Identifying farmland of local importance in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties

Abstract

The determination of farmland of local importance is a critical component in protecting local agricultural land. However, the initial responsibility for identifying this land falls upon local units of government which are given limited guidance, direction, and support. As such, this can be a highly subjective process. The objective of this study was to apply a previously-described approach to systematically identify potential farmland of local importance in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties of West Virginia, thus facilitating a more informed and less subjective determination. To this end, this study examined definitions of other important soils, developed local criteria based on our specific regional agricultural community, and used a geographic information system (GIS) to identify potential farmland of local importance. Three map units in each county were identified for further consideration. Following a closer examination of their extents, descriptions, and patterns of use, the appropriate local unit of government was provided with the rationale for considering these soils. With this information, the local unit of government was then able to evaluate the data objectively and make a more informed, less subjective decision about potential soil map units of local importance in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.