Help protect Wayne County farms and farmland for future generations

Although our giving page is no longer active, you can still donate. If you would like to provide any additional support, please make a gift here.

Wayne County Farmland is a ‘National Treasure’  

American Farmland Trust (AFT) has mapped the entire country to identify the best agricultural land for food production. 81% of the land in Wayne County agriculture is considered "Nationally Significant", which AFT describes as the most productive, versatile and resilient farmland in the country. When managed well, it provides a host of environmental benefits and is the factory floor for agricultural economic opportunities.

Wayne County is a Powerhouse of Production

Agriculture makes up 21% of the Wayne County’s economy, 15% of total employment and 20% of labor income. We are #1 in the state for dairy, #2 for cattle and calves, #3 for livestock and poultry and #3 for total value of products sold. Wayne County also has the largest local food economy in Ohio with over $8 million in sales.

Ag is an important part of Our Community

Our comprehensive plan, Wayne County Onward, calls out our rich rural and agricultural heritage as an important county asset, along with the opportunity for "small town" living.

Wayne County Farms and Farmland are under Threat

Making a living in farming is becoming harder. Changes in markets, an aging farm population and farm stress combined with urban development pressure on prime farmland are raising concerns about the future of Wayne County agriculture and the larger regional economy connected to farming. From 2012-2017, 20,000 acres went out of production - idled or slated for development. Once farmland is developed, it is gone...forever.

To help support farms and protect farmland, the Wayne County Ag Success Team (AST) has convened farmers, food and farm supply chain businesses, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, capital providers, economic development organizations and local government with diverse perspectives, deep knowledge and experiences, strong community connections and a passion for protecting and preserving Wayne County’s food and agricultural systems.

Your tax-deductible donation will go to help the AST develop a Food and Agriculture Plan to compliment Wayne County Onward so we can support our farmers and protect our irreplaceable, nationally treasured farmland.

Thank you for your support!