The Bainbridge Island Land Trust and Friends of the Farms have signed a formal “letter of understanding” that outlines the roles each nonprofit will play in future attempts to preserve or acquire agricultural land on Bainbridge Island.

The two organizations share similar missions to protect open space, and officials from the two groups say the island’s future will be enhanced by an increased amount of protected agricultural land.

“We’re delighted with this agreement to help guide future work with Friends of the Farms,” said Jane Stone, executive director of the Bainbridge Island Land Trust. “It is a great example of how we can work together and continue to preserve the special character of the island.”

“Farming is deeply rooted in our local cultural and ethnic heritage,” added Heather Burger, executive director of Friends of the Farms.

“It is a tradition that built this island and is key to its future as our community grapples with commercial sprawl and a lack of locally produced food,” Burger added. “We look forward to collaborating with the Bainbridge Island Land Trust to protect existing farmland from development, increase the amount of land being farmed, and ensure local agriculture thrives in perpetuity.”

Officials said this collaboration will help make sure that all parties – the organizations, the landowners and the community – can maximize the benefits of protected farmland.

The Bainbridge Island Land Trust is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and stewarding the diverse natural environment of Bainbridge Island for the benefit of all. Friends of the Farms nonprofit that works to preserve and enhance local farming.