UVM Theses and Dissertations
Format:
Print
Author:
Hyman, Jessica M.
Dept./Program:
Community Development and Applied Economics
Year:
2009
Degree:
MS
Abstract:
High land prices and development, a shift away from a dairy-based agricultural commodity economy and the explosion of the local food movement have contributed to the diversification of products and land use in Vermont. Many farmers have found economically viable niches in areas such as community supported agriculture, direct sales, organic and value-added products and specialty foods.
Representing the majority of farms in the state, these smaller, diversified enterprises are often located near population centers and are not the owners' sole source of income. This presents an interesting set of challenges and opportunities. Being located close to more densely populated areas facilitates direct marketing and increases producerconsumer interaction. Also, the combination of diversified products and off-farm income can allow for more flexibility and a quicker response to market changes. The flip side of this proximity to population centers is increased development pressure and the possibility of conflicts between farmers and other businesses or residents. This thesis examines the relationship between development pressure and farmers' plans to buy or sell land, particularly on those farms that make up the majority of the state's agricultural sector.
A farm-level survey of four targeted agricultural groups combined with farmer interviews and conversations with key agricultural and planning stakeholders has produced new information about how farmland is being used and gives insight into farmers' perceptions of development pressure and their local government boards' level of support for agriculture. The survey also identifies areas facing farmland change through the sale or purchase of farmland. The land use and planning implications of the state's evolving agricultural economy are then used to develop policy recommendations for local and regional planners to help them develop policies that preserve open land, reduce sprawl and encourage viable and sustainable agricultural land-use and outreach recommendations for communities seeking to support and enhance their agricultural economies.
Representing the majority of farms in the state, these smaller, diversified enterprises are often located near population centers and are not the owners' sole source of income. This presents an interesting set of challenges and opportunities. Being located close to more densely populated areas facilitates direct marketing and increases producerconsumer interaction. Also, the combination of diversified products and off-farm income can allow for more flexibility and a quicker response to market changes. The flip side of this proximity to population centers is increased development pressure and the possibility of conflicts between farmers and other businesses or residents. This thesis examines the relationship between development pressure and farmers' plans to buy or sell land, particularly on those farms that make up the majority of the state's agricultural sector.
A farm-level survey of four targeted agricultural groups combined with farmer interviews and conversations with key agricultural and planning stakeholders has produced new information about how farmland is being used and gives insight into farmers' perceptions of development pressure and their local government boards' level of support for agriculture. The survey also identifies areas facing farmland change through the sale or purchase of farmland. The land use and planning implications of the state's evolving agricultural economy are then used to develop policy recommendations for local and regional planners to help them develop policies that preserve open land, reduce sprawl and encourage viable and sustainable agricultural land-use and outreach recommendations for communities seeking to support and enhance their agricultural economies.