Beginning March 1, through March 30, 2005; Ulster County will accept applications to add "viable agricultural land" to existing State Certified Agricultural Districts. Wayne Harris, Chairman of the Economic Development/Education, Tourism & Cultural Affairs Committee noted, "this program is part of the Legislature’s efforts to ensure that agriculture remains viable and that farmers can continue their activities throughout the County."

Landowners seeking inclusion into a Agricultural District will be asked to complete an Ag District Review Worksheet, provide tax map identification number(s), copies of the relevant portion of the tax map, and a description of the lands and farm activities. The Ulster County Agricultural Farmland Protection Board will review these materials as part of its recommendations to the Legislature. To receive a Worksheet, brochure or more information about the review process, please contact Teresa Rusinek, Horticulture/Ag Issue Educator, 845-340-3990 or visit the Cornell Cooperative Extension website at - www.cce.cornell.edu/~Ulster/ and click on Ag District Information.

Landowners should be aware that significant "right to farm" protection is afforded lands within Agricultural Districts where local regulation of farm practices are limited by State Law. Inclusion is a District also provides agricultural uses relief from ad valorum levies such as imposed by water and sewer districts, as well as protection from public investments that encourage non-farm development, and eminent domain.

Ulster County established the opportunity to add lands to Districts on an annual basis in 2004. The Legislature approved the addition of 1,163 acres consisting of 36 parcels to Districts in this initial year. These additions have been certified by the State.