SVN, Rockingham CAP and Shenandoah Forum believe local zoning decisions should remain with local elected officials and that local governments can better address farm interests and issues of local concern.

SB51 and HB 268 would allow any and all commercial activities on farms. The legislation is not the right way to build a strong, thriving local farm economy in Virginia.

In December, 2010, Shenandoah County officials adopted a Rural Areas Plan – tighter zoning in rural areas, voluntary programs in land protection and close planning coordination with officials in the county’s seven towns – to help keep the county rural…