SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5862

BYSenator Talmadge

Enacting the Washington farm heritage act.

Senate Committee on Agriculture

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 28, 1989

Senate Staff:John Stuhlmiller (786-7446)

AS OF FEBRUARY 24, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Concern has been raised over the loss of productive farmland in this state to other uses such as urban and commercial development.  In addition, the lack of coordination and regulation at the county and state level regarding the conversion and improper management of agricultural land has contributed to the loss issue.

SUMMARY:

The Washington Farm Heritage Act is created.

By January 1, 1990, the Department of Agriculture shall prepare a comprehensive report on the present conditions of and future impacts on the farmland resource base in the state.

The report shall include:  (1) an inventory of the farmlands of the state; (2) information regarding conversion of farmlands to nonfarm uses during the past and future trend projections; (3) discussion of soil erosion rates and recommended practices to reduce erosion; (4) recommendations regarding farming methods and practices which help protect environmentally safe areas and protect long-term productivity; (5) an assessment of economic and environmental benefits of farmland and farming activities; (6) a study of the relationship between farmland conversion and actions of boundary review boards; (7) development of model local ordinances for farmland protection; and (8) recommendations for administrative and legislative action to discourage excessive conversion of farmland to other uses, and to encourage the role of private, nonprofit organizations in farmland protection.

Additional zoning authority is given to counties to allow the development of exclusive farm use zones.  Also, the legislative authority of any county, city or town may designate up to 25 percent of tax proceeds set aside in the county capital improvements fund be allocated for the acquisition or purchase of development rights to farmland or other real property interests in farmland.

Any state agency proposing a capital improvement project to be carried out by or funded by the agency shall assess the impact which the project may have on farmland.  Where a project may result in an unnecessary or excessive conversion of farmland to nonfarm uses, the agency may modify the project to eliminate or mitigate the adverse effects.  When the improvement includes any proposed acquisition and improvement of a right of way for transportation, utility, waste water treatment or similar project, the reviewing agency shall consider alternatives to minimize the loss of farmland and to ensure that remaining farmland ownership is economically viable.

The Department of Agriculture shall administer a grant program for the purpose of encouraging local government farmland protection programs and the participation of private, nonprofit organizations in the protection of farmland.  Guidelines shall be distributed to all counties, and any county may apply for a grant which shall be used for the development of a local government plan for farmland protection.  The plan shall include both regulatory and incentive measures, and shall encourage the formation and operation of private, nonprofit organizations whose purpose is farmland protection.

The department may adopt a local match requirement of up to 25 percent for eligibility.  A maximum of three grants shall be awarded during the biennium ending June 30, 1991.

Appropriation:    A blank appropriation from the general fund is provided

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 24, 1989