The definition of agriculture is and has been for thousands of years, the cultivation of animals, plants, fungi, and other life forms for food, fiber, and other products used to sustain human life. The word “agriculture” is the English adaptation of Latin agricultura, from ager, “a field” and cultura, “cultivation” in the strict sense of “tillage of the soil”. Thus, a literal reading of the word yields “tillage of fields.”
Prince William County is now preparing (with the Special Use Permit -SUP #PLN2012-00334) to make a decision that will set a precedent to change the definition of “agriculture” in this county, and our Comprehensive Plan and Zoning regulations, to include a recycling and landscaping supply business as an agriculture use. Approval of this SUP will forge the change to the definition and character of the rural area of Prince William County. If Madera Farm was truly a “farm,” there would be no need for an SUP.
This SUP will be the first of many SUP’s submitted for heavy industrial uses that will come from the purchase of “cheap” or less expensive agricultural land in the rural area of the county, and converted to industrial uses. These industrial sites will change the face of the rural area, and will increase the traffic on our narrow, already heavily used, country roads with many more tractor trailers and dump trucks.
Instead of encouraging land-use opportunities that would benefit farmers and landowners and supporting the production of agricultural crops on the existing farm land, the approval of an industrial landscaping supply business and other industrial uses through Special Use Permits, the Planning Commissioners and the Board of County Supervisors, would be allowing our rural area to become exactly what was purported would never happen while they were in office.
Everyone was “on board” to keep the Rural Crescent rural, as was approved by the Comprehensive Plan. And yet now, it seems “political winds” have changed. Is the preservation of the rural area not so important now?
“Political will” has created the Rural Crescent… now, it seems that “political will” is about to destroy what is left of the farm land in the rural area of the county and replace it with industrial sites. Approval of industrial operations, such as the Madera Farm SUP, in the rural area will set the stage for further erosion of the preservation of the rural area. There are approximately 80,000 acres in the rural area of Prince William County, all of which are affected by this pending action.
The BOCS recently handled a controversial issue regarding the widening of Purcell Road in the Coles District at their meeting March 5, 2013, in a manner that was both beneficial and satisfactory to the citizens who live in that area. This issue was resolved through community action, led by residents who objected to a road that would open neighborhoods to significant cut-through traffic without addressing local traffic problems.
Citizens should look for a similar outcome in Nokesville at Madera Farm, which can happen only if residents speak out to protect the character of the County’s Rural Crescent. Share your views at the Public Hearing and Planning Commission vote for the Madera Farm Special Use Permit #PLN2012-00334 on Wednesday, March 20, 7 p.m. at McCoart Government Center, Board Chambers.
-Melinda Masters, Brentsville District
Recent Stories
Seven-month-old Zeke has been growing up in his foster home, eagerly awaiting a family to call his own.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in style with Virginia’s best street brass band, Elby Brass! Reclaim Arcade is hosting a night of revelry featuring masks, beads, and all your favorite retro arcade games.
The February 19, 2025, Prince William County School Board meeting devolved into a shouting match between board members Loree Williams of Woodbridge and Erica Tredinnick of Brentsville. Williams refused to acknowledge Tredinnick as a black woman as part of her Black History Month statement.
In December 2024, Northeastern Supply, a plumbing, HVAC, PVF, and water system supplies distributor, opened its new location at 9751 Center Street in the former Southern States feed store building.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
