What land is eligible for conservation easement sale?

Only farmland duly enrolled within Agricultural Security Areas (ASA's), containing at least 500 acres, and meeting the minimum eligibility criteria as established by the York County Conservation Easement Program Guidelines, are eligible for preservation. See the Eligibility Criteria. Enrollment is voluntary and requires permission by all the owners of record of the farmland tract, as well as, your lender.

Priorities for purchasing agricultural conservation easements are determined by the County and State Boards, but programs must consider the following: quality of farmland, the likelihood of conversion within the next 20 years, proximity to preserved farmland tracts, stewardship of the land, and fair, equitable, objective and non-discriminatory procedures. See the Farmland Ranking System.

Show All Answers

1. What is an agricultural conservation easement?
2. How would purchasing agricultural conservation easements preserve agriculture?
3. Who determines the value of agricultural easements?
4. How long are the agricultural conservation easements for?
5. Can a farmer buy back the conservation easement?
6. What are the farmer's right's after selling the conservation easement?
7. What land is eligible for conservation easement sale?
8. Do I have to maintain a soil/water conservation plan on the farm?
9. How is farmland preservation in pennsylvania funded?
10. Who will ensure that the deed restrictions are maintained?
11. Must I apply every year?
12. Do I pay taxes on easement funds?