Photo: Carl Stevens/WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — While Massachusetts is one of the smallest states in the country in terms of land mass, it is among the nation's top producers of agricultural products marketed directly to consumers.
That's according to Karen Schwalbe, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation.
She was joined by farmers and people associated with the agricultural community on Wednesday at the State House for Massachusetts Agriculture Day, a day that celebrates the industry's sustainability and contributions to the state's economy.
Schwalbe said Agriculture Day is an important opportunity that connects local farmers with their legislators. "Farmers are usually on their farm and not able to take a day and go to the State House and meet with their legislator. We provide that opportunity so that their voices can be heard at the State House."
She added that despite the state's diminutive size, farmers in the state produce a lot of food. "Massachusetts in the country is fifth in direct market sales, sales to the end-consumer," she said. "So, in spite of our small size, we have a mighty presence. Some of our best crop is our customers."
The day also featured food tables that carried an abundance of local crops and products for guests to enjoy that included oysters, cheese, cranberries, and maple sugar items.
WBZ NewsRadio's Carl Stevens (@CarlWBZ) reports.