Preserve Farmland & Livelihoods
Securing the future of Oregon's " working lands " for the continued production of food, fiber, and community resilience.
The Bedrock of Protection
Oregon's farms and forests – our resource lands – are considered " working lands " and are protected under Statewide Planning Goals to ensure they remain productive for generations to come.
Goal 3: Agricultural Lands
Specifically preserves farmland for the continued production of food and fiber. It limits non-farm uses and protects the soil and climate resources that make southern Oregon unique.
Goal 4: Forest Lands
Protects working forest land around the state for commercial forestry while recognizing its vital role in fish and wildlife habitat, recreation, and the protection of air and water quality.
Farmland Conservation Program
The heavy loss of agricultural lands in our region has led our coalition to develop strategies for long-term protection. Our Farmland Conservation Program is the direct result of this forward-thinking vision.
Modeled after successful programs in California, Vermont, and Colorado, this system ensures that when farmland is converted for urban use, the loss must be mitigated through the permanent protection of other high-value farmland under development pressure.
By preserving these areas for resource use, we also secure wildlife habitat conservation, recreation opportunities, and the signature landscapes of southern Oregon.
"Oregon’s signature landscapes are defined by its working lands."
Strategic Priorities
How we focus our resources to ensure the survival of local agriculture and farm livelihoods.
Collaborative Action
Exploring opportunities for deep collaboration with organizations working on similar agricultural and conservation issues.
Policy Advocacy
Advocating for land use decisions and affordable housing rules that support a vibrant workforce and rural livelihoods.
Public Education
Educating local communities about land-use planning proposals and their long-term impact on our food security.
Legal Appeals
Appealing land use decisions that threaten to undermine the protection of our region’s most productive resource lands.
Protect our farmland from sprawl.
Read about our land use advocacy work to protect farmland from sprawl.