Integrated Working Landscape Protection: The Case of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Abstract

Abstract A working landscape differs in many ways from open space. Similarly, the protection of a working landscape involves a different approach than the protection of open space. Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is a growing metropolitan area where agriculture continues to be a leading industry. Both the county government and individual townships have responded with an integrated set of growth management programs aimed at protecting the working landscape. This article analyzes the effectiveness of these programs according to general goals and specific objectives. The article also discusses the potential and constraints for applying the Lancaster County growth management approach to other landscapes in the northeastern United States. Keywords: Agricultural Zoning;Growth Boundaries;Property Taxes