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21 <br />The same would apply to rural landowners whose lands are in critical watershed areas. Yes, <br />those areas should be protected from development, but the current landowners should be <br />compensated for providing that protection. <br />Confining residential and commercial development to designated areas, particularly along <br />current and future transportation corridors, makes sense. Agricultural communities would thus be <br />protected from excess encroachment by urban sprawl. Farmland could remain a productive asset <br />to the larger community, and farming a viable part of the local economy. Critical watersheds <br />could be protected by environmentally sound farming practices. The community as a whole <br />would benefit, therefore the costs should be born by the community as a whole. Such planning is <br />necessary, and rural landowners must be fairly compensated for participating in such a plan. <br />Ken Dawson <br />Cedar Grove, NC <br />Farmer <br />President, Durham Farmers Market, Inc. <br />Past President, Carrboro Farmers Market, Inc <br />2of16 <br />