It is the intent and purpose of the Legislature to encourage the conservation, protection and responsible utilization of lands that are managed for purposes of agricultural production. It is recognized that such lands are finite, fragile and valuable resources that contribute economically and socially to the well-being of the State of Mississippi. It is also recognized that these lands are subject to change and conversion from agricultural production as a result of urban expansion, transportation projects, water impoundments, utility expansion and similar land development measures. It is the policy of the Legislature to provide a process for the recognition of lands dedicated to agricultural production and to assure an accurate understanding of the impacts of public policy decisions that might otherwise alter the capability of those lands to remain in agricultural production. Laws, 1997, ch. 469, § 1, eff. 7/1/1997.
Mississippi Legal Code