Imagine you’re driving through the countryside, and you see vast fields of crops stretching as far as the eye can see. Have you ever wondered how those farmlands are managed and what rules govern what can be planted and grown? That’s where agriculture zones USA come in! This post will explore these important areas, breaking down the regulations and considerations surrounding them. You’ll learn the key aspects of these zones, what factors shape them, and why they’re so important for our food supply and the environment. By the end, you’ll have a much better idea of how agriculture zones USA work and why they matter.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the purpose and importance of agricultural zoning.
- Learn about the different types of agricultural zones found across the USA.
- Understand the regulations governing land use within these zones.
- Explore the economic and environmental impacts of agricultural zoning.
- Examine the role of local and federal government in managing agriculture zones.
- Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities within the system.
Understanding Agriculture Zones USA
Agricultural zoning is a system of land-use regulation designed to protect and promote agriculture. It involves designating specific areas of land primarily for farming and related activities. These zones limit or restrict non-agricultural uses, such as residential or commercial developments, to preserve farmland and encourage agricultural practices. The concept aims to maintain the long-term viability of agriculture in a region and ensure food security. It’s an important part of how we manage our land, balancing the needs of farmers with the growth of communities.
The Purpose of Agricultural Zoning
Agricultural zoning serves multiple purposes. The primary goal is to preserve farmland by preventing its conversion to other uses. By limiting development, zoning helps maintain large tracts of land suitable for farming, which are crucial for efficient agricultural production. Zoning also supports farming communities and their economies. It often includes provisions for various agricultural activities, such as crop cultivation, livestock raising, and agricultural processing. Furthermore, these zones can provide environmental benefits. By restricting development, they help conserve natural resources like water and soil, and can protect wildlife habitats.
- Preserving Farmland: Agricultural zoning protects land from non-agricultural development like housing or factories. This helps to maintain the amount of land available for farming, which is crucial for food production.
- Supporting Farming Communities: Agricultural zoning supports farmers by creating an environment where farming is encouraged and protected. This makes it more likely that people can continue to farm and pass their farms on to future generations.
- Conserving Natural Resources: Zoning often helps conserve natural resources by limiting development in environmentally sensitive areas, such as wetlands and watersheds. This benefits the environment and the community.
- Ensuring Food Security: By protecting farmland, agricultural zoning helps to ensure a reliable and stable food supply. This is particularly important in times of crisis or when global food prices fluctuate.
Protecting farmland is critical for long-term food security. Imagine a city where farms are continually replaced by houses. Over time, there will be less land for food production, making the community reliant on outside sources. Zoning helps prevent this loss by ensuring that suitable land remains available for farming. Protecting farmland also has benefits for the surrounding environment, as these areas often provide habitats for wildlife and help to conserve soil and water.
Farming communities are often the backbone of local economies, providing jobs and contributing to the tax base. When zoning regulations protect farming, they safeguard these economic advantages. They promote a sense of stability, encouraging farmers to invest in their farms and plan for the future. The regulations also provide for businesses that supply farms with resources and services, forming a local support network.
Sustainable agriculture is closely linked with the health of natural ecosystems. Zoning supports this by keeping farmland free of development. This helps preserve water quality by reducing runoff from paved surfaces, and it protects soil health by preventing erosion. Additionally, agricultural zones provide habitats for various animal species, boosting biodiversity. This helps to create a healthier environment for everyone.
Food security is essential for the wellbeing of a community. Zoning’s support of agriculture helps communities be less vulnerable to external disruptions. It allows communities to be more self-sufficient in food production. This local capacity reduces the need to depend on distant sources that may be vulnerable to price changes or supply chain problems.
Types of Agricultural Zones
Across the USA, agricultural zones vary depending on the local needs and conditions. Zoning regulations can be set at the county or even municipal level. There’s not a single, nationwide set of rules. However, various types of zones are generally recognized, each with its own set of permitted uses and restrictions. Some areas might focus on crop production, while others emphasize livestock farming or specialized agriculture, like vineyards or orchards. These zones often take into consideration factors like soil quality, water availability, and proximity to markets.
- Exclusive Agricultural Zoning: These zones are designed to keep the land primarily for agricultural use. They often place significant restrictions on non-farm development.
