Through a series of papers and stakeholder workshops over the last 14 months, SACOG staff has worked with farmers and ranchers, local government staff, and other stakeholders to identify land use challenges and opportunities and key innovations that can support the viability of agriculture in the region.
In June, SACOG staff is presenting its findings and a set of innovations to the SACOG Board of Directors (for a list of innovations, see page 2). Staff studied current land uses in rural areas and the effects on agriculture. Staff also reviewed planning and policy innovations—many of which are practiced in the region—that further support agricultural viability.
Innovations were compiled into two categories: innovations at the rural-urban edge, and innovations for agricultural viability and environmental sustainability. The first category includes innovations that address the conflicts that occur between rural and urban land uses. From development encroachment to complaints about farm operations to traffic impacts, managing the rural-urban edge was identified as critical to supporting agricultural viability.
The second category of innovations includes innovations ranging from land conservation and stewardship efforts to supporting agriculture-related industries, such as processing or agritourism. A numberof examples are offered throughout the summary to illustrate successful efforts in this region to support agriculture and environmental services.
In May, SACOG staff presented local markets innovations to the board. In August, staff will talk about rural transportation innovations. Following that, staff will be seeking guidance from the board on areas to focus initial implementation efforts and develop strategies and tools to help stakeholders implement innovations from the RUCS project.