By Blake Jackson
The Shapiro Administration announced a significant investment in Pennsylvania's future by preserving over 2,250 acres of farmland across 28 farms in 15 counties. This initiative, funded by an $8.07 million investment, ensures these lands will remain available for agricultural use and won't be developed for residential or commercial purposes.
"Preserving prime farmland is crucial not just for our food supply, but also for our way of life and economic prosperity," explained Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. Pennsylvania's location near major transportation hubs makes its farmland highly attractive to developers. This program safeguards these valuable resources for future generations.
Pennsylvania leads the nation in farmland preservation efforts. Since 1988, the Farmland Preservation Program has protected over 6,364 farms and 636,625 acres from development. This achievement represents a combined investment of more than $1.7 billion from state, county, and local sources.
The program works through partnerships between the state, counties, and sometimes local governments and nonprofits. These partnerships allow farmers to sell their development rights while retaining ownership and continuing their agricultural operations.
The announcement highlighted two examples of such dedication. The Eisenhour family in York County preserved their sixth and seventh farms, bringing their total protected acreage to over 1,000. Similarly, the McKlveen family in Westmoreland County honored the wishes of the late Lee McKlveen by preserving their family farm. These families demonstrate a commitment to both their legacy and the future of Pennsylvania agriculture.
This latest round of farmland preservation complements other state initiatives that support farmers and promote conservation. These include the $154 million Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program, Clean & Green tax breaks, and Resource Enhancement and Protection funding.
Pennsylvania's leadership in farmland preservation extends beyond its borders. The state recently secured a $7.85 million federal grant to support climate-smart conservation practices on preserved farms.
By safeguarding its agricultural land, Pennsylvania is investing in a sustainable future for its citizens, its economy, and the environment.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy