Rich Agriculture History

Washington County has a long a storied tradition of agriculture. Farming has shaped both the cultural and economic identity of Washington County and remains the County's preeminent industry. The Washington County Planning Department is committed to assisting the agricultural industry to continue to thrive.

Agriculture as an Economic Engine

Agriculture is a leading industry in Washington County. Our productive and important soils, coupled with close proximity to major markets, has made Washington County a center for agricultural operations and their supporting industries.
Click HERE for more information about Agriculture & Economic Development. 
  

  

Washington County's                                                                                      Agricultural & Farmland Protection Plan

Original Plan

The original plan was adopted in 1996 and was one of the first County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plans adopted in New York State. In 2015 the Washington County Board of Supervisors  recognized the need to update and expand the plan to reflect the changes that have occurred in the agricultural industry over the past 2 decades.

Updated 2017 Plan 

In February of 2015, Washington County was awarded a grant through the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to undertake the process of updating the original Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan. The County adopted the final plan in 2017 and it is now available by clicking on the image below. 
     
Click the report  image to open and download Washington County's 2017 Agriculture & Farmland Protection Plan