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County presents updated farmland preservation plan; public hearing set for May 15
Summary
Staff presented an updated Washington County Farmland Preservation Plan, explained the mapping methodology and next steps, and said a public hearing and committee consideration are scheduled for May 15; seven towns signaled interest in participating in the state program.
Washington County staff presented the county’s updated Farmland Preservation Plan on April 15, explained the mapping process used to identify priority farmland, and said the plan will go to a public hearing before the Land Use and Planning Committee on May 15.
Staff described the plan’s two‑part evaluation: a land‑evaluation component that scores natural features (soils, wetlands) and a site‑assessment component that scores man‑made or development‑pressure features. Parcels were scored 1–10, then placed into tier 1 (highest priority) and tier 2. Staff said draft maps were circulated to town boards and landowners; seven towns passed resolutions of intent to include farmland preservation areas in their local planning and to allow staff to seek state certification.
Key program details presented: the county-level map excludes parcels planned for non‑agricultural development and blocks below a minimum acreage threshold; the plan’s minimum block size for inclusion was set to 35 acres to reduce barriers for participation. Staff summarized state implementation options: towns can pursue farmland preservation zoning or petition to form agricultural enterprise areas; landowners who participate may be eligible for state tax credits of $10 per acre (zoning or AEA) or $12.50 per acre if in both programs.
Staff said an open house for landowners is scheduled for April 30 and that the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) will review the county plan for certification after local action; DATCP’s review can take up to 90 days. The plan must be incorporated into the county comprehensive plan by ordinance if adopted; staff noted the farmland plan is updated every 10 years and that the county will accept written input and suggested amendments prior to the May public hearing.
