Rep. Foncello Tours UConn Extension – Fairfield County Extension Center in Bethel

Bethel, CT. – State Representative Martin Foncello (R-107) recently visited with staff at the UConn Extension Fairfield County Extension Center in the Stony Hill neighborhood of Bethel. He met with the program coordinators for their Master Gardner Program, Nutrition Education Programs, Urban Agriculture, and 4-H Youth Development program.

“The center is so much more than it looks from the outside. Residents can come in with questions about their plants, to get seeds for their gardens, and have soil or insects tested. The staff also goes out to the schools to run various programs,” said Rep. Foncello.

The Master Gardener Program involves horticulture training in a wide range of related topics.

“What was interesting was hearing about how many people came in asking about their rhododendrons. This winter was different than in the recent past and so many people experienced changes in their plants. There are also invasive Emerald Ash Borers wreaking havoc on trees in the area,” noted Foncello.

The UConn Extension Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program teaches kids about new foods, the importance of a balanced diet, and easy recipes for homemade meals and snacks. The program educators work with food pantries, community organizations and schools to help families learn more about nutrition and health through food demos and workshops.

“I was very interested to hear about the urban agriculture initiatives since I grew up in Bridgeport and think this is useful information for people who don’t have a yard or don’t have a lot of space. There are so many things that people can grow right on their windowsill,” said Rep. Foncello.

4-H members are aged 5 to 19 and participate in after school programs involving plants and animals, healthy lifestyles, and science and technology among other topics.

Rep. Foncello also met with two interns from Western Connecticut State University who are focusing on urban gardening and nutrition services at UConn Extension Center.

###