449 of the farms in the county are full-time operations. The average farm covers 173 acres, but there are 11 farms in the County over 1,000 acres. This helps preserve the identity of individual towns and villages by buffering one community from neighboring settlements. Farmland contributes to the scenic views characteristic of Centre County. Farms provide both habitat and corridors for fish and wildlife.
Air quality is enhanced by the dynamics of farmland.
Taken together, these factors are important to the public's perception of the quality of life in Centre County. Farmland allows for groundwater recharge, assuring stable supplies of drinking water plus water for environmental uses and recreation. Conservation of Centre County's superior quality soils, an outstanding agricultural resource. Tax revenues collected from farmland far exceeds the cost of providing return services to that land. Farming has been a part of the economy since Centre County was created, its presence provides a link to the community's history and future.