Fulton County designates 554 acres for farmland preservation

3/17/2006

WAUSEON - Part of Fulton County's York Township became the first area in Ohio to get a new farmland preservation tool yesterday.

Fulton County commissioners voted 2-0 to designate 554 acres between Delta and Liberty Center, much of it along State Rt. 109, as an Ohio Agricultural Security Area, as requested by landowners. The state's agricultural security area legislation went into effect in May. Local governments that agree to such an area make a commitment not to initiate, approve, or finance any nonfarm development activity, such as extending water and sewer lines or building roads within the area during the 10-year period.

The landowners agree not to undertake any nonfarm development on the land, although they are allowed one home for every 40 acres for relatives.