2009 Annual Report for LNC08-302
Connecting Landowners, Growers and Markets Using Purchase of Development Rights (PDR)
Summary
The Connecting Landowners, Growers and Markets project spent its first year producing materials, gathering information and establishing relationships. The advisory committee met twice and provided critical input into program development. A short slide presentation was developed to explain the project's goals (attached).
A meeting of landowners was held in April to gather perspective on challenges foreseen in leasing land to a small farm operation. Subsequently a survey (attached) was sent to 35 landowners and posted on the Township's web site (http://www.aatwp.org/smallfarms.htm), of which eight were returned offering land for lease. Similarly a survey for prospective producers was created and posted on the web site (attached). In addition a project brochure was created and distributed at conferences and other venues (attached). These contacts resulted in a number of property visits.
Opportunities to establish small farm operations were also pursued at a 150-acre Township-owned property. The land has been leased to a local production farmer but gradually fields are being made available for small farms. A sizable barn on the property was repaired and opportunities to convert it for collective use are being explored.
Objectives/Performance Targets
The project's short-term objective was to identify and introduce landowners & farmers. That occurred to some degree in the first year, with more ongoing in year two.
Accomplishments/Milestones
- developed project slide show
convened landowner meeting
produced, distributed and posted landowner survey
produced and posted producer survey
produced project brochure
produced project web page
Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes
The project did not have impacts or contributions in its first year.