Pennsylvania Invests $5.7M to Preserve 24 Farms

By Blake Jackson

The Shapiro Administration has announced that Pennsylvania is investing over $5.7 million to purchase development rights for 2,079 acres across 24 farms in 14 counties.

This joint effort between state and local governments ensures these farms will remain protected from residential or commercial development, preserving critical farmland for future generations.

Since the Shapiro Administration took office, Pennsylvania has invested more than $140 million to safeguard 472 farms and 39,273 acres of prime farmland.

“When farms are sold to become warehouses or housing developments, they are gone forever, along with the food, fuel, and fiber they produced,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.

“High-quality farmland is one of Pennsylvania’s most valuable economic assets. The Shapiro Administration continues to stand up for Pennsylvania’s farmers, not just with words but with actions, investing to protect our priceless land, water, and soil resources, and fund the innovations that will keep Pennsylvania farmers competitive and sustain their farms tomorrow.”

Governor Josh Shapiro emphasizes that agriculture is not only part of Pennsylvania’s heritage but also a cornerstone of its economy. Nearly 50,000 farms generate $132.5 billion and support nearly 600,000 jobs statewide.

The proposed 2025-26 budget includes $13 million for the Agricultural Innovation Grant, $2 million to sustain the state’s western animal diagnostic laboratory, $4 million for the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System, and $4 million for the State Food Purchase Program.

Today’s easement purchases build on other conservation efforts like the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP), which has assisted over 2,000 farmers in improving management practices to enhance soil and water health.

Since the creation of Pennsylvania’s Farmland Preservation Program in 1988, the state has preserved 6,621 farms and 658,681 acres across 58 counties, investing over $1.78 billion. By selling development rights, farm owners ensure their lands remain productive and protected from development.

As realtor Patricia L. Stewart, owner of a 67-acre Lehigh County farm approved for preservation, notes, state, county, and township support allows her to continue producing crops for future generations, shielding her farm from development pressures.

This initiative highlights Pennsylvania’s ongoing commitment to farmland preservation, food security, and the sustainability of its agricultural economy.

A total of $5,710,173 was invested at PA Agricultural Land Preservation Board Meeting to preserve the farms listed here, with details provided by county.

Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer