Welcome to Vermont News

 Vermont is a state in the **New England** region of the northeastern United States, officially known as the **Green Mountain State**. It became the **14th state** on March 4, 1791, after existing as an independent republic (the Vermont Republic) following the American Revolution. With a population of approximately **648,000** (as of mid-2024 estimates; recent figures show slight fluctuations and overall slow/negative growth trends into 2025–2026), it is the **second-least populous** U.S. state and ranks 43rd in land area at about 9,217 square miles. Its capital, **Montpelier**, is the least populous state capital in the country.

### Geography and Climate

Vermont is bordered by **Quebec, Canada** to the north, **New Hampshire** to the east (separated mostly by the Connecticut River), **Massachusetts** to the south, and **New York** to the west (with Lake Champlain forming much of the boundary). The **Green Mountains** run north-south through the center, giving the state its name and a rugged, hilly terrain with dense forests (nearly 80% forested), valleys, and lakes. Highest point is **Mount Mansfield** (4,393 feet). The climate is humid continental—cold, snowy winters ideal for skiing and maple sugaring, and mild summers. This supports abundant outdoor recreation, fall foliage, and agriculture in the fertile Champlain Valley.

Major cities/towns include:

- **Burlington** — the largest city (often called the "Queen City"), on Lake Champlain, home to the University of Vermont.

- **South Burlington**, **Rutland**, **Essex Junction**, and **Barre** (known for granite).

The state has no large metropolitan areas and emphasizes small-town charm with white church steeples, village greens, and covered bridges.

### History

Indigenous Abenaki and other Algonquian peoples inhabited the region for millennia. European settlement increased in the 1700s amid disputes between New York and New Hampshire claims. Vermonters declared independence in 1777, establishing a republic with progressive elements (early abolition of slavery). It joined the Union as the first new state after the original 13. The 19th century brought dairy farming, granite/quarry industries, and manufacturing. Vermont has a long tradition of independence and progressivism, including early support for civil rights and environmental protection.

### Culture and Famous For

Vermont embodies a quintessential New England rural idyll with a strong progressive, community-oriented ethos:

- **Nicknames**: **Green Mountain State** (official); also associated with maple syrup, skiing, and dairy.

- **Food and Drink** — Produces about 50% of U.S. maple syrup; famous for artisanal cheeses, craft beer, cider, and farm-to-table fare. Ben & Jerry's ice cream originated here.

- **Outdoors** — World-class skiing/snowboarding (resorts like Stowe, Killington), hiking (Long Trail, Green Mountains), fall foliage, Lake Champlain boating/fishing, and biking.

- **Other** — Covered bridges, folk arts, town meetings (direct democracy), and a reputation for environmentalism (99.9% renewable electricity). It's one of the least religiously observant and least racially diverse states, with a "live and let live" vibe blending Yankee independence and modern progressivism.

- Sports and events include University of Vermont Catamounts, minor league teams, and festivals celebrating maple, cheese, and music.

The culture prioritizes sustainability, localism, and quality of life in a "small is beautiful" setting.

### Economy

Vermont has a small, diversified economy (GDP ranks last nationally, but per capita is higher):

- **Agriculture** — Dairy, maple syrup, apples, and specialty foods.

- **Manufacturing** — Electronics, machinery, and food processing.

- **Tourism** — Major driver, drawing visitors for scenery, skiing, and rural charm.

- **Other** — Education/health services, renewable energy, and small businesses.

Challenges include high costs of living, an aging population, workforce shortages, housing constraints, and slow economic momentum (ranked low in some competitiveness metrics). Efforts focus on affordability, growth, and diversification.

### Government and Current Notes (as of March 2026)

- **Governor**: Phil Scott (Republican), serving multiple terms; known for pragmatic, fiscally conservative approach in a generally Democratic-leaning state.

- Vermont has a citizen legislature (part-time) with a bicameral General Assembly. The 2025–2026 session is underway, with focus on the state budget (House recently advanced a FY2027 plan close to the governor’s proposal), education reform, affordability, public safety, housing, and workforce issues. Governor Scott has emphasized fiscal discipline without broad tax increases, while addressing demographic pressures like an aging population and labor shortages. The 2026 gubernatorial election is upcoming in November.

Topics include balancing spending growth, economic resilience, and long-term population goals (some visions aim for significant increases in working-age residents and housing).

For visitors, **VermontVacation.com** offers guides to regions, fall foliage drives, ski resorts, farm stays, craft trails, and charming towns. Whether you're into leaf-peeping, maple sugar houses, hiking the mountains, or exploring Burlington's waterfront and arts scene, Vermont delivers peaceful, scenic escapes with authentic small-town and rural character.