A recent survey, conducted by the Bluegrass chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society found that harmonic land use and the impacts of urban growth on farmland preservation are important issues. The Bluegrass chapter includes most Kentucky counties east of Interstate 65.

There are several options available for landowners to exercise in protecting their right to continue agricultural or silvicultural land use with their property.

On July 26, 2000, the Bluegrass Chapter of SWCS, is sponsoring a professional development workshop entitled "Protecting Kentucky's Farmland – 2000". The workshop is for landowners, advisors, educators and public officials and will be held at the Fayette County Cooperative Extension Office.

The program will bring together Specialists from different organizations and agencies along with participating Kentucky landowners. They will be sharing information on numerous options such as conservation easements, purchase of development rights and land trusts, all currently available in Kentucky. Registration fees are $35.00 for non Chapter members and $10.00 for Bluegrass Chapter Members. The fee includes a catered lunch, refreshments and educational materials.

Registration is limited to approximately 150 on a first-come first-serve basis. To register, contact your local county Extension office, Soil Conservation District or by calling Maner Ferguson, county Extension agent for agriculture at the Fayette Co. Extension office: (859) 257 5582 on or before July 15, 2000. Please register early.

For further information please contact your County Extension Office, your Soil Conservation District Office or Henry Duncan , University of Kentucky at the Kentucky Division of Conservation : (502) 564-3080.