- Agricultural-Residential Zoning: This type allows for both farming and residential uses, but it generally gives priority to agriculture. Restrictions often limit the density of residential development.
- Specialized Agricultural Zones: These zones focus on particular types of agriculture, such as orchards, vineyards, or livestock operations. They are designed to accommodate the unique needs of these specialized agricultural activities.
- Agricultural Protection Zones: These zones may offer a balance between agriculture and other uses. They are often less restrictive than exclusive agricultural zones, but still aim to preserve farmland.
Exclusive agricultural zones typically permit only farming and related activities, such as farm stands and storage facilities. They may have minimum lot size requirements, keeping land from being divided into smaller parcels suitable for residential construction. This helps to maintain large tracts of farmland and prevent rural sprawl. These zones ensure that the primary use of the land is agriculture, providing farmers with a stable environment.
Agricultural-residential zones strike a balance between farmland preservation and residential needs. While farming is still the primary activity, residents can live in the area, often in houses that may be located on larger lots. The aim is to allow farmers to live close to their land and to provide opportunities for those who enjoy a rural lifestyle. Regulations help to balance the presence of residential and agricultural uses, often by controlling building density.
Specialized zones are created to encourage particular types of farming that may require unique conditions or have specific requirements. An area ideal for a vineyard will be different than one suitable for raising cattle. These zones often include specific regulations about irrigation systems, fencing, and waste management practices. This ensures that the specialized agricultural activity can thrive without conflict with other land uses.
Agricultural protection zones often allow a broader range of uses than exclusive zones, though still with a focus on agriculture. These may permit low-density residential development and some commercial activities. The main objective is to protect farmland while allowing for some flexibility. This type of zoning helps a community find a balance between its needs for farming and the need for new housing and other forms of development.
Regulations and Restrictions in Agricultural Zones
The regulations and restrictions in agriculture zones USA are diverse and vary based on local ordinances. They’re designed to maintain and protect agricultural activities while addressing concerns about environmental impact and land use conflicts. These regulations often specify permitted uses, minimum lot sizes, and setbacks, preventing the construction of buildings too close to property lines. They might also include rules about how farms can manage their operations, like controlling the use of pesticides and fertilizers. Rules can also address the disposal of waste products.
- Permitted Uses: Regulations define what activities are allowed within an agriculture zone. Primary uses typically include crop cultivation, livestock raising, and agricultural processing. Other uses may be permitted, often as accessory uses related to the primary agricultural activities.
- Minimum Lot Sizes: Zoning regulations often set minimum lot sizes. This prevents the division of farmland into smaller parcels that might be used for residential or commercial development.
- Setbacks and Building Restrictions: Setbacks specify how far buildings must be set back from property lines and roads. Building height limits and design standards also may apply.
- Environmental Regulations: Many agricultural zones include regulations to protect the environment. These may control the use of pesticides and fertilizers, require conservation practices, and restrict development in sensitive areas like wetlands.
Permitted uses are the core of agricultural zoning. They spell out which activities are allowed on the land. These typically involve growing crops, raising livestock, and processing agricultural products. The idea is to make sure land is used for agricultural purposes, and the regulations specify what is appropriate. They are set up to support and safeguard the agricultural economy. Regulations may also define accessory uses, such as farm stands or storage facilities.
Minimum lot sizes restrict the number of residential units that can be built on the property. These regulations are designed to keep large tracts of land available for farming. This keeps farming from being disrupted by non-agricultural development and prevents the land from being split up into smaller pieces. Larger lots help to maintain the agricultural character of the area, preventing urban sprawl and keeping land available for farming.
Setbacks, height restrictions, and design rules help manage how new buildings fit into an agricultural zone. These rules stop buildings from being too close to neighboring properties or roads and help manage how structures look, keeping them suitable for the agricultural setting. The restrictions also minimize conflicts between agricultural operations and neighboring residents. They help to maintain a rural character and protect agricultural activities.
Environmental regulations in agricultural zones aim to balance agricultural practices with environmental protection. These rules limit the use of chemicals to minimize water and soil pollution and make sure that farms use sustainable practices. They also protect natural areas such as wetlands and streams, making sure that agriculture supports overall environmental health. This balance helps to protect natural resources and encourages responsible farming practices.
