Gov. Phil Scott announces creation of Future of Vermont Agriculture commission

For Immediate Release
Friday, February 19, 2021

Media Contact
Jason Maulucci, Office of the Governor
802-636-7019 | jason.maulucci@vermont.gov

MONTPELIER, Vt. — Gov. Phil Scott has issued an executive order creating the Governor’s Commission on the Future of Vermont Agriculture to study and strategize how best to grow agriculture in the Green Mountain State.

The Commission’s charge will focus on ensuring the viability and adaptability of this sector, including recommendations for more cross-sector collaboration, increasing production and promotion, reducing barriers to entry and increasing diversity within the sector, and continued progress on environmental issues.

“The pandemic has further emphasized how important agriculture is to Vermonters and highlighted gaps in our food system. So, as we recover, we must continue to advocate for investing in Vermont communities and the work of the people who make their living off the land,” said Governor Scott. “This Commission will examine issues within agriculture — from farm to table — and deliver recommendations on how to chart a path forward for agricultural commerce in our state.”

The Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (AAFM) and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) will lead the commission, co-chaired by AAFM Secretary Anson Tebbetts and ACCD Secretary Lindsay Kurrle.

“This commission will lead to economic development in the agricultural sectors by helping farmers, producers and businesses create new markets and new jobs,” said AAFM Secretary Tebbetts. “It’s important we do this work today and for future generations.”

“Developing the future of commerce for the agriculture sector is critical to our economic recovery. As we look to grow our economy, recruit new residents and businesses to the state, and build a better future for all Vermonters, we must ensure our agriculture sector remains nimble and innovative both in the long and short-term,” said ACCD Secretary Kurrle.

Commission members have not been appointed yet. Members will represent several sectors including maple, dairy and experts in Vermont’s food systems, as well as those with expertise in environmental and land use issues. The Commission will deliver a report to the Governor in November 2021.

View the Executive Order here.

Image courtesy of Vermont Agency of Agriculture

5 thoughts on “Gov. Phil Scott announces creation of Future of Vermont Agriculture commission

  1. Instead of just leaving it at “Vermonters,” he has to slip in the WOKE, unnecessary language to appease the WOKE legislators:
    WHEREAS, Vermont agriculture is a principal economic driver for our rural communities and is essential to feeding Vermont’s residents, building Vermont’s economy, employing Vermonters, and attracting visitors; (okay, but…..)
    and WHEREAS,Vermont agriculture can play an important role in welcoming farmers, food processors and entrepreneurs,and offering opportunities to people who are black or indigenous or people of color…..
    I don’t understand the addition of that phrase above. It’s racist to say that these opportunities are for people of a certain race instead of just saying “people.” It’s also insulting to imply that these are the jobs for them.

  2. Phil Scott could accomplish all these goals by simply doing one sweeping E.O. – DEREGULATE ALL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS!!!

    Milk, cheese, meat and all other Farm To Market goods that Homesteaders can produce and sell to their neighbors or trade with anyone that wishes.

    Also, I would just like to say to Phil Scott – Stay the hell off my property with your anti American, communist and socialist centralizing policies!!

  3. Another commission on top of many commissions. Can’t they think and act on their own? But that would save money of which they are allergic to. Everything in Montpelier is a one way street, all down. We need intelligence testing before anyone runs for government. Especially know the Constitutions, Fed and State.

  4. Here is the real reason….as well as those with expertise in environmental and land use issues.

    Wouldn’t you make them all people from agriculture? Isnt’ that your goal? Aren’t they the experts?

    Dairy and Maple? Why are you going to study those? Because one needs no help and the state would probably like to run what dairy we have out of business.

    Read between the lines, see what they do, not what they say.

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