Farmland preservation programs exist in all states. Most programs pursue agricultural objectives, such as preserving productive soils and viable farms. However, in some states the public may believe that programs should pursue broader goals often associated with preserving open space. Focus...

An econometric model that describes public support for farmland preservation programs as a function of local land use patterns and socioeconomic data is developed. Two versions of the model are estimated using data from referenda conducted in Pennsylvania and Rhode Island during 1982 through...

As farmland amenities have become relatively more scarce than food and fibre in developed countries, public concern has shifted away from increasing agricultural production, towards protecting rural environmental quality. Choosing appropriate policies requires accurate information describing...