Farmland Preservation

Farmland is one of Haywood County’s greatest natural resources. It provides food, supports local businesses and farmers, preserves open space, and helps maintain the rural character that makes our county unique.

But farmland can be difficult to keep in production when development pressures increase. Landowners may face rising costs, changing markets, and pressure to sell their property for residential or commercial development.

Haywood County already has programs designed to help protect working farmland. Voluntary Agricultural Districts and Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural Districts allow eligible landowners to voluntarily place limits on certain types of development. The county also participates in programs that can provide financial support for conservation easements.

Preserving farmland does not mean stopping growth. It means thinking carefully about where growth happens and finding ways for agriculture to remain a viable part of the local economy.

Haywood County has more than 64,000 acres of farmland, producing millions of dollars in livestock, dairy, and crops. Protecting those working lands can help preserve both the county’s agricultural heritage and an important part of its economy.

The challenge is finding ways to grow while keeping the farms, forests, and open spaces that make Haywood County special.