Maryland Permanently Preserves 4 Additional Working Farms

516 Acres of Additional Farmland Protected Forever

ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 13, 2025) – In a continued effort to protect Maryland’s agricultural heritage, the Maryland Board of Public Works has approved four new easements through the Maryland Agricultural Preservation Foundation adding approximately 516 acres of preserved prime farmland across Somerset, Washington, Kent, and Wicomico counties.

“Preserving our farmland is crucial for Maryland’s future,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “Farmers who choose to protect their land are ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the agricultural resources we value so much. This investment not only boosts our local economy but also enhances food security and promotes sustainability in our communities.”

Established in 1977 as part of the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Maryland Agricultural Preservation Foundation works to purchase agricultural preservation easements from willing farmers. This commitment helps to protect prime farmland and woodland indefinitely. The newly approved easements will help maintain the state’s agricultural landscape, support local food production, and sustain rural livelihoods.

This new initiative continues Maryland’s momentum towards conservation, following the successful achievement of the 30% by 2030 goal as outlined in the Maryland the Beautiful Act, passed in the 2023 Session by the Maryland General Assembly. These easements will also contribute to the next goal of conserving 40% of state land by 2040.

For more information, please contact the foundation’s Executive Director, Michelle Cable, at (410) 841-5860 or michelle.cable@maryland.gov. 

###