Economic and Environmental Impacts of Agriculture Zones USA
Agricultural zoning significantly impacts both the economy and the environment. Economically, these zones provide stability for farmers and support the agricultural industry. They keep land values stable by limiting non-agricultural uses, and they help maintain a critical mass of farmland, supporting related businesses such as suppliers and processors. Environmentally, agricultural zoning helps to conserve natural resources and protect ecosystems. By limiting development, these zones help safeguard soil quality, water resources, and wildlife habitats.
Economic Benefits
The economic impacts of agricultural zoning are far-reaching. By protecting farmland, zoning helps keep agriculture a viable industry. Zoning helps create a stable environment for farmers and supports jobs in farming and related businesses. It also supports local economies by keeping agricultural land available for future agricultural development, making sure farming will continue for generations. These zones contribute to a steady food supply and promote economic health.
- Stable Land Values: Agricultural zoning often stabilizes land values. By restricting non-agricultural uses, the demand for farmland is maintained, which can support consistent land values for farmers.
- Support for the Agricultural Industry: Zoning supports the entire agricultural industry, including farmers, suppliers, processors, and distributors. Zoning also helps preserve the infrastructure needed for agriculture, like processing plants and distribution networks.
- Local Economic Growth: Agricultural zones can help stimulate local economic growth by supporting local farms and related businesses. Zoning helps to create opportunities for farmers to sell their products at local markets.
- Preservation of Rural Character: Agricultural zoning helps to maintain the rural character of an area, which can be an economic asset by attracting tourists and supporting local businesses. Zoning also helps maintain natural beauty, attracting visitors.
Stable land values give farmers confidence to make long-term investments in their operations. When farmland is threatened by development, its value can fluctuate wildly, leading to financial instability for farmers. Zoning reduces this risk by restricting the conversion of farmland to non-agricultural uses. This helps farmers secure loans and makes it easier for them to plan for the future. Consistent land values also attract new farmers to the area.
When zoning preserves farmland, it protects the whole agricultural ecosystem. By ensuring that farmland remains available, zoning supports suppliers, processing facilities, and the distribution networks necessary to get food to consumers. This helps to create jobs and supports the financial health of businesses that depend on agriculture. Zoning also encourages the development of related services, such as agricultural technology and financial services.
Local farms can supply fresh produce to restaurants, farmers markets, and grocery stores. This not only supports farmers but can also draw customers to the area. It strengthens the community’s economy and provides jobs in food production, distribution, and sales. It can help establish a strong local food system. When agriculture prospers, it boosts the community’s overall economic health.
The rural landscape is a major draw for visitors seeking a break from city life. Zoning helps to protect the character of the countryside and its scenic beauty. Preserving the rural environment can support the tourism industry by attracting tourists who are interested in experiencing the beauty of nature and the lifestyle of farming communities. Rural areas, with their natural beauty and sense of open space, draw in visitors.
Environmental Advantages
Agricultural zoning has significant environmental advantages. The protection of farmland helps to conserve natural resources and protect ecosystems. These zones limit development, preventing the loss of natural habitats, protecting water quality, and encouraging sustainable agricultural practices. They are critical for the health of both the environment and human communities. They reduce the impact on the environment and help foster sustainability.
- Conservation of Natural Resources: Agricultural zoning protects natural resources, such as water and soil. By limiting development, it helps prevent soil erosion, water pollution, and the loss of important farmland.
- Protection of Ecosystems: These zones preserve habitats for wildlife and help to maintain biodiversity. This is very important, as farmlands often contain wetlands, forests, and other valuable ecosystems.
- Reduced Environmental Impact of Development: Zoning limits urban sprawl, reducing the environmental impact of development, such as air and water pollution. It also conserves open space.
- Promotion of Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Agricultural zones often encourage farming practices that are environmentally friendly, such as the use of cover crops and reduced chemical inputs.
Zoning promotes sustainable farming practices that are beneficial to the environment. Limiting non-agricultural development ensures that farmlands can be managed sustainably. This in turn reduces the risk of soil erosion and protects water quality by limiting the amount of runoff from paved surfaces. Conserving natural resources in agricultural zones has multiple environmental benefits, benefiting the entire community.
