vegetables from farms to consumers, on a per farm basis. Rhode Island Agriculture Day will highlight ongoing initiatives to maintain the viability of farming in Rhode Island, including locally produced milk, farmers’ markets and agri-tourism programs.
As part of the day’s festivities, 27 exhibitors will host displays in the State House Rotunda from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Exhibitors include farms and land trusts, as well as government and nonprofit agencies that work with farmers. Coordinated by DEM’s Division of Agriculture, the exhibits will highlight Rhode Island agriculture and the many organizations that collectively participate in its viability.
Several exhibitors will offer food samples, such as oysters from the Ocean State Aquaculture Association; johnnycakes from the Kenyon Corn Meal Co.; egg sandwiches and Del’s liquid lemonade from Little Rhody Foods; Rhody Fresh milk from the R.I. Dairy Farms Cooperative; stuffed quahogs and mushrooms from Dave’s Marketplace; and Arruda Dairy’s flavored milk and cookies from the R.I. State Grange. Also, maple syrup from Charlie’s Sugarhouse in Greene, cookies from Confreda Farms and Greenhouse in Cranston, and Cabot Cheese from Agri-Mark.
Several state officials are expected to attend the event. The speaking program will begin at 2 p.m. in the Governor’s State Room, and the exhibits will be on display through much of the day in the State House Rotunda.