February 2024 NEwsletter
Goodbye February, Hello March!
As a Sussex County Commissioner, it's been a true blessing and an honor to serve our beloved community. As we step into March, let's reflect on some highlights from the previous month of February.
Considerable progress has been achieved towards the goal set forth at the January 1st Reorganization Meeting to support agricultural programs at Sussex County Community College and Technical School. Below outlines the advancements made:
Researched HR Bill 3425, known as the "Community College Agriculture Advancement Act of 2023." This bill aims to amend the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977, providing grants to improve community college agriculture and natural resources programs.
Met with both CD-5 and CD-7 US Congressional Representatives to introduce and discuss HR Bill 3425, resulting in their support and co-sponsorship.
Attended the Sussex County Board of Agriculture meeting with SCCC President Jon Conolly, engaging in a productive discussion on revitalizing agricultural programs at SCCC with local farmers.
Proposed upgrading SCCC’s hydroponics to aquaponics, integrating regenerative agriculture practices and aquaculture into the curriculum.
Notably, an aquaponic system could be used to supply the culinary institute, potentially reducing their operational costs.
The Farmland Preservation Revitalization Tour Continues: This tour serves as a direct outreach initiative on my behalf to engage with communities and reinforce our commitment to preserving Sussex County's rich agricultural heritage. Throughout February, I've spoken to the following municipality boards and committees to collaborate on this effort:
Frankford Township's Open Space Committee
Stillwater Township’s Committee
Sparta Township’s Environmental Commission
Byram's Open Space Committee Meeting
Moving forward, although the HR Bill 3425’s passage is not guaranteed, there is optimism that this bill may be incorporated into the Farm Bill of 2023, though its status is still pending. I am committed to keeping you updated on any progress and will continue collaborating with the local agriculture community to develop ideas that benefit both SCCC and Sussex County. Thank you for your ongoing support, and I am enthusiastic about the journey ahead.
Sincerely,
Jack DeGroot