Farm Credit East recently supported an independent study by Dr. Rigoberto Lopez of the University of Connecticut (see page 25 for full profile) to quantitatively estimate the multiplier impact of Northeast agricultural production on the larger economy. This report presents those findings as an instructional resource for government, economic development agencies and our nonfarm neighbors to truly appreciate the economic and community benefits of successful, profitable agricultural producers. The purpose of this report is to ascertain and document the importance of agriculture and related industries to the Northeast economy. Natural resource-based businesses like farming, fishing and forestry have been important to the region since colonial times, when they formed the backbone of the economy. Today, while the economy and society have changed a great deal, agriculture remains vital to the region.