Land preservation supports a robust farm economy which contributes to the quality of life in the township from farm-fresh foods to a favorable tax flow. Land preservation saves the unending, ever-expanding cost of schools and other services which the development of protected farms would have required. If you are interested in learning more about preserving your property, the township will be happy to give you additional information without obligating you to take any action. While the township's primary goal is the preservation of farmland, the program for preservation is not limited to agriculture. Site assessment factors provide for the selection of a property based on its historic or scenic value, natural resources, or location relative to properties already protected, or to areas such as villages which we wish to protect.
Every property is different, and every landowner has different needs.
The township works, within the parameters of the funds available, to find a suitable match between preservation approaches and individual needs. Whether or not a conservation easement is placed on a property remains under the control of the landowner who may withdraw from the process or continue it until a final agreement is reached. To be eligible for consideration, farms must be at least 50 acres in size, actively farmed and enrolled in an Agricultural Security Area. Farms are prioritized for inclusion in the program based on many factors. Among the most important factors are the productivity of a farm and the prospects for its continued successful operation.