Programs and research

Explore Connecticut agriculture

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) studies plants, soil, water, and pests across the State. Our work helps protect public health, support farms, and reduce pest and disease risks.

Explore our programs and research:

Tick tracking and disease risk
Bed bug prevention and response
Pollinator health and protection
Chemical testing and regulation
Forest health and tree protection
Nursery and apiary inspection programs

Browse by program and find the information you need.

Stay informed about ticks and bed bugs

Find easy tips to spot risks, and ways to stop bites and infestations. Learn about safe pest control treatments in your area.

What should you know about ticks near you?

Find tick monitoring results for your area. Learn where ticks are found and how they spread. Get guidance on how to stay safe from tick bites and related diseases.

How to prevent and manage bed bugs?

Get tips to help prevent bed bugs and learn how to identify them early. Review safe treatment options for your home or building.

Find ways to protect bees and other pollinators

Bees, butterflies, and other species help plants grow and produce food. Many are in decline across Connecticut. We provide resources to help you take action:

Fact sheets on wild bees and monarchs
Five science-based steps to support these species
Guidance to create natural habitats in your yard or community
Tips for choosing plants that attract and feed local species

Learn how to support pollinators in Connecticut

Locations where CAES conducts its agricultural research

CAES has research farms and laboratories across CT. They support farming research, field testing, and public programs.

Explore our agricultural research at Lockwood Farm

We use the Hamden farm for research and field experiments. The site also hosts annual public events, such as Plant Science Day.

Learn about the research we do at the Griswold Research Center

In Griswold, we study grape diseases and biodiesel crops. We also focus on nematode control and invasive species.

Discover agricultural field studies at the Valley Laboratory

We conduct agricultural research and field studies at this farm in Windsor. The site supports ongoing plant and soil science work.

Pest and mosquito monitoring programs

Learn how CAES tracks pests and mosquitoes across Connecticut. These programs help find risks early and protect farms, forests, and public health.

Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey program

The Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS) program surveys for invasive plant pests. We check for insects, weeds, and diseases.

Find out how CAPS detect exotic pests

Mosquito trapping and arbovirus testing program

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) monitors mosquitoes across the State. We collect and test mosquitoes for viruses that can make people sick.

Learn about mosquito testing program

Get information on forest health and pests

We study changes in tree health and work to protect forests from insects, diseases, and other threats.

Get details on forest health programs

Learn how we study tree health across Connecticut. We track damage, study causes, and support actions that help keep forests strong and healthy.

Learn about pests that affect trees

Explore insects and pests that affect Connecticut forests. We track where pests appear and how they can impact trees and the environment.

Analytical chemistry for food and environmental safety in the State

The Department of Analytical Chemistry tests for pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants in CT. We analyze water, soil, and environmental samples in our laboratory. This protects public health. It also supports safe food and a clean environment for all residents.

Explore our laboratory and testing services

Learn about inspections and registrations

Find licensing information for arborists, beekeepers, nurseries, and pesticide applicators. Help prevent pest spread by moving plants and insects safely.

For information on state and federal law

Explore apiary tools and resources

Find simple tools to help you care for bees and register your apiary. Use these resources to follow State rules and support healthy bee hives.

Follow steps to register your apiary

Watch a short video to learn how to care for honeybees and how to register your apiary in CT. This resource gives simple steps to help you get started.

Get the registration form for your apiary (PDF)

Download the form you need to register your honeybees in CT. Use this form to follow State rules and keep your apiary up to date.

Find the resources you need

Contact our staff, join an upcoming event, or explore programs and services that support our community.