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Hugoson offers sobering statistics on land loss at Farmfest Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Agri News staff writer
GILFILLAN, Minn. -- Gene Hugoson gave some sobering statistics on land loss at a land use forum during Farmfest.
About a township and a half is lost annually to development, said Minnesota's ag commissioner.
How land is used is an age-old issue, Hugoson said. Landowners believe they should have a say in how their land is used, but others make claims on it. The issue is heightened in light of the food vs. fuel debate.
"No one can force you to grow grass instead of corn," said University of Minnesota economist Steve Taff. "No one can tell you what to do."
If the public wants changes on the landscape, they need to pay farmers to make the changes, he said. The Legislature created programs such as Reinvest in Minnesota to help farmers working.
"If we aren't willing to pay more, then we will have to shut up," Taff said.
There can be a balance between conservation and ag use, Hugoson said.
Minnesota DNR Commissioner Mark Holsten agreed. The DNR is increasing its efforts to help landowners install conservation on their land.
The state is changing dramatically, he said. The area where he grew up and helped neighbors bale hay is gone. It's part of urban development.
"We are not going to get into a debate of whether it will be used for food or fuel," Holsten said. "But we are here to talk about creating another crop to generate an income from and to meet the conservation challenges. We are changing our practices on Minnesota lands and helping other landowners to take advantage of the opportunities."
Minnesota FSA director Perry Aasness noted a shift in crop acreage.
His family farm near Fergus Falls is part of the shift. His family planted small grains and soybeans in the past, but has moved to a corn and soybean rotation.
Panel members were questioned about uncontrolled development and development decisions often left to local government. It's a dicey issue, said Hugoson. Some farmers want to protect the land from development. However, when they retire, they want to sell it for development.
"You can't have it both ways," Hugoson said.
Holsten was asked when "enough is enough" on land acquisition for wetland and wildlife habitat. The ultimate decision is up to the Legislature, he said.
The possibility of using CRP acres to grow grasses for renewable energy was also discussed.
It has tremendous potential, Aasness said. There is a possibility of managed hay and grass cuttings on CRP land.
"What we are looking at is the opportunity for some economic development as a result," he said. "I think there are still some ways we can to do that with CRP." |
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