State Legislators Applaud $10,000 Farm Transition Grant Awarded to Shelton Company

Hartford – State Senator Kevin C. Kelly (R-21) and State Representatives Jason Perillo (R-113) and Larry Miller (R-122) applauded the decision to award a $10,000 Farm Transition Grant to the Golden Oyster Company of Shelton on Wednesday, April 17th.

“Connecticut’s agricultural sector has enormous untapped potential,” said Governor Malloy. “The investments we are announcing today in small farms and our Regional Market are a clear sign that we can both preserve our agricultural heritage and help it expand and create jobs.”

The competitive matching grant will help to cover half of the cost of constructing a new shellfish vessel. The Golden Oyster Company project is expected to cost $20,000.

“The Connecticut oyster industry is one of the best in the world and support for our state’s agricultural resources makes good sense,” said Senator Kelly. “While we often support manufacturing and other industries, our farms provide local families with income, jobs and good quality food. In recent years, the legislature has taken steps to improve water quality and encourage economic growth. This investment will help the Golden Oyster Company to build a new shellfish vessel and support local jobs in the aquaculture industry.”

The grant was one of several that aim to expand Connecticut’s $3.5 billion agricultural industry. The investments are being made through the state Department of Agriculture’s Farm Transition Grant and Farm Viability Grant programs and will assist farms, agricultural nonprofits and municipalities increase production, promote Connecticut Grown products and create local jobs.

“The Golden Oyster Company is a good local company and this grant will be a boost to the local economy,” said Rep. Perillo. “This is an investment in the future of our region.”

“Connecticut has a great tradition in the oyster business and I am pleased to see the Golden Oyster Company, one of Shelton’s own, receive this funding,” said Rep. Miller. “This is an essential investment in agriculture that will mean jobs.”

For more information, please visit the state Department of Agriculture website at www.CTGrown.gov.