Farming has been an important part of the landscape since King County’s earliest days, and county leaders want to hear ideas about ensuring the future of agriculture.

The public is invited to help shape the future of agriculture in King County by attending either of two upcoming meetings that are sponsored by the King County Agriculture Commission.

The next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 12 in the city council chambers at Auburn City Hall, 25 West Main St. The meeting runs from 7-9 p.m. The final meeting is set for March 12 in the Commons at Enumclaw High School, 226 Semanski St. S.

Meeting participants will be asked to share their opinions on several important questions, including:

• What specific agricultural activities will most likely contribute to the economic stability of the county’s farm sector?

• How Can King County nurture and promote the business of farming for the future?

• What is the role of King County and other agencies in supporting farming in the future?

• What potential funding sources can be identified, and how can they along with existing funding sources be used to support agriculture?

Information collected during the public meetings will be used in a report to the King County Council relating to the future of agriculture within the county’s agricultural production districts, plus recommendations for legislation regarding the allowed size of agricultural accessory buildings.

Thoughts on the future of farming can also be shared with King County through a short online questionnaire, which can be accessed through the county’s Water and Land Resources Division Web site, http://www.kingcounty.gov/wlr.