Why is preserving farmland important to Kent County?
A committee of Kent County residents identified the following list. • Economic Benefits of Farmland Protection • Agriculture provides economic diversity as essential contributor to local economy • Important to create a long-term business environment for the future growth and changing market opportunities of the local agriculture industry • Insure a safe, adequate local food supply • Environmental Benefits of Farmland Protection • Watershed protection • Wildlife habitat • Prime and unique soils • Integral part of natural resource infrastructure • Social Benefits of Farmland Protection • Helps maintain a quality of life for all citizens • Protects rural character, beautiful country side and scenic vistas • Promote a sustainable and viable urban-rural community interface • Kent County is the 5th most agriculturally productive county in the state with a market value of over $149 million annually. It is an important sector of our economy and provides many jobs. • Once farmland is converted
