Rep. Foncello Visits UConn Extension Center In Bethel

BETHEL, CT — State Rep. Martin Foncello (R-107) recently toured the UConn Extension - Fairfield County Extension Center in Bethel’s Stony Hill neighborhood, where he met with coordinators overseeing programs in horticulture, nutrition, urban agriculture, and youth development.

During his visit, Foncello learned more about the center’s Master Gardener Program, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program, Urban Agriculture initiatives, and 4-H Youth Development. He noted the broad scope of services the center provides to the public, from answering plant-related questions and distributing seeds to offering soil and insect testing.

"The center is so much more than it looks from the outside," Foncello said. "Residents can come in with questions about their plants, to get seeds for their gardens, and have soil or insects tested. The staff also goes out to the schools to run various programs."

Foncello highlighted seasonal concerns raised by the staff, including damage to rhododendrons due to winter weather and the presence of invasive emerald ash borers affecting local trees.

The nutrition program focuses on teaching children and families about healthy eating through food demonstrations and workshops, while urban agriculture efforts encourage food-growing options for individuals without outdoor space. Foncello praised the initiative, citing his own urban upbringing.

The 4-H program serves children ages 5 to 19 and includes after-school activities related to science, technology, health, and agriculture. Foncello also met with interns from Western Connecticut State University working on urban gardening and nutrition efforts at the center.