From the Desk of the County Manager, October 2, 2026
Greetings, Durham!
Durham continues to evolve as a community, one where we honor our history as a place built on the lands of five Native American tribes, and where innovation from successful start-ups and global science and technology enterprises converges. Twice this year, I’ve shared how Durham County has been intentional about protecting our farmland and natural landscapes, including our celebration of 25 years of farmland protection in Durham in 2026.
The Updated Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Plan
Most recently, the Farmland Protection Advisory Board presented the updated Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Plan, the first update since the original plan was created in December 2009. The Durham County Board of Commissioners approved the plan at its September 14, 2026, meeting. This update was made possible through a grant received and administered by Soil & Water staff through the NC Ag Development & Farmland Preservation Trust Fund.
The farms within Durham's open landscapes do more than add to their beauty. Farmland helps preserve our community’s green spaces, protects our soil and water, and produces fresh food for local tables. By continuing to invest in diverse agricultural assets, we ensure that as Durham grows, our community stays healthy and thriving.
Rooted in Partnership
I want to thank our residents and community partners who contributed their time and input through surveys and community meetings. This plan would not exist without the hard work of the Farmland Protection Advisory Board and the leadership of County staff in the Soil & Water Department who helped shape it with additional support from our Open Space and Cooperative Extension staff.
The plan addresses both the strengths and the ever-present challenges facing agriculture in Durham and across our state, examines broader trends in the agriculture industry, and recommends solutions.
The reality: Growth has changed farmland and resulted in farmland loss in Durham and across NC. Farmers cite land access, property costs, succession planning, and infrastructure as major hurdles. Because access to land and support programs remains uneven, the plan points to providing more focused support for new and emerging farmers.
The good news: Smaller farms selling to local customers have become a growing part of the farm economy. Durham County programs, such as Agricultural Economic Development Grants and Farmland Protection Program, have made a difference for farmers and farmland conservation.
Special thanks to Nicole Connelly of Toad Hill Farm, who serves as chair of the Farmland Protection Advisory Board. Reflecting on the progress made since the first plan, she notes in the plan’s introduction, “The updated Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Plan builds on this progress, outlining our current landscape and key priorities moving forward. This includes protecting farmland and supporting new farmers with access to land, resources, and community -- ensuring that all Durham residents can benefit from a vibrant local food system and stronger local economy.”
Donna Rewalt, Durham County Cooperative Extension Director, adds, “This plan reminds us that farming isn’t Durham County’s past. It’s our agricultural future. Since our last plan 16 years ago, Durham County has made real progress, from our agricultural grant program to the work underway on the Durham County Farm Campus, and this update builds on that momentum. We are committed to keeping these recommendations front and center as we strengthen programs for farmland preservation and farmer support, and to sharing progress regularly so residents can see this plan in action.”
From Land to Legacy: The Plan’s Key Recommendations
The recommendations focus on five key areas essential to sustaining agriculture in Durham County:
- Land Protection - Protect farmland through conservation easements and outreach to new landowners.
- Planning and Government - Update the Farmland Preservation Ordinance and strengthen coordination with the City of Durham on development.
- Community Benefits of Agriculture - Elevate local farms and advance food security.
- Agricultural Economic Development - Invest in the infrastructure that supports an agricultural economy, from warehouse facilities to the Farm Campus incubator farm.
- Next Generation - Ensure the next generation of farmers has the tools they need, from education and transition planning to mentorship.
Durham County remains committed to preserving farmland, championing farmers, and protecting our agricultural roots for generations. I encourage you to read the full plan.
Until next week,
Claudia Hager
Durham County Manager