Henderson County, the largest farming county west of Interstate 77 in North Carolina, is taking steps to preserve its farmland. The county has lost over 8,000 acres of farmland between 2017 and 2022, with increased urbanization pressures and high land costs contributing to the decline.

Farmland Preservation Efforts

The Henderson County Commissioners have unanimously agreed to put a $25 million general obligation bond referendum on the ballot this fall. The bond will fund the county’s purchase of development rights from farmers and create conservation easements, allowing farmers to continue using their land for agricultural purposes while preventing future development.

Local farmer Gary Steiner, who owns Bee-utiful Farm and Garden, is supportive of the initiative. He has already put his land into a voluntary agricultural district and is now considering an enhanced voluntary agricultural district, which would provide additional protection for his land.

Importance of Farmland Preservation

Farmland preservation is crucial for the local economy, with agriculture accounting for about 20% of Henderson County’s economy. The loss of farmland not only affects local farmers but also impacts the community’s food security and quality of life.

Mallory O’Steen, senior Southeast farmland program manager for the American Farmland Trust, notes that low-density residential development is a primary driver of farmland loss nationally. She emphasizes the importance of preserving farmland, particularly in areas like Western North Carolina, where the land is limited and the population is growing.

Original reporting: Carolina Public Press — read the source article.