Agricultural zoning helps to preserve the habitats of a wide range of plants and animals. They protect the natural ecosystems, such as forests, wetlands, and grasslands. This helps maintain biodiversity, which is critical for ecosystem stability and health. They contribute to the balance of the environment. Preserving these ecosystems supports ecological processes that are beneficial to both the environment and people.
Urban sprawl can lead to greater pollution from cars, higher energy consumption, and destruction of natural habitats. By restricting development in agricultural zones, zoning reduces these impacts. Keeping land undeveloped helps to preserve air and water quality. Preserving open spaces provides opportunities for recreation and helps to enhance the quality of life.
These practices focus on protecting natural resources and reducing the environmental footprint of farming operations. They promote soil health, reduce erosion, and minimize water pollution. Sustainable practices also often improve the productivity and long-term viability of farms. By promoting responsible farming practices, these zones help support both the agricultural economy and the environment.
Government Involvement and Management of Agriculture Zones USA
Both local and federal governments play key roles in the management of agriculture zones USA. Local governments, such as counties and municipalities, are typically responsible for creating and enforcing zoning regulations. They develop comprehensive plans that set out the vision for land use within their jurisdictions. Federal agencies also support agriculture through various programs and policies. It is a shared responsibility that ensures the long-term protection of farmland.
Local Government Roles
Local governments are at the forefront of agricultural zoning. They make decisions about land use, create zoning ordinances, and implement plans. Their primary role is to develop and enforce local zoning regulations. Local governments must take into account community needs, environmental considerations, and economic goals when they develop zoning plans. Local governments also hold public hearings, manage zoning applications, and enforce zoning rules.
- Developing Zoning Ordinances: Local governments create zoning ordinances that define the specific rules and regulations for agricultural zones.
- Creating Comprehensive Plans: These governments develop comprehensive plans that guide land-use decisions. They assess community needs and develop strategies to address issues such as agricultural preservation, housing, and economic development.
- Enforcing Zoning Regulations: Local governments enforce zoning regulations, ensuring that landowners follow the rules and that non-compliance is addressed.
- Conducting Public Hearings: They hold public hearings to gather input from the community about zoning proposals and other land-use decisions. This helps ensure that the public has a voice in decisions.
These ordinances establish the permitted uses, building restrictions, minimum lot sizes, and other regulations that govern land use in agricultural zones. They are created through a process that often involves public input, expert advice, and community consideration. Zoning ordinances help to support the preservation of farmland. They ensure that land use is consistent with community goals and environmental priorities.
These plans are the framework for managing land use. They spell out a vision for how the community wants to grow. The plans address many issues, including agricultural zoning, and provide guidelines for how local government should manage land use. Creating these plans requires careful consideration of community needs, environmental concerns, and economic development. It also involves community participation to ensure that the plans reflect local values and priorities.
Local government has the responsibility of making sure that zoning regulations are followed. They are involved in everything from processing applications for development to inspecting properties to verify compliance. Local governments have the power to penalize landowners who violate zoning rules. Enforcing these regulations is key to making sure that the goals of agricultural zoning are met and that farmland is protected.
Public hearings give people the chance to share their perspectives, voice concerns, and influence land-use planning. Local governments are expected to gather input, review feedback, and use it to adjust zoning plans as appropriate. This process encourages transparency. It also supports community participation in shaping the direction of land use and zoning.
Federal Government Support
The federal government supports agriculture and farmland preservation through various programs and policies. These programs aim to provide financial assistance, technical expertise, and conservation support. Federal agencies collaborate with state and local governments. They offer grants and funding for a variety of activities, including conservation projects, agricultural research, and land preservation initiatives. Through various avenues, the federal government helps to ensure the continued vitality of the agricultural sector.
- Conservation Programs: Federal agencies, such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), offer programs to help farmers implement conservation practices on their land.
- Farm Bill: The Farm Bill is a major piece of federal legislation that influences agricultural policy. It provides funding for a variety of programs.
- Research and Development: Federal agencies support research to improve agricultural practices, increase productivity, and address environmental challenges.
- Land Preservation Initiatives: The federal government collaborates with state and local governments to protect farmland through conservation easements and other initiatives.
These programs provide technical assistance, financial incentives, and guidance to promote sustainable land management. They encourage practices such as reduced tillage, cover cropping, and conservation buffers. The aim of these programs is to protect soil health, improve water quality, and preserve wildlife habitat. These programs demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting the environmental health of agricultural lands.
