54 Forrest Rd, Mertztown, PA 19539

Agriculture Preservation District

The agriculture in the Township is a unique non-replaceable natural resource, which needs to be recognized by the community and preserved for the benefit of the residents of the Township. This proposition of preservation of agricultural farmlands and open space is founded upon the following policy considerations: The agricultural farmlands and open space within the Township is a valuable natural resource, which is valuable for the health, safety and welfare of the Township residents; The soils, topography and historical experience of the Township have established the Township as a producer of agricultural goods and products; The aesthetic value of the agriculture within the Township is of special significance to the residents of the Township and the surrounding municipalities; The present character of the agriculture of the Township mandates that it be recognized as an economic resource, necessary of preservation; In the interest of public health, safety and welfare, the Agriculture Preservation Zoning District is further designed and intended to accomplish the following: To protect and preserve the agricultural base in the areas of productive soils; To permit only those land uses and activities, which are agriculture related and advance agricultural purposes; To encourage the preservation of the prime productive farmland within the Township; To prevent adverse effects which may result from the encroachment and commingling of residential and other incompatible development and land uses with agricultural uses.