 Connecticut protected a record amount of farmland in 2023, securing 1,560 acres and 23 parcels, the most since the Farmland Preservation Program began back in 1978. The state invested $10 million in conservation efforts, partnering with the USDA and local nonprofits. Connecticut State Police responded to nearly 3,000 calls over the July 4th holiday, including 157 motor vehicle crashes. One was fatal.