Since 1999, Ohio has made headway in its farmland protection efforts with its popular Clean Ohio Fund, which set aside $25 million for the purchase of agricultural easements. More and more local governments are joining in with money, planning, zoning and Agricultural Security Areas to promote agriculture.

Despite the progress, surveys show a growing number of Ohioans are concerned about the loss of farmland. Agriculture not only generates more in local revenue than it provides in services, but it is a foundation of some local economies and has the potential to grow and create new jobs.

This guide provides an overview of private, state and federal programs that are available to Ohio landowners who want to pursue conservation options, improve profitability and the productivity of their land. The information is presented in four sections:

I. Farmland Protection: to save farmland for future generations
II. Farm Enterprise Development: to help farmers create profitable new farm activities
III. Land Conservation and Stewardship: to enhance wildlife and natural resources on private lands
IV. Resources: contact information for agencies and organizations to help landowners achieve their agricultural and conservation goals