Find tools used by communities to permanently protect farm and ranch land and to reduce the conversion of agricultural land to other uses. Learn about conservation policies and programs to support agricultural landowners in their role as stewards of land and water resources, and how to create policies that protect local agriculture.
Local Programs and Policies
Protect Farm and Ranch Land
Communities interested in planning a future for farming typically identify priority farming areas with productive agricultural land and clusters of active operations. Then they steer growth away from these places, encourage more efficient land use in areas earmarked for growth and to provide mechanisms for permanent protection. Together, these strategies help ensure that there are blocks of farmland that can support a range of farm businesses.
Protect Farm and Ranch LandEncourage On-Farm Conservation
Agriculture and food production rely on natural resources, and sound stewardship of these resources sustains community health and prosperity. Learn about the resources available to help farmers, landowners, and communities incorporate conservation practices into their land management.
Encourage On-Farm ConservationSupport Farm Viability
Agriculture is an industry as well as a land use. It is critical that farms receive the marketing and economic development assistance that other local industries receive. But plans for agriculture must consider the vitality of the entire sector, not just individual operations. Farms and ranches rely upon a range of vital ancillary businesses. Sustaining agriculturally related businesses–from lenders to veterinarians and farm equipment dealers–is part of the necessary infrastructure for agriculture.
Support Farm Viability