Politics & Government

Hurlburt to be Appointed to Federal Agriculture Post

Courtney, Blumenthal and Murphy made the announcement this week.

Maybe it was no coincidence that Bryan Hurlburt was once presented a giant Connecticut-grown cauliflower at the State Capitol. 

It was a gesture from the Working Lands Alliance. 
Well, there has now been a gesture from Washington - a call for Hurlburt to work the land. 

In a joint statement, U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, and U.S. Rep Joseph Courtney said President Obama will be appointing Hurlburt, the current state representative in the 53rd district, as the the Farm Service Agency's executive director for Connecticut.  

"This is an excellent opportunity to continue public service with a focus on growing and expanding agriculture jobs and opportunities on behalf of the Obama Administration," Hurlburt said in a letter to supporters. "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and is still an opportunity to make a positive difference in our community."

Hurlburt currently represents the towns of Ashford, Tolland and Willington and is in his fourth term. According to a news release, Hurlburt is expected to resign his position as a state representative on April 19 and begin his new role on April 22. 
He said his service was a team effort in the district. 

"No campaign is a one man or woman show and I am the first to acknowledge that," he said in his e-mail. "Together we have been able to make a positive difference in our state and I cannot thank you enough."

The Farm Service Agency is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and oversees federal farm loan programs, conservation programs, small business development, disaster relief, crop insurance programs and other subsidies.

The Farm Service Agency has offices in all 50 states that coordinate the dispensing of grants and loans to state agricultural businesses and the dissemination of information on the USDA’s agricultural policies. 

“In 2009, when dairy prices crashed to historic lows, Bryan’s leadership enacting an emergency dairy subsidy literally rescued Connecticut’s dairy industry from extinction,” Courtney said. “His proven record and knowledge of Connecticut agriculture make him uniquely well-suited for the mission of the FSA office.”

Murphy called Hurlburt, "a champion for Connecticut’s agricultural community for years – especially the state’s dairy industry."

Said, Blumenthal, "Bryan was widely recommended as the most qualified and capable candidate for the position and I am confident he will be a strong and effective advocate for Connecticut farmers.”   

Connecticut’s USDA office is located on Merrow Road - Route 195 - Tolland. Hurlburt said because of that, he will continue to be active in the community.

"I have had the good fortune of working alongside Representative Hurlburt and farmers on many issues critical to the viability of local farms and growing Connecticut agriculture. His energy and dedication have made a positive difference and make him an excellent choice for this important position,” Connecticut Department of Agriculture Commissioner and search committee member Stephen Reviczky said. 


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