To the editor:

 

Dartmouth has an active agricultural sector that has been a large party of what has made the town so attractive to many but it is shrinking.

 

The cost and availability of land as well as increasing production costs have made it difficult for farmers to live here.

 

But there is hope.

 

Massachusetts is in the process of implementing a Farmland Action Plan and is promoting local agriculture.

 

Dartmouth Orchards on Old Fall River Road is the subject of a part of this. This unique and impressive orchard is the subject of a state promotion and deserves special attention. 

 

Please help us preserve and protect this valuable asset and support local agriculture.

 

Sincerely,

 

Fred Dabney