Study Background 

Placer County officials and managers ordered this study to identify and assess existing county agricultural resources, and determine how these resources could be protected over time. The county wanted to find the most effective ways to implement general plan policies which encourage agricultural lands preservation.

Placer County has a long, proud agricultural history, from its earliest days during the California Gold Rush. The county supports local agriculture efforts and established the Placer Legacy Open Space and Agricultural Conservation Program for that purpose, among others. The county is also growing rapidly in population, primarily in the area covered by this study. While its agricultural land is threatened, Placer County retains a significant amount of agricultural land where the economy is intact and where farmers are a real presence in the community.

Today, 248,399 people live in Placer County. By 2020, the population is projected to grow by over 73%, with an additional 182,000 residents. In western Placer County, land traditionally used for agricultural purposes lies near existing cities and is expected to accommodate much of this population increase. New residents are increasingly drawn to areas beyond the city's edge, where quality of life is seen as high due to the abundant natural amenities and small-town character.

For further information on the study, contact the Agriculture Department at 530-889-7372, or by email - placerag@placer.ca.gov.