The FMMP map products, as well as acreage statistics from the Farmland Conversion Report, are used for many projects associated with assessment of agricultural land resources. For example, FMMP data is used in elements of some county and city general plans, in environmental documents (California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)) as a way of assessing the impacts on Prime Farmland, and in regional studies on agricultural land conversion. The data is also being applied in urbanization and environmental modeling. Other users include various environmental consultants (including solar or wind
development, and land preservation), grant applicants, and landowners.
Because the mapping process is standardized statewide and the maps have a two-year updating cycle, the delineation of urban and agricultural lands provides an up-to-date baseline for other studies. In conjunction with other digital data, composite maps can be produced which enhance assessment of other geographic features such as wetlands, endangered species ranges, water availability, and various planning boundaries. Here are a few examples of agencies and nonprofits using Important Farmland data in their planning efforts:
There are other types of agricultural statistics which contain information specific to crop type, economic value, or land management. For more information, please see a brief comparison of agricultural statistics collected to determine the status of land or water resources, economic factors, or farming practices.
