The VPC celebrated 50 years of land use planning in 2012. The organization began back in 1962 when a group of brave, dedicated and creative individuals had the foresight to hire a team of professional environmental planners to forecast and direct growth in the area and recommend steps to preserve the outstanding natural resources and farmland in northern Baltimore County. The five decades of work are described and memorialized in a film marking the 50th anniversary entitled “Designing With Nature: The Plan for the Valleys.” The film has beautiful scenery and important facts, and also serves as an introduction for new residents and younger generations who may wonder how this beautiful area was spared from sprawl development. Copies of the film are available on DVD for $20. Please support the work of the VPC by making a gift to the Annual Fund, and spread the word on the good works by sharing the film with friends, neighbors and colleagues.