Laying the Groundwork for Farmland Protection
What Local Government Needs to Know
Recorded on 12/7/2020
Our farms provide us with fresh, local food all year round. New York’s farmland is integral to our economy, environment, and our heritage. Thankfully, New York State invests millions of dollars each year to permanently protect this vital resource. Competing successfully for this funding requires careful preparation and planning. Attendees will learn how to plan for farmland protection at the local level, including the elements of a good agricultural protection plan, and how to lay the groundwork for successful farmland protection grant applications.
This webinar is intended for planning and zoning board members, local government officials and staff, and anyone interested in planning for farmland protection.
About the Presenter
Rachel Chrostowski leads the Western New York Land Conservancy’s farmland protection efforts through engagement with farmers, grant writing, and conservation easement projects. Prior to joining the Land Conservancy, Rachel provided training and technical assistance on agriculture, smart growth, open space and land use planning as a planner in Erie and Livingston Counties. Rachel currently serves on the Erie County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board, and participates in the Alliance for New York’s Farmland statewide agricultural advocacy efforts. She is passionate about helping landowners permanently protect agricultural lands for the benefit of future generations.
This event was made possible with support from American Farmland Trust (AFT). Seneca Trail RC&D is a Regional Navigator for AFT’s Farmland for a New Generation program (FNG-NY). The focal point of the FNG-NY program is the New York Farmland Finder, a website that helps link farmers seeking land and landowners who want to keep their land in farming.