The Rural Living Handbook is intended to introduce current and prospective rural land owners to various available resources. The increased independence and self sufficiency of rural life entails a heightened need for self reliance and strong relationships w
ith neighbors. Often, newcomers accustomed to services normally provided by urban governments are shocked by the hard work required to manage rural property. This can lie in stark contrast to idyllic images of country living.
The Handbook contains a list of agencies and organizations that can assist in clarifying regulations, policies, rights, and planning decisions as people transition to living in rural Jackson County. It provides answers to general questions on land use planning, gardening, livestock management, and wildlife concerns. The Resource Directory is helpful in directing people to assistance with the natural resource management of their property.
The rural living handbook was first published in December, 2005. Developed by the Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District with funding through a Title III Grant from Jackson County and a private sponsor, it was a collaboration of county organizations and individuals and was created to answer the recurring questions posed by people interested in living a more rural lifestyle.
A second edition is planned.
To view the Jackson County Rural Living Handbook, use the links in the right-hand column of this page. The links are in order as they apprear in the publication.
The entire Rural Living Handbook (it's a large file, 2.3 MB) can be downloaded here.
It's in
PDF format, and requires the free Acrobat Reader, available here. 
In Windows, right click the link above and choose "Save Target As..."
In Macintosh, hold down the control key when you click the link above.