WASHINGTON COUNTY
FARMLAND PRESERVATION PROGRAM
Applications for Farmland Preservation
New applications are due by September 30 for consideration the following year.
Landowner Application Packet
Program Overview
Established in 1994, the Washington County Agricultural Land Preservation Program, also known as the farmland preservation program, purchases agricultural easements on productive farms in Washington County. Landowners retain private ownership of the property and may still use, lease, or sell the property. Any new owner shall abide by the terms of the easement which limits subdivision, non-agricultural development, and other uses inconsistent with commercial agriculture.
Board Members
The Washington County Agricultural Land Preservation Board is comprised of seven volunteer members who serve three-year terms. Appointments to the Board are made by the Washington County Commissioners. Representation includes three active farmers, one elected municipal official, one builder, and two members-at-large, in accordance with state law.
Board Meetings
- Third Tuesday of each month, unless noted.
- August 8, 2023 at 10:30 a.m.
- Washington County Conservation District, 50 Old Hickory Ridge Road, Washington, PA 15301
Funding
Funding for the program comes from both the County and State. Under the program, counties may allocate funding for the easement purchase program. By law, all the interest collected on clean and green rollback tax penalties must be designated for use by the county program. These funds receive a match from the State. Funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is generated from cigarette taxes, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, and other sources.
As of October 2023, the Agricultural Land Preservation Board has preserved 7,200 acres of farmland on 47 farms in Washington County. In Pennsylvania, there are 6,284 preserved farms in 58 participating counties: 630,302 acres in total.
