American Farmland Trust: State Programs

ranchland at risk in Colorado

Low-density development has more than four million acres of the state's best ranchland in peril, according to a study by American Farmland Trust. These ranchlands represent natural resources that could completely disappear by 2020, greatly impacting the ecological, economic and cultural fabric of local communities. more

guide helps farmers and ranchers combat agricultural land loss

American Farmland Trust and Coleman Natural Foods have produced the Rocky Mountain Agricultural Landowners Guide (PDF) to provide Colorado farmers and ranchers with information about the variety of options available to help them conserve their land and improve its productivity. more

Growing Local: Connecting Farms and Food

Every day we are losing important urban-edge farmland that supplies 86 percent of U.S. fruits and vegetables. Our Growing Local campaign builds healthy communities by protecting local farm and ranch land and supporting access to fresh, local food.

Support the local farms and food initiative by taking the Local Food Pledge.
Spread the message of “No Farms, No Food” with a free bumper sticker.

Agriculture & Environment: Protecting our natural resources

In collaborating with farmers, environmentalists, and policy makers, our Agriculture and Environment initiative protects water quality and reduces climate change while improving the economic viability of farming.

Take action to support the BMP Challenge and help farmers decrease nitrogen applications and reduce fertilizer contamination of local watersheds.
Send an AFT eCard and inspire family and friends to protect the environment.

The Apple as Planet Earth

Do you know how much of the earth is suitable for farming? Watch this short animated presentation and learn why protecting our farmland is so important.

A new farm bill, what’s in it for Colorado?

After years of work, we have a new 2008 Farm Bill. What does it mean for you and your community? From the foods we eat, to protecting farms from development, to helping keep our drinking water clean—the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 has many programs that affect all of us everyday.

What’s in the new farm bill and why is it important?
Find out what’s next for the farm bill and how we can make sure the promises made in the legislation are turned into programs on the ground.
Take an in-depth look at Colorado's agricultural profile on a state and district level, and learn how much agriculture contributes to the state's economy.