Sec. 7(a).2. - Purpose.

The purpose of this section is to create sustainable and generational farming by redefining traditional farming such that local farms can be preserved, protected and maintained in the Town of Exeter, consistent with the Exeter Comprehensive Plan as follows:

• • A. To support farmland preservation that provides community benefits from a vibrant farm sector balanced with protection of the open agricultural landscape that is a character trait of this rural community.

  • B. Preserve the agricultural history and economic benefits of commercial agriculture in the Town of Exeter, RI.

  • C. Support the merging of modern technology and farm operations with traditional agricultural operations and agri-business.

  • D. Provide greater design flexibility in addressing evolving agricultural practices in a balanced way within the community.

  • E. Promote agricultural practices that reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, energy efficiency and increase farmland productivity.

  • F. Protect areas of the town with productive agricultural soils for continued or future agricultural use by retaining prime agricultural soils and allowing for efficient farm operations and activities.

  • G. Create new market segments that give farmers flexibility to be financially stable and allow for generational succession.

  • H. To implement a regulatory framework that allows medium- to large scale farms to diversify their operations and generate additional income streams. This system is designed to maintain equilibrium; it gives farmers the ability to innovate and explore entrepreneurial prospects while safeguarding the fundamental functions of farming and the overall rural character of Exeter.

(Ord. of 7-7-2025(1))