The farmland preservation program purchases agricultural easements on operating farmland in Montgomery County, PA. After the easement is purchased, the owner keeps the land, which must remain in farming in perpetuity.
Some benefits of preserving a farm include direct financial help for the owners to support operations and the reduction of estate and inheritance taxes for those looking to pass on the farm to future generations. Preserved farmland is also more affordable for young farmers to purchase, guarantees a future food supply, and ensures a cherished way of life for the future.
Farms applying for preservation must meet minimum criteria to be eligible for the program. To apply for the program, a farm must:
- Contain the greater of 50 percent or 10 acres of land in agricultural production.
- Be a member of an Agricultural Security Area (ASA) consisting of 500 acres or more, which can be done through your municipality. Not sure you're in a local ASA? We can provide more information on how to join.
Montgomery County has preserved 177 farms (over 10,00 acres total). Pennsylvania is a leader nationwide in farmland preservation, with over 5,800 farms and 599,000 acres preserved, and aids preserved farm owners in business planning and family transitions.