Agricultural Resources
Agriculture is an important industry in Whatcom County. Large and small farmers contribute to the over 500 million dollar market value of agricultural production coming from our county. This page offers a variety of resources for agricultural producers in Whatcom County.
Whatcom County Programs and Projects
Farmland Preservation
The Conservation Easement Program (previously named the Purchase of Development Rights program) is a voluntary program that compensates property owners for the value of their unused development rights.
Environmental Stewardship
The Conservation on Agricultural Lands (CPAL) program gives farmers and ranchers (including hobby farmers) an alternative to the standard regulations of the Critical Areas Ordinance. Through development of a custom Farm Plan and Best Management Practices (BMPs), agricultural activities may be practiced in areas where they would otherwise be restricted.
Agricultural Property Tax Reduction
Whatcom County offers multiple programs for property tax reduction related to agricultural land use. The Open Space Current Use Program is administered by Whatcom County Planning and Development Services, while the Open Space Farm and Agricultural Land program is administered by the Whatcom County Assessor's Office.
Agricultural Policy and Community Engagement
The Agricultural Advisory Committee (AAC) provides review and recommendations to the Whatcom County Council on issues that affect agriculture and provides a forum for farmers and others interested in enhancing and promoting the long-term viability of Whatcom County agriculture. The Whatcom County Food System Committee drafts, implements, provides oversight for, and regularly updates a countywide Food System Plan. All committee members serve on a voluntary capacity.
Agricultural Research
For nearly a century, WSU Whatcom County Extension has worked with local agriculture producers to bring research-based information to improve the productivity, efficiency, economic well-being, and safety of products produced in this diverse agricultural community.
Food Safety
Whatcom County Health & Community Services works with food establishments, events, farmers market vendors, farmstands, and more to make sure their facilities are safe for preparing and selling food. Wholesale food processing and cottage food businesses are regulated by the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
Water Rights & Adjudication
At the direction of the Washington State Legislature, the Washington State Department of Ecology is preparing to file a water rights adjudication in Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 1 Nooksack Basin. The Washington State Legislature is providing funding to Whatcom County to develop and implement outreach and provide filing assistance to the water users involved. Whatcom County Public Works is the department administering this assistance.
