Agricultural conservation easements are purchased or donated voluntarily by the landowners to permanently protect farms for agriculture. Land protected by an easement cannot be used for any other purpose other than agricultural production or commercial equine activity. Protecting groups or clusters of farms helps maintain agriculture as a viable industry.

An agricultural conservation easement (ACE) is "an interest in land, less than fee simple, which represents the right to prevent the development or improvement of a parcel for a purpose other than agricultural production. It is granted in perpetuity, as the equivalent of covenants running with the land."

Overview of the ACE Program

Benefits of Agricultural Land Preservation

What is a Conservation Easement?

Summary of Procedures

Minimum Criteria

ACE Program Application

Sample Deed of Easement

Donation of an Easement

Frequently Asked Questions