Finds that it is in the best interest of the state to find innovative and economically sustainable ways to conserve and protect productive agricultural lands, critical wildlife habitat, and other natural resources.

Finds that the diminishing stock of productive agricultural lands can be preserved through the creation of conservation easements that limit the amount of land available for intensive development.

Finds that working natural resources and wildlife habitat areas can be protected by the same conservation easements that protect existing agricultural lands.

Recognizes the unique interests and knowledge that private property owners have about their land and about the most effective means available to protect the wildlife habitat and natural resources on that land.

Declares an intent to protect the use and value of productive agricultural property and the wildlife habitat and other natural resources on that property by encouraging voluntary, cooperative farmland preservation and environmental enhancement programs with willing property owners.