The Ag Reserve

One-third of Montgomery County, or 93,000 acres, is designated as the Agricultural Reserve. This unique area of contiguous farmland has special characteristics:

  • The zoning of the Agricultural Reserve (AR zone) limits development to one house per 25 acres;
  • 70,000 acres, or 75% of the land area within the Ag Reserve, is further protected through permanent easements that restrict residential, industrial, and commercial development;
  • 558 farms remain viable in a county with high development pressure and cost of living;
  • 454 farms produce table food crops or products, allowing county residents to enjoy locally produced food;
  • 10,000 horses provide competitive and recreational opportunities for County residents;
  • Views of thousands of acres of rural landscape enjoyed by tourists, bicyclists, hikers, artists, and other visitors