The Farm Bill affects many parts of agriculture, including conservation, food assistance, crop insurance, and research. It helps to keep agriculture financially stable, and it includes support for farmers and their operations. The Farm Bill is an important part of the national commitment to food security and farm support. It plays a key role in shaping the future of agriculture.
The government funds research in areas such as crop breeding, pest control, and sustainable farming methods. Federal support of research helps farmers adopt the best methods and deal with environmental challenges. Federal programs encourage innovations that help make farming more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Federal agencies may provide funding or other support for programs. They also support efforts such as conservation easements, which permanently restrict development on farmland. These initiatives help protect agricultural land. They are designed to preserve the agricultural character of areas and safeguard natural resources. They show the federal government’s dedication to conserving farmland.
Challenges and Opportunities in Agriculture Zones USA
Agricultural zoning faces challenges and presents opportunities. A key challenge is managing the conflict between agricultural and non-agricultural land uses. Preserving farmland in rapidly developing areas can be difficult. Zoning regulations must adapt to changes in farming practices and market conditions. There are also opportunities to promote sustainable agriculture and support local food systems. Addressing these issues can improve the effectiveness of these zones.
Challenges Faced
Agricultural zoning confronts several challenges. Some challenges arise from population growth and the development of non-agricultural land. Changes in farming methods, the need to deal with new market conditions, and the need to protect property rights all present their own set of difficulties. These challenges highlight the need for careful management.
- Urban Sprawl and Development Pressure: One major challenge is managing urban sprawl and development pressure, particularly in areas near cities. Development can lead to higher land values, which can pressure farmers to sell their land.
- Conflicts Between Agricultural and Non-Agricultural Uses: Agricultural activities can sometimes conflict with nearby residential areas, leading to complaints about noise, odors, or the use of agricultural chemicals.
- Changing Farming Practices and Market Conditions: Zoning regulations need to adapt to changes in farming practices, such as the use of new technologies and shifts in the agricultural market.
- Property Rights Concerns: Some landowners may oppose zoning regulations, arguing that they restrict their rights to use their land as they see fit. It’s important to strike a balance between individual property rights and the broader public interest.
As cities expand, they can take up farmland. This makes it difficult to maintain agricultural zones, as developers can often pay more than farmers for land. High land values also increase the cost of farming, making it harder for farmers to compete. Managing sprawl needs careful planning and cooperation from different stakeholders. It’s a key challenge to the preservation of farmland.
As residential areas grow closer to farms, there can be conflicts. Residents may complain about the smells from livestock operations, noise from machinery, or the use of pesticides. These issues need careful management. The goal is to find ways to reduce conflicts without limiting agricultural activities. Finding ways to balance residential needs and farming is important.
Farming is constantly changing, with new technologies and markets constantly emerging. Zoning must respond to those shifts. Regulations that were set up years ago may not suit current needs. Zoning must be updated to meet challenges and give flexibility to farmers. This will help them adapt and continue to produce food efficiently.
Zoning can limit what can be done with private property. Some landowners may object to limitations on development or other restrictions, arguing that they diminish the value of their land or restrict how they can use it. The challenge is to find a balance between individual rights and the community’s interest in preserving farmland. This usually involves communication and a fair approach.
Opportunities for the Future
Agricultural zoning provides opportunities to support sustainable agriculture and address current challenges. It offers chances for creativity, such as growing local food systems and creating stronger partnerships between different groups. There is also potential for improving environmental and economic benefits. By taking these opportunities, it’s possible to create stronger, more sustainable agricultural zones.
- Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: Zoning can support sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming and conservation agriculture, by providing incentives and reducing the use of harmful chemicals.
- Supporting Local Food Systems: Zoning can encourage the development of local food systems by allowing farmers markets, farm stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) operations.
- Strengthening Partnerships: Zoning can be more effective when there are collaborations between farmers, local governments, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders. These partnerships are important.
- Enhancing Economic and Environmental Benefits: By addressing existing issues and focusing on sustainability, zoning can improve the economic and environmental benefits.
Zoning regulations can be crafted to promote sustainable farming methods. They can offer farmers the financial or technical assistance to adopt eco-friendly techniques. Promoting sustainable agriculture not only benefits the environment but also can support market opportunities. These programs help make sure that farming is both productive and environmentally sound.
