Probably the government should purchase a conservation easement. From my perspective, that would be a much better way of supporting farmers because there's a long-term benefit, and because the creeks would run clear. And, there are California and Napa County tax laws designed to protect agricultural land by taxing it at its current agricultural use rather than for its potential use. To ensure that the setback requirements are being met, Blake says the county depends more on site visits and education than on fines or other penalties. We have tried to make the program user-friendly.
People can come in, get help developing their plans.
They're given information that helps them do the right thing. There are private consultants in addition to NRCS and the conservation district planners, and we have a workshop once a year to trade notes on the latest technology. So instead of just having a law, we provide a lot of practical information. A little encouragement from fellow grape grower peers doesn't hurt, either.