In many planning documents and zoning ordinances, agricultural land use is either considered a type of open space or as a holding zone for future development. The reality is that agriculture is an active use in its own right that merits a focus from planners.
Like so many businesses, farms are under intense pressure to remain profitable, incorporate the newest technology, and meet sustainability demands. Recognizing the challenges that farmers face, the Agricultural Development Council in Chester County, which falls under the umbrella of the county planning commission, undertook an agricultural economic development strategic plan. This plan looked at the current situation for county farmers and identified actions they can take to prepare for the future of farming.
Here are a few of the more interesting recommendations:
- With great interest in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, farmers need to define what works best for them rather than have outsiders do it. Farm operators will need to be prepared for traceability and carbon credit markets. Farmers also need to actively show how their farms have a positive environmental impact.
- Urban agriculture and indoor ag are coming, particularly in a place like Chester County, which accounts for much of the state’s indoor ag production through its mushroom houses.
- With ongoing labor shortages, farms will need to become significantly more automated.
- Farmers need to add value to their products, such as making cheese out of milk, or diversify towards higher-value uses.
There are lots more strategies and recommendations in the plan, which can be viewed online.
