

This allows us to preserve the rural character of our town that we all cherish. The culture of Easton has always placed farms front and center and we are happy to partner with state and federal programs to continue to do so. “ We are thrilled in Easton to be recognized for our efforts to preserve our farms. This project is an excellent example of many farmland preservation partners coming together to work in fierce cooperation to protect one of Easton’s historic farms.

The farm was protected using funding from USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Services, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, Connecticut Farmland Trust and the Town of Easton. The protection of Lakeview Orchards was possible because of committed Easton volunteers including members of the Easton Agricultural Commission, the Town Conservation Commission, the Board of Finance, and Board of Selectmen who worked together to ensure this farm is protected in perpetuity. This project was completed in June of 2021. The Town of Easton, Connecticut was presented the pathfinder award for the preservation of Lakeview Orchards, a historic 37-acre farm in town. I am grateful for the trust the region’s farmers and growers have placed in me by sharing their experiences and allowing me to share those stories with the public.

“I’m honored to receive the 2021 Pathfinder Education/Communication Leader Award from WLA as I so value the Alliance’s work advocating for and protecting Connecticut’s farmland. She is a passionate advocate for local food and, as noted on her website, she “writes stories about people and how food, farms, and growers create community, connections, and shared history.” These stories were featured in the Boston Globe.
#2021 path finder series#
Most recently, she published a series of articles highlighting the challenges of farming across New England. Her work focused on farm, food, and cooking. Jocelyn Ruggiero is a writer from Madison, CT. Chelsea Gazillo, American Farmland Trust New England Policy Manager and Working Lands Alliance Director. On behalf of the WLA Steering Committee, a HUGE Congratulations to Jocelyn Ruggiero and the Town of Easton for their dedication and commitment to advancing local agriculture. This year’s Pathfinder award winners exemplify excellence in their efforts to promote CT Grown agriculture and protect farmland in their local communities. “The Working Lands Alliance Pathfinder Award is the CT Grammy for farmland protection and other efforts that ensure our agriculture sector continues for generations to come. The award includes three distinct categories: Outstanding Individual Award, Outstanding Group Award, and Education and Communication Award. The Pathfinder Award was created in 2003 to celebrate individuals and groups who have exemplified leadership in farmland protection over the past year. Jocelyn Ruggiero as Outstanding Communicator and The Town of Easton, Connecticut as Outstanding Group. We are confident that, in doing so, each of these talented students will provide leadership and direction for others in the future.įor these reasons, we are very proud to present the 39 th annual Pathfinder High School Scholarship Awards Program for the 2021-2022 school year.We are excited to announce the two recipients of the 2021 Pathfinder Award. The astrolabe is the symbol of the Pathfinder Scholarship. This ancient nautical device was used to help sailors navigate by the stars, just as the knowledge gained from a good education will help our nominees chart the courses for their own lives. This basic tenet applies not only to the individual but also to the community. A community-led by people with foresight and the ability to think through problems – the fruits of a good education – is one that will prosper through the best and worst of times. In a complex and rapidly changing world, a good education is the best way to ensure a life of excellence, growth, and creativity. Students do not self-apply but are selected and nominated by their schools. It is also one of the most equitable and democratic, extending eligibility to all public and private high schools in Palm Beach and Martin counties.Įach year, scholarships are awarded to 54 of the best and brightest high school seniors in the two-county area. Pathfinders is one of the largest and most comprehensive high school scholarship programs in the state.
