10 Reasons to Save Farmland
and Natural Areas

Experts indicate that if we don't take significant steps in the next few years to preserve farmland and natural areas in Washington County, it may be too late.

We may assume that everybody understands why preservation is important, but that's not the case. For example, some people may believe that protecting farmland and natural areas is a barrier to economic development. 

But carefully planned economic development that is consistent with the values and character of the towns and villages in our county is beneficial.  Development can't and shouldn't be stopped.  We must work together, however, to ensure that it is done in a thoughtful way, and use all mechanisms at our disposal to protect valuable parcels of farmland that once developed, will be lost forever.

Here are 10 reasons why farmland and natural areas are worth saving.

Numerous studies have shown that farmland and natural areas pay for themselves.  Typically, for every tax dollar collected, farmland consumes less money worth of services while residential property consumes more. This means that from a tax standpoint, residential development is a losing proposition, putting additional pressure on town infrastructure and school systems.  On the other hand, "cows and trees don't go to school."  Whether you like farmland and natural areas or not, relying on residential development is not a financially viable option for long term economic stability.  

For more information on Cost of Community Service Studies check out the American Farmland Trust website.

Farming is a one trillion dollar business nationwide, and makes up 13% of our gross domestic product, and 17% of jobs.  Agriculture in Washington County contributes over $629.9 million to our economy and is responsible for 4,986 jobs. More than 2,000 people are employed by 844 farms in Washington County . 

For more info see the UW-Extension's brochure on the Value & Economic Impact of Agriculture in Washington County.

People don't visit our part of the state to see subdivisions or parking lots.  They come to see open farm fields, forested roads, and beautiful scenery. While they are here, they stop at local shops, stay in our hotels and inns, eat in our restaurants, and purchase cider, Christmas trees, food and plants from farms.  All of this enhances local tax revenues.  

Communities with farmland and natural areas are more livable.  Residents enjoy being able to go for a walk in the woods, or seeing a variety of birds in their yard. 

Farmland and natural areas increases the value of surrounding property.  Research indicates that properties near open land may be valued as much as 20% higher than comparable property not near open space.  

Prime, productive farm soils are a nonrenewable resource. With current concerns about the source, quality, and reliability of our food supply, it's important to protect agricultural land near where people live. Local farms supply food, lumber, plants for our gardens, and many other things we all want and use.

Farmland and natural areas help protect the environment.  Improperly planned development can increase the risk of flooding, and pollution of rivers and streams.  Septic systems can add untreated wastes to surface water and groundwater.  Contamination can also result from road salt, oil leaks from automobiles, and runoff from lawn chemicals.  Increased use of cars leads to traffic congestion and air pollution.  On the other hand, soil and wetlands filter out contaminants, reduce the risk of flooding, and recharge underground drinking water supplies; and forests purify the air. 

Open space helps protect wildlife.  Large connected areas of open space provide animals room to move around, hide, find food, avoid inbreeding, and increase their numbers. 

Wisconsin has over 240 species of plants and animals that are endangered, threatened or of special concern.  Invasive species are very aggressive and spread rapidly, and are often encouraged by disturbance such as earth moving.  They can choke out native species, and are now transforming our landscape in a "march towards monoculture" which damages our natural heritage and reduces biodiversity. 

For more information visit the Natural Heritage Inventory On-Line Database.

When people think of Washington County , they think of scenic vistas with rolling farm fields, forests and clear ridgelines.  This rural/agricultural character is not only visually appealing; it is part of our cultural heritage.