Washington County has permanently preserved a 173.54-acre farm on Shepherdstown Pike in Sharpsburg, marking another milestone in its land conservation efforts. Finalized on May 27, 2025, the easement contributes to the County’s total of more than 42,000 acres of protected land, furthering local efforts to safeguard agricultural, historical, and natural resources.
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The newly preserved property is primarily wooded and valued for its scenic and environmental significance. Its inclusion strengthens a large, continuous block of protected lands in the area, enhancing opportunities for neighboring landowners to participate in similar preservation initiatives. The easement was secured through the Rural Legacy Program, a key tool in the County’s strategy to maintain its rural character and environmental health.
The Rural Legacy Program, funded by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and administered by the Washington County Department of Planning & Zoning’s Land Preservation Office, has helped protect over 9,400 acres, accounting for 22% of all permanently preserved land in the County. Landowners interested in participating must apply by January 31 annually, with successful applicants typically receiving offers the following fall. The recently finalized easement originated from the Fiscal Year 2024 application cycle.
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Washington County employs a variety of preservation programs alongside the Rural Legacy Program, including the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program, the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, the Installment Purchase Program, and several federal initiatives like the Farm and Ranchland Protection Program and Federal Scenic Easements. The County also collaborates with organizations such as the Maryland Environmental Trust, Antietam Battlefield Trust, and Mid-Maryland Land Trust. Although much of the funding stems from state resources, the County has increasingly invested local funds to expand and enhance these preservation efforts.
For additional information on Washington County’s land preservation programs, interested parties can contact Chris Boggs, Rural Preservation Administrator, at 240-313-2447 or cboggs@washco-md.net.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from Washington County Department of Planning & Zoning Press Release
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