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11 <br /> AGRICULTURE <br /> The goals of rural preservation which encompass the conservation of prime farmland, the scenic <br /> vistas of agricultural landscapes, the family farm tradition, and the economic viability of <br /> agriculture in Oran ge County are best served by keeping farming profitable. To ensure <br /> integration of agriculture into the County's economic strategies, a partnership between agriculture <br /> and economic development should be created achieve new opportunities for agriculture-related <br /> businesses and the creation of new markets and products for existing agricultural concerns. <br /> ► The EDC should encourage a study to determine the financial viability of farming in <br /> Orange County. The study should focus on ways to improve the financial position of <br /> farmers and should include but not be limited to: low interest debt financing, tax options, <br /> local subsidies, and planning options related to development rights. A comprehensive <br /> survey of local agricultural business should be part of the study. <br /> ► The EDC should work in cooperation with Cooperative Extension, Natural Resource and <br /> Conservation Service, and the Planning Department to develop an outreach program to <br /> inform local citizens about the value and needs of agriculture. <br /> ► The EDC should support the efforts to build a Rural Education Center. The Center can be <br /> the focal point for community information regarding agriculture. The Center can also be a <br />