Ann Arbor Seeks Federal Funds to Protect Over 300 Acres of Farmland in Surrounding Townships
Ann Arbor, Michigan is taking steps to preserve its farmland and protect the environment through its greenbelt program. The city council has voted unanimously to seek federal funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the purchase of conservation easements on over 300 acres of land in neighboring townships.
The first property on the list is a 108-acre farm owned by the Hamilton family in Salem Township. With its substantial size and high-quality farmland, the preservation of this property is a priority for the city. Rosie Pahl Donaldson, the city’s land acquisition supervisor for the greenbelt program, emphasized the significance of protecting land of this nature.
Another property earmarked for preservation is the 75-acre St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church farm in Northfield Township. This farm is located adjacent to 240 acres of already protected land through existing greenbelt conservation easements. Pahl Donaldson highlighted not only its size and quality but also its scenic value.
The third property on the list is the 63-acre Fishbeck farm in Superior Township. Situated near another protected property, this farm adds to the growing efforts of the city to safeguard agricultural land in the region.
Last but not least, Ann Arbor aims to protect the 65-acre Ehnis farm property in Northfield Township. Mostly composed of cropland, with a small wooded area, this property offers stunning views as it is bordered by Northfield Church, Earhart, and Pontiac Trail roads.
To fund these conservation efforts, Ann Arbor is relying on the USDA’s Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), which has been a primary source of grant funding for the city’s greenbelt program. According to Pahl Donaldson, ACEP and its predecessor have contributed to funding 25 city-held conservation easements.
The federal funds available through ACEP can cover up to 50% of the appraised fair market cost for purchasing the conservation easements. Since its establishment in 2003, Ann Arbor’s greenbelt program has successfully protected over 7,600 acres of farmland and open space in surrounding townships. This is achieved by placing conservation easements on properties, ensuring they remain undeveloped while still being utilized for farming. Additionally, the landowners receive financial compensation for selling the development rights to the program.
The main goals of the greenbelt program are to curb urban sprawl and preserve local agriculture. By protecting farmland and open space, Ann Arbor is promoting sustainable land use and prioritizing the preservation of its natural resources. Through the acquisition of these conservation easements, the city hopes to foster a thriving agricultural community and maintain a balance between development and environmental conservation.
The efforts of Ann Arbor in seeking federal funds to protect over 300 acres of farmland in surrounding townships demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
