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Residents of Washington County will see continued protection of local farmland, as a 71.85-acre property in Williamsport has been permanently preserved, ensuring it remains dedicated to agriculture and safe from future development. The effort marks a significant addition to the county’s growing inventory of conserved farmland and supports the broader goal of safeguarding Washington County’s rural character and agricultural economy.

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The Downsville Pike property, home to a high-intensity cattle and crop operation, was officially preserved on June 2 through the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program. Funding for the easement was provided by Washington County and the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation. This preservation adds to a concentrated area of protected farms, strengthening long-term agricultural use in the surrounding area and encouraging other landowners to participate in similar conservation initiatives.

Washington County currently has nearly 17,000 acres protected under the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program—about 39% of all conserved land in the county. This latest preservation marks the seventh agricultural easement secured for fiscal year 2024. Landowners interested in participating must apply by July 1 each year, with easement offers typically extended the following spring.

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In addition to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program, the county leverages several other local, state, and federal programs to protect farmland, forests, and open space. These