UConn Extension hosted a drought listen- ing session for farmers at the Capitol and documented their concerns and ideas in a clear way that was communicated with the state Department of Agriculture and NRCS. Connecticut developed a state water plan over the last few years. Mike O’Neill, associate dean for outreach and associate director of UConn Extension, served on the planning committee and represented agriculture in the plan’s development. The next step for the Agriculture Water Security Project was helping farmers prepare drought plans and connecting them to financial assistance from NRCS. A total of 10 projects were provided financial assistance related to developing more robust and secure irrigation infrastructure. Projects included new wells and buried irrigation pipeline. “We helped a couple of farms access funding to install wells, and it continues to be rewarding to see how pleased the farm- ers are to have the new resources,” Angie mentions. The Extension project continues to offer irrigation and drought planning resources for farmers. “I’m excited to see farmers living out their values around land stewardship and food production in thoughtful and creative ways. There is always something that people can do, or a small action they can take to be a mindful citizen,” Angie says. “There is always more to learn, for farmers and residents. For instance, knowing how much water it took to make your jeans or plastic food packaging – it’s important for all of us to continue our learning around the impacts of our actions and consumption.” Connecticut is no longer in a drought. But the work of stewardship continues. Angie’s goal is to prepare farmers and residents before water resources become a crisis. By encouraging everyone to simplify, we hone in on the essential needs and ensure successful growing seasons in the years to come. This project is sponsored by USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Award identification 68-1106-15-05. “I serve as a resource for farmers, gardeners, and homeowners to guide and advise them on water conservation and drought preparedness and management.” 40 Gallon Challenge Connecticut residents are invited to join the 40 Gallon Challenge and take on new practices to increase water conservation. The 40 Gallon Challenge is a national call for residents and businesses to reduce water use on average by 40 gallons per person, per day. As a participant in the challenge, one commits to taking on additional indoor and outdoor water savings activities. Impactful actions to choose from include: installing a “smart irrigation controller” that adjusts for temperature and precipitation (40 gallons daily savings), replacing an old, non-efficient shower head with low flow shower head (20 gallons daily savings), and fixing a leaky toilet and faucet (45 gallons daily savings). Materials were developed and promoted by Angie Harris and Casey Lambert, a stu- dent intern, that quantified water saved by various actions residents can take in their home and yard. Participation is open to residents and businesses of all states and counties. To sign up, visit 40gallonchallenge.org and fill out a pledge card. 2017 HIGHLIGHTS OF EXTENSION 29 TOOLS & TRAINING