Recent state and federal estimates suggest that more than 100,000 acres are withdrawn from agricultural uses in the state each year. In addition, non-farm development is occurring near expanding livestock farms. Nonfarm neighbors may object to the noise, odors and other aspects of farm activities. Private property owners often have conflicting interests when land use issues arise. Farmers themselves don't agree about land use issues.
Older farmers depend on the sale of their lands to support themselves in retirement.
But increasing land values block the entry of younger farmers or the expansion of existing farms. Local governments are asked to review proposals for residential or agricultural development to protect and balance the interests of different groups of rural residents. Issues such as planning, zoning, building permits, and purchasing development rights are becoming more common in town and county government meetings and deliberations. CALS Public Issues Forums examine important agricultural issues from social, economic, and public policy perspectives. The forums do not advocate for particular points of view, although a range of views will be presented.