Wayne Co. Planning Department keeps trying to protect farmland
The Biggios, Maryanna, third from left, and Tony, fourth from the right, pose with friends and neighbors, the Slaters, who own adjacent parcels of land enrolled in the ASA, and the Redick family, who have farmed the land for several generations, to renew their Agriculture Security Area land designation.
At a time when development threatens farmland, Wayne County stands out as a leader in preserving agricultural land through its eight Agricultural Security Areas, totaling over 11,000 acres, more than half the 17,650 acres of ASAs statewide.
Agricultural Security Areas are voluntary land-use agreements allowing farmers and local governments to limit nonagricultural development in designated zones. By preserving contiguous land, ASAs help maintain farm viability.
The ASA program, established by the Ohio Department of Agriculture in 2005, invites voluntary participation by landowners. It designates blocks of at least 500 contiguous acres where farming is promoted and safeguarded from nonfarm development such as road construction. Wayne County launched its first ASAs in 2008 and now boasts more of these protected zones than any other county in Ohio.
Jenn Kiper, director of the Wayne County Planning Department, plays a pivotal role in facilitating the formation of new ASA entities. When neighboring farmers identify suitable land, Kiper’s team guides them through the multi-step application process, which includes preparing maps, filing documents, organizing public hearings, and securing approval from townships and county commissioners. The Wayne Soil and Water Conservation District reviews applications to ensure compliance with best-management practices.
“Our team is here to support and guide landowners through the process of becoming an ASA,” Kiper said. “We want neighbors to talk about the future of their land and to take steps to ensure its future remains in agriculture. So far Wayne County’s ASAs have created that momentum, preserving more farmland than any other county in Ohio.”
Township trustees and county commissioners commit not to initiate, approve or finance any development for residential, commercial or industrial purposes including the construction of new roads or water and sewer lines within the ASA for 10 years.
After 10 years the ASA must be renewed; however, during the active period, participants become eligible for tax exemptions on newly constructed agricultural structures, offering economic incentives to expand farming operations. In addition, marked signage declares the farmer’s commitment to maintaining the land in agricultural use, reinforcing community awareness and pride.
Local landowners Maryanna and her husband Tony Biggio exemplify the dedication that has contributed to Wayne County’s success in farmland protection. A longtime advocate for preservation, Maryanna volunteered with the Wayne County Planning Department in the early 2000s to support efforts to preserve farmland.
In 2009 the couple joined their neighbors and enrolled several Chester Township farms in one of the county’s first ASAs. Although that initial designation eventually expired, the Biggios recently re-enrolled their land along with larger parcels owned by the Slater family and installed one of the county’s new ASA designation signs.
“We have lived on this farm for 53 years,” Maryanna said. “The land has been farmed for several generations by our neighbors and friends, the Redicks. We feel privileged to know these rich soils will always be agriculturally and economically viable.”
The Biggios’ commitment to conservation runs deep. In 2000 Maryanna joined a group of concerned citizens to help found the Killbuck Watershed Land Trust, which now permanently protects over 4,000 acres in Wayne County.
Studies from the American Farmland Trust emphasize the broader benefits of such conservation efforts. Farmland provides critical ecosystem services — ranging from clean water and climate resilience to food security — and keeping farmers on the land is key to sustaining local economies.
For those interested in learning more, ordering ASA signs or starting the enrollment process, email the Wayne County Planning Department at AgPlan@WayneOhio.org or call 330-287-5422.
Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.