Brian Rianda, Trustee and chief force behind the Monterey County Agricultural and Historical Land Conservancy, Inc., is a lifelong resident of Salinas and a real estate agent specializing in farm and ranch sales. In his experience, if a parcel of agricultural land is rezoned for residential use at five units per acre, the value can increase as much as ten fold. The possibility of profits like these can be a tremendous incentive to attempt rezoning. The issue then becomes one of finding ways to keep the land in agriculture. The Conservancy has used a variety of means to preserve land, including Federal income tax deductions, reduced estate tax liability, property tax advantages and outright purchase.
Population growth is the other key factor leading to urban sprawl.
Santa Cruz and San Benito counties will also be experiencing tremendous growth. The issue will be how to achieve a balance between population, economics and preservation of farmlands. The group's efforts are confined to Monterey County. Landwatch welcomes members. All donations are tax deductible.