By Blake Jackson
The Shapiro Administration has announced an investment of more than $8.8 million to preserve 2,017 acres of farmland on 33 farms across 16 Pennsylvania counties.
Through a joint effort between state and local governments, these farms will be permanently protected from residential or commercial development, ensuring future generations of farmers have access to high-quality land.
Since Governor Josh Shapiro took office, Pennsylvania has dedicated $134 million to preserve 448 farms, safeguarding 37,194 acres of farmland statewide.
“When farms are replaced by warehouses or housing developments, they are gone forever. Productive, high-quality farmland is one of Pennsylvania’s most valuable natural resources and economic assets,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.
“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 Shapiro’s proposed 2025-26 budget underscores the critical role agriculture plays in the state’s economy. With nearly 50,000 farms contributing $132.5 billion and supporting almost 600,000 jobs, agriculture remains a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s future.
The budget calls for an additional $13 million for the Agricultural Innovation Grant program, $2 million for a new animal diagnostic lab, $4 million to expand the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System, and another $4 million to strengthen the State Food Purchase Program.
The newly approved easements build on conservation programs like the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP), which has already helped more than 2,000 farmers adopt practices that improve soil and water health.
Pennsylvania leads the nation in farmland preservation, protecting 6,597 farms and over 656,000 acres since the program began in 1988. By partnering with counties and nonprofits, the state ensures farmland remains in agricultural use, strengthening food security and rural communities.
The $8.8 million investment was approved during the Pennsylvania Agricultural Land Preservation Board’s recent meeting, with farms preserved in counties including Armstrong, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lackawanna, and Lancaster.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy