By Anson Tebbetts - Vermont Secretary of Agriculture
October 1, 2023 - As we travel into deep fall, we hope many are on the road to recovery after one of the most challenging summers in memory. The floods and severe weather created havoc for our farmers, producers, businesses, renters, and homeowners. Our farmer impact survey found that more than $16 million dollars were recorded in losses impacting more than 27,000 acres. It will be a challenging fall and winter for many, but Vermonters are committed to rebuilding.
As we began to recover, we worked with many state and private partners to show that Vermont is recovering post-flood, is open for business, and is strong. We used many Vermont voices to invite visitors to come to the Green Mountains to witness and experience Vermont’s working landscape. This campaign invited all to explore and stay in Vermont. We have so much to share with the visitors including quiet spaces, beautiful hills, valleys, and villages. Did we mention the food and drink? The cows, the sheep, the goats? Vermont’s cheeses, chocolates, maple, beers, wines, and spirits are world class. We are grateful to all our farmers, producers and entrepreneurs who make this possible.
Vermont with its small population relies on visitors to support its economy. They come here because of Vermont’s farms and recreation. Please continue to spread the word that Vermont is open and ready to serve up the finest stay whether it’s driving to Vermont for the day to maybe it’s a weekend or an entire week or two. There is so much Vermont can offer.
Vermonters have gone through so much in the last three years, but they are “darn tough” and “Vermont strong.” Thank you for supporting your neighbors during this difficult stretch in our history. And thank you for welcoming visitors in every season. Wishing you a safe and quiet fall before the snow flies.
Anson Tebbetts
Secretary