Farmland Preservation: A key objective is the preservation of farmland in North Carolina

Farmland Preservation: A key objective is the preservation of farmland in North Carolina

Legacy Farms and Ranches of North Carolina would like to bring to your attention a program that is very beneficial to farmers and landowners. Our state is being threatened every day with development that is driving out the local farmer. Due to a recent study it is projected by the year 2040, North Carolina will lose the second-most acres of farmland in the United States. Our Agriculture commissioner Steve Troxler tried to combat this growing issue with House Bill 607 in March of 2005.

The North Carolina Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund is a state-funded program in North Carolina, United States, that was established to support the state's agricultural industry and protect farmland from development and urban sprawl. The trust fund is administered by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

The primary goals of the trust fund are as follows:

Support Agricultural Development: The trust fund provides financial resources to farmers and agricultural businesses to help them expand, improve, or diversify their operations. This support can take the form of grants or loans to fund various agricultural projects, such as infrastructure improvements, marketing efforts, and value-added agricultural ventures.

Farmland Preservation: Another key objective is the preservation of farmland in North Carolina. The trust fund works to protect agricultural land from being converted to non-agricultural uses, such as housing or commercial development. This is achieved through the acquisition of conservation easements or direct purchases of agricultural land, ensuring that it remains in agricultural use.

Promotion of Local Agriculture: The trust fund also plays a role in promoting local agriculture and encouraging consumers to support local food producers. It often works in conjunction with other programs and organizations to strengthen the connection between consumers and local farmers, helping to boost the state's agricultural economy.

The trust fund is funded through various sources, including state appropriations, private donations, and grants. It is a valuable resource for North Carolina farmers and contributes to the sustainability of the state's agricultural industry while preserving its rural character and agricultural heritage. The specific programs and initiatives offered by the trust fund may vary over time and depending on available funding.

If you're interested in the current programs and opportunities provided by the North Carolina Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund, we recommend visiting the official website of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services or contacting their office for the most up-to-date information.