Owners of agricultural land in Jefferson County can add their parcels to existing agricultural districts between June 1 and June 30.

The potential benefits include protections against some restrictive local laws, government-funded purchases or construction projects and private nuisance suits involving agricultural practices. There are three agricultural districts in Jefferson County that span 19 towns and about 188,000 acres.

To apply, call the county Department of Planning at 785-3144 and ask for the 2008 Agricultural Individual Inclusion Form. The application is also available on the county's Web site, co.jefferson.ny.us, in its news section.

For more information, call Michael J. Bourcy, community development coordinator, at the county Planning Department.