Residents in Shenandoah County are asking officials to protect agricultural land and help farmers.

The county's Community Planning Project held its first public forum to discuss the comprehensive plan Tuesday night.

Residents said they wanted to create a larger farmers' market where they could buy food and supplies from local farms.

They also warned officials to avoid too much growth and suburban sprawl. Residents said growth should be centered between Interstate 81 and Route 11.

The county will have three more public forums to help adjust the comprehensive plan. The next one will take place October 15 at Central High School in Woodstock at 7 p.m.