Zoning helps connect farmers with consumers. These regulations help build strong local food systems by allowing farmers to sell directly to consumers. It also helps local economies. Zoning also makes it easier for consumers to buy fresh, local food, thus supporting farms in the community.
To be effective, zoning needs the participation of many groups, including farmers, government, and environmental groups. This can involve sharing information, making coordinated plans, and coming up with ways to deal with conflicts. Together, these groups can set shared goals for agriculture, making sure that farmland is protected and that farming is sustainable.
Zoning can enhance agriculture and the environment. This includes promoting practices that help farmers thrive economically, conserve natural resources, and preserve ecosystems. This can make agriculture more sustainable, benefiting both the environment and the community. By taking advantage of these opportunities, zoning can make a vital contribution to food security and environmental protection.
Common Myths Debunked
Myth 1: Agricultural zoning is unnecessary because farmers can always choose to sell their land if they want to.
Reality: While farmers can indeed choose to sell their land, agricultural zoning provides a framework to keep farmland for farming. Without zoning, market pressures from developers can make it very hard for farmers to resist the financial temptation to sell, leading to the loss of farmland over time. Zoning offers a way to balance private property rights with the need to maintain a reliable food supply and protect environmental resources.
Myth 2: Agricultural zoning prevents economic growth.
Reality: In many ways, agricultural zoning promotes economic growth. By preserving farmland, zoning supports the agricultural industry and related businesses. It also helps to keep land values steady and creates a stable environment for farmers to invest in their operations. Well-planned zoning can allow for economic development that is compatible with agricultural use, such as farm-related businesses and agri-tourism.
Myth 3: Agricultural zones only benefit farmers.
Reality: Agricultural zoning benefits the whole community. In addition to supporting farmers, it helps to keep food supplies secure, provides environmental advantages, and contributes to the local economy. It preserves open space, promotes a sense of community, and supports the rural character of a region. These benefits contribute to a high quality of life for everyone.
Myth 4: Agricultural zoning is inflexible and prevents the use of new farming methods.
Reality: Effective agricultural zoning adapts to change. Zoning ordinances are updated over time to reflect advances in farming practices and market conditions. They are also flexible enough to handle the unique needs of different types of agriculture. Good zoning includes provisions that allow new technologies to be used while also protecting the environment and the interests of the community. Zoning regulations are changed as needed to make sure they remain relevant.
Myth 5: Agricultural zoning is only for rural areas.
Reality: Agricultural zoning is important for both rural and urban areas. Many urban and suburban areas include agricultural land, and zoning is useful for protecting these areas from non-agricultural uses. Zoning helps to make sure that urban farms are viable, which improves food access and helps create local food systems. Zoning is relevant wherever agriculture exists, from the countryside to the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is the primary goal of agricultural zoning?
Answer: The main goal is to protect and preserve farmland for agricultural use by limiting non-agricultural development.
Question: How do agricultural zones benefit the environment?
Answer: They help conserve natural resources, protect water quality, and preserve wildlife habitats by restricting development.
Question: Who is primarily responsible for creating and enforcing agricultural zoning regulations?
Answer: Local governments, such as counties and municipalities, are primarily responsible.
Question: What is a conservation easement, and how is it used in agricultural zoning?
Answer: A conservation easement is a legal agreement that restricts the use of a piece of land to protect its conservation values, often used to preserve farmland.
Question: What are some of the challenges faced by agricultural zones?
Answer: Challenges include urban sprawl, conflicts between agricultural and residential uses, and adapting to changes in farming practices.
Final Thoughts
Agriculture zones USA are a crucial part of our national landscape and food system. These zones play a pivotal role in ensuring a steady supply of food, supporting farming communities, and protecting the environment. They’re not just about setting aside land for farming; they’re about creating a framework that allows agriculture to thrive. As communities grow and evolve, so must our approach to zoning. By understanding the importance of these zones, we can make informed decisions. Support local farmers and food systems, and advocate for sustainable land-use policies. We can all play a role in safeguarding our valuable agricultural resources for the future. The choices we make today will shape the landscape and the food supply of tomorrow. Let’s work together to protect our farms and the benefits they bring.