in Mississippi

important roles that federal and state governments play as leaders and partners in advancing
Smart Growth principles at the local level.
Farmland Protection
In 1981, the National Agricultural Land Study found that the nation was converting millions of
acres of farmland in the United States each year. This study identified the need for Congress to
implement programs and policies to protect farmland and combat urban sprawl and the waste of
energy and resources that accompanies sprawling development. Congress passed the Agriculture
and Food Act of 1981 containing the Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA). (75 C.F.R. § 658)
The purpose of the FPPA is to minimize the impact Federal programs have on the unnecessary
conversion of farmland to nonagricultural uses. To the extent possible, it assures that the federal
government administers its programs to be compatible with state, local units of government, and
private programs and policies to protect farmland. Federal agencies are required to develop and
review their policies and procedures to implement the FPPA every two years.
The FPPA does not authorize the Federal Government to regulate the use of private or
nonfederal land. For the purpose of FPPA, farmland includes prime farmland, unique farmland,
and land of statewide or local importance. Farmland subject to FPPA requirements does not have
to be currently used for cropland. It can be forestland, pastureland, cropland, or other land, but
not water or urban built-up land.
Mississippi Farmland Preservation
In Mississippi, the state allows local county and city governments to regulate activities on land as
long as the regulation promotes the health, safety, morals, or general welfare of the area.
Additionally, any county or city government has the authority to divide areas into zones to
further the purpose of government business. However, a local government cannot regulate the
zoning of agricultural lands concerning the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration,
repair, or use of buildings, structures, or land. (Code, § 17-1-7)
In addition, the state prohibits local and county governments from requiring permits with
reference to land used for agricultural purposes or for the erection, maintenance, repair, or
extension of farm buildings or farm structures outside the corporate limits of municipalities.
(Code, § 17-1-3)
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Environmental justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless
of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and
enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. The achievement of environmental
justice within counties and municipalities hinges on providing residents with opportunities for
meaningful public involvement regarding local environmental decisions.
247