Applications are now open for Ohio landowners to participate in the Farmland Preservation Program, aimed at permanently preserving agricultural farmland in the state. The Ohio Department of Agriculture‘s Office of Farmland Preservation has announced that it is accepting applications until October 13 for local sponsors interested in being certified for the program.
Under the program, certified local sponsors will receive a portion of the funding available in the Local Agricultural Easement Purchase Program 2024 funds. These funds are specifically designated for the purchase of agricultural easements on Ohio farms, ensuring the land remains dedicated to agricultural use.
Once certified, local sponsors will assist landowners in securing easements through the Office of Farmland Preservation’s Local Agricultural Easement Purchase Program. As part of their responsibilities, certified sponsors will conduct annual visits to the farms and complete monitoring reports to ensure that the land is being utilized for agricultural purposes.
Interested parties can access the application on the Office of Farmland Preservation’s local sponsor page. It is important to note that organizations wishing to be local sponsors for the 2024 landowner application year must also apply during the designated application period. For further information, interested parties can contact the Farmland Preservation Office directly at 614-728-6238 or farmlandpres@agri.ohio.gov.
The Farmland Preservation Program plays a crucial role in preserving Ohio’s agricultural heritage and sustaining their vital farming industry. Through the efforts of local sponsors and the Office of Farmland Preservation, valuable farmland will be protected, ensuring its availability for future generations. Landowners are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity by submitting their applications before the October 13 deadline.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice.
