Counties prepare these plans for participation in the state's Farmland Preservation Program. At a minimum, the plans include statements of policy regarding the preservation of agricultural lands, urban growth, the provision of public facilities and the protection of significant natural resource, open space, scenic, historic or architectural areas. The plans also include maps identifying agricultural areas to be preserved, areas of special environmental, natural resource or open space significance and transition areas and an implementation program. The plans are required to include agricultural preservation plans adopted by municipalities. In addition, agricultural preservation plans are required to be a component of and consistent with any county development plan. Completed plans are reviewed and certified by the state Land and Water Conservation Board, which is attached to the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Of Wisconsin’s 72 counties, 70 have certified agricultural preservation plans.

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