I'm also a private pilot and aircraft owner, and I face these issues on that front too. We have lost tens of thousands of airports in this country to suburban encroachment, and the rate has not abated. Using tactics such as "we were there first" have had ZERO effect on the problem; in the end the interlopers win, either through financial enticement, changes in zoning regulations, and/or judicial action. The most effective program for protecting airports is the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's Airport Support Network. It is through advocacy and lobbying
http://www.aopa.org/asn/
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