Montgomery County Preserves 200th Farm in Milestone Effort

By Blake Jackson

Montgomery County has reached a major farmland protection milestone by permanently preserving its 200th farm through the Montgomery County Agricultural Land Preservation Program. The achievement was marked with the preservation of Sitko Tree Farm, the first farm in Lower Pottsgrove Township to enter the program. Since its launch in 1990, the county has safeguarded nearly 11,000 acres of farmland.

The Agricultural Land Preservation Program works by purchasing conservation easements from working farms, ensuring the land remains in agricultural use forever, even when ownership changes.

Farmers continue to own and operate their properties, while preservation guarantees long-term access to locally produced food, agritourism experiences, and open landscapes for future generations.

“With 200 farms preserved in Montgomery County, we are committing to our vital agricultural sector and all it provides for the community, from fresh food to family bonding experiences,” said Neil K. Makhija, Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners.

“Farms have been an integral part of Montgomery County’s history, and through our Farmland Preservation Program, we have ensured that our agricultural economy will thrive for many generations to come. This isn’t just preserving land. It’s preserving a family legacy.”

Pennsylvania continues to lead the nation in farmland preservation, with more than 6,600 farms and over 661,000 acres protected statewide. Montgomery County surpassed 10,000 preserved acres in 2021.

“Sitko Tree Farm has been creating holiday memories for Montgomery County families for over 100 years,” said Jamila H. Winder, Vice Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. “Through this preservation program, many more generations of Montco residents will have access to experiences like these while our local agricultural economy remains strong and resilient.”

Sitko Tree Farm, owned by fourth-generation farmers Gerald and Ruthann Sitko, has sold Christmas trees since 1920. The 46-acre farm also features a retail store offering wreaths and seasonal décor.

“Montgomery County residents love having access to local farms that offer fresh food, scenic views, and memorable experiences,” said Thomas DiBello, Montgomery County Commissioner. “This program is a worthwhile, lasting investment in preserving Montgomery County’s beautiful farmland and supporting our local economy.”

The county’s Agricultural Land Preservation Board continues to identify and protect farmland vulnerable to development through voluntary participation in the program.

Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer