NSW Farmers has welcomed the NSW Land and Environment Court's decision to reject a coal mining project on prime agricultural land in the Bylong Valley.
"It's gratifying to see the agricultural value of quality land like the Bylong Valley recognised and preserved," said NSW Farmers Mudgee Branch Chair David Clarke.
"Farming families returning to Bylong will start to rebuild a shattered local community with certainty returned."
Korean company KEPCO lost its appeal last week to overturn a decision by the state's Independent Planning Commission to not approve the controversial project.
"It's time to redress the rundown of agricultural production now the coal mine is off the table. The best way to do this is for KEPCO to divest its holdings to genuine farmers and livestock producers."
"The current low level of local food and fibre production achieved with limited resources dedicated to agricultural production has led to a poor economic, social and environmental outcome."
Mr Clarke said NSW Farmers is not opposed to mining but does insist it must not occur at the expense of productive agricultural land, water resources and the environment.
"I recognise that short term economic and employment opportunities will be negatively impacted by this decision, however, over time this will prove to be the correct decision."
"How can we ever expect to increase our ability to feed and provide natural fibre to an increasing population if we don't protect valuable land and water resources?"
