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Preserving
Wilderness and Farm Land
Where
Do We Go From Here?
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Butterfly Hollow Farm ____ The Path Leading Us Here ____ How The Farm Got Its Name ____ Restoring the Old Farmhouse ____ Where The Beefalo Roam ____ Saddle Up The Horses ____ Saving Wilderness and Farm Land ____ Farm Journals ____ Sharing The Farm ____ Guest Book ____ Site Map ____ |
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Although
there is no one formula for success in the efforts of preserving farmland,
there is a common pattern in the process of designing an effective
protection strategy. They are called the five
I's. They include: IDENTIFICATION,
INVENTORY, INVESTIGATION, INTEGRATION, and IMPLEMENTATION. In the case studies that the American Farmland Trust researched, they show how important it is to engage a wide range of stakeholders in the effort to address these challenges. A strong coalition can facilitate approval of new legislation and public funding, ensure continued political support for farmland protection, and secure a strong future for agriculture. Thus the additional "I" of INVOLVEMENT is necessary at every step. The first step we must make as communities is a further identification of our land issues. Outreach and involvement are critical parts to this process. While the threat to agriculture and farmland may be recognized first by farmers or conservationist, it is rare for one group to have the power to create a solution alone. Those who have vested interest in growth and development such as builders, realtors, bankers and business people should also get involved. The most effective farmland protection strategies typically result from a stakeholdeer consensus as to the extent and nature of the problems that need to be addressed and an agreement that something can and should be done. Identification of the problem can take many forms, from conversations between neighbors, to formal discussion groups or surveys. When all is told, farmland is a productive asset. Saving it is an investment for our children, our communities and our country. We must be strategic in our approach to protecting farmland, and understand its many values so America's agriculture can continue to provide a source of renewable wealth. We must recognize the forces that lead to farmland conversion and address the challenges our country is facing. This will take vision, planning, private initiative, policy development, and dedicated community action. I hope these web pages have provided enough information to stir your thoughts, emotions and awareness. My intent was purly to share my concern and to connect other good people to the processes already working to save our wilderness and farm lands. Please join with me in supporting and getting involved with the efforts of the American Farmland Trust. Together we can Preserve, Protect and Pass on the wonderful home of ours.
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info@butterflyhollow.com
Butterfly
Hollow
Gordonsville,
TN 38563