DIVISION OF AGRICULTURAL LAND USE 

 Susan Redlich, Director 



The Division of Agricultural Land Use works to promote the wise use of the 

 natural resources essential to agriculture — land, soil, and water — and to ensure 

 the protection and availability of these resources for those who work the land, 

 both rural and urban. The fragile and finite nature of these natural resources 

 necessitates their long term conservation in order to produce food for the citizens 

 of the Commonwealth, maintain the viability of the farm economy, and safeguard the 

 quality of our natural environment. 



To further these objectives, during the past year, the Division was instrumental 

 in the formation of the Suffolk County Conservation District, which will enable 

 interested residents of Suffolk County to become involved in the conservation of 

 the land, soil, and water of Suffolk County. The Division also facilitated the 

 distribution and planting of thousands of food bearing trees and shrubs on public 

 lands as part of the Massachusetts Fruition Program. The Massachusetts Seed Pro- 

 gram was also effectively carried out and this program provided low-cost seeds to 

 low income, elderly, and beginning gardeners, greatly facilitating home food pro- 

 duction. 



The Division has also been involved with an extensive natural resource mapping 

 project of state-owned institutional lands. The maps will be used in making 

 planning decisions for the future use of these properties. By carrying out its 

 numerous projects and activities, the Division also provided training and educational 

 opportunities for a number of student interns. 



The Division continued to coordinate and promote Boston area farmers markets, 

 and organize and secure land for community gardens. The Division also takes an 

 active role in the state's environmental review process and advocates the protection 

 of agricultural land. 



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