ROCKY HILL, CT. (WFSB) - For years it was an eyesore in Rocky Hill.
But now, a blighted property has been transformed into a pick your own strawberry farm and much more.
“This is a unique parcel because it was in the Straska family for many, many generations. And in 2019 the community got together and decided that we wanted to purchase this particular parcel to ensure farming in perpetuity,” said Rocky Hill Mayor Lisa Marotta.
People in town voted to preserve the 84.5-acre property by buying it for $7.2 million.
Meetings, renderings and public input followed.
“A lot of conversation. A lot of conversations about people’s values, about their anticipations, their expectations, and how are we using their taxpayer dollars wisely,” continued Marotta.
That vision to enjoy the fruits of their labor came to life.
Renamed the Rocky Hill Community Farm, a pick-your-own strawberry experience was just launched.
It was possible thanks to grants and local farmers like Billy Collins and his son, Andrew, from Fair Weather Growers.
“Seeing the people come up and be excited about picking strawberries and the kids excited about all of it…it’s actually a great feeling,” said Billy.
“It’s good to see… a little more land we can use. There’s not a land of farmland near us anymore so a little bit more is always a help,” said Andrew.
Nicole Castelli had a splendid time picking her own fresh strawberries.
“It was so fun. We loved it. We were just driving by and so we were like let’s stop by and get some strawberries on the way to the water park,” she said.
The best part is that it is just the beginning for the farm.
Plans are underway for a community garden, walking trails and educational programming in the newly built barn.
“These strawberry fields are not just a pick your own experience it’s wholesome family fun…it’s showing our support of local farming and it’s bringing agritourism to another level in rocky hill,” said Marotta.
The farm will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with weather and field conditions permitting.
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