Implementation of State law. Local comprehensive plans usually contain policy expressions favoring protection of agricultural lands. C. Models from Other States and Countries 1. Oregon Growth Boundary Law 2. The preservation of water resources is as important to agriculture as it is to any other industry.
Agricultural operations can contribute to pollution of both surface water and groundwater.
The protection of groundwater in rural areas is especially important since private wells are an exclusive source of drinking water. Agricultural activities are believed to be significant contributors to non-point source pollution of surface water. Run-off from agricultural operations can contain residues of pesticides, fertilizer and animal manure that contribute to sedimentation, eutrophication and chemical pollution of both inland and coastal water bodies. Requires states to identify significant sources of non-point source pollution and to develop Best Management Practices for controlling such sources. 17-1401 et seq.