Overview of the CT Farmland Preservation Program A Governor's Task Force for the Preservation of Agricultural Land in 1974 found that farmland in the state had shrunk by half in 25 years, primarily caused by scattered development. This program involves the purchase of development rights to agricultural land as a means to guarantee long-term preservation. The goal was to preserve 130,000 acres and have the land retained in private ownership. It has been sorely underfunded and off target of the goal. 26,000 acres of the 130,000 have been preserved.
Action is needed.
Individuals and organizations are encouraged to join the Working Lands Alliance, and let their state legislators know they support the proposed legislation. Nearly of operating acres are rented. These are efficient businesses that provide employment in rural areas. Graywall Farms, Lebanon Robin came to the U.S. from England and bought a farm, first calves from the Manning farm family, then after the farm's development rights were sold to the CT Dept. of Agriculture, he bought the farm. He and his son operate it.