HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro Administration announced on Thursday a significant step in protecting Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage by purchasing development rights for 2,629 acres on 28 farms across 19 counties. This initiative, representing a $9.8 million investment, aims to shield these farms from future residential or commercial development.
Two notable farms in Chester County will benefit from this program: the Laura E. Lester Farm, a 39-acre crop farm in New London Township, and the Stoney Bend Farm, a 105-acre crop farm in Lower Oxford Township. The total investment for these farms is $797,223, with $564,963 coming from the state and $232,260 from the county.
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding emphasized the importance of this move. “Pennsylvania’s location — near ports, interstates, railways, and 40 percent of the U.S. population — makes our state a great place to do business,” Redding said. “If your business is farming, that location brings fierce competition from developers willing to pay top dollar for your land. Keeping prime farmland from becoming warehouses, housing developments, or parking lots is a critical investment.”
This preservation effort holds significant implications for the state’s agricultural future. By securing these development rights, Pennsylvania ensures that farms remain dedicated to agriculture, supporting food security and maintaining the agricultural landscape. This is crucial in a state where urban sprawl and commercial development continually threaten farmland.
Since its inception in 1988, the Farmland Preservation Program has protected 6,392 farms covering 639,254 acres across 58 counties. The program has invested over $1.7 billion in state, county, and local funds. Pennsylvania leads the nation in preserved farmland, reflecting the state’s commitment to its agricultural roots.
The program works by partnering with county governments, local authorities, and nonprofits to buy development rights from farm owners. This partnership guarantees that the farms will remain productive and not be sold to developers. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to support conservation initiatives, such as the $154 million Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program, which helps farmers reduce water pollution and improve soil quality.
In addition to preserving farmland, the program supports the local economy by ensuring that farming remains a viable profession. It helps maintain family-owned farms, which are often passed down through generations. By keeping these lands dedicated to agriculture, Pennsylvania is also investing in its own food security and economic stability.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration sees this as a vital step in balancing growth and conservation. With increasing pressure from urban expansion, preserving farmland is essential to sustaining the agricultural industry that feeds families and supports communities.
This latest investment highlights Pennsylvania’s ongoing dedication to protecting its agricultural resources. By securing these lands for future generations, the state is making a strategic investment in its economy, environment, and cultural heritage.
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