Letter to the Editor

January 25, 2005

Farmland needs preservation

Let us not forget - agricultural business is still one of the top employers in Washington County . Agriculture provides jobs for almost 5,000 Washington County residents; accounts for $629.9 million in economic activity; contributes $202.3 million to the county's total income; and pays $20.7 million in taxes.

While the southern third of the county is rapidly urbanizing, the northern two-thirds still relies on fertile farmland for the health of the local economy.

So, it is very far-sighted for some county officials to be developing policy to preserve our remaining high-quality farmland.

Some critical natural areas in the county have already been preserved for future generations by organizations like the Ice Age Trail and Park Foundation, the Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation, the county park system, municipalities, and the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust.

Now it's time to extend that respect for land to farmland. As it is said, they're not making any more of it. Indeed, it is disappearing at an alarming rate.

Why not devote part of the .5 percent county sales tax - about $3 million per year - to farmland preservation?

The sales tax expires next year, but there are many good projects that still need funding.

Farmland preservation through the purchase of development rights should be at the top of the list.

Anthony Warren, West Bend