We do not have to destroy the rainforest in order to grow beef for America. We could, if we want to eat meat, eat the animals raised right here, on land too steep to be used for crops. You will not find purer meat, as it is totally devoid of growth hormones or antibiotics. We do not have to make our clothing, bedding and carpets from synthetics, derived from fossil fuel. Open space could also be protected through purchasing conservation easements from willing sellers.
Easements have a number of advantages to ranchers.
The land they love will never be developed. The money from selling an easement may enable a rancher to enhance or expand a ranch, or to pay inheritance taxes. Joe has watched Marin Agricultural Land Trust and feels that it has worked well. M.A.L.T. Joe would like to see the Open Space District more active in our part of the county. It was originally concerned mostly with protecting green belts around cities.