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Loss of farmland, agricultural land and rural areas had been identified by
three LaGrange County organizations as one of the top natural resource
concerns. LaGrange County has shown the lowest build up of urban sprawl
in the six-county Wood-Land-Lakes' area. It's important to note that this county's economy relies heavily
on tourism from its rural character.
Our Land Committee noted that an outreach
program targeting LaGrange County would make the greatest impact in its
area. In 2001, the LaGrange County Community Foundation awarded a grant
for the purpose of initiating a new project entitled Protecting
LaGrange County Farmland.
This unique project has made a significant impact on our ability to
reach out to LaGrange County landowners. Land Committee
volunteers worked to educate and present information on some voluntary options
for protecting farmland to LaGrange County landowners, local clubs and
organizations. LaGrange-specific brochures were developed and distributed
for information and reference to all LaGrange County farmland owners.
The effects of this 2-year grant created many “firsts” for Wood-Land-Lakes and the
LaGrange County community. Some of our accomplishments are:
- Increased public relations through recognition in local newspapers
with 2 features showcasing LaGrange County’s first conservation easement
held by us, reaching over 8,500 subscribers
- First project to target one rural county with a large Amish
population
- Received statewide recognition in Indiana Prairie Farmer magazine
- Protected 140 acres of cropland from development and subdivision
- First protection of farmland in LaGrange and the largest cropland
acreage held by us
- Improved community access to conservation easement and farmland
protection information and materials through development of website
- Improved professional knowledge through education of local clubs,
attorneys and bank about value of conservation easement
We look forward to being involved with the grant’s far reaching
impacts within the LaGrange County community, as this innovative approach
continues to bring landowners to Wood-Land-Lakes. Our speakers
on farmland conservation are available to all. Please contact
us if you are interested in a speaker for your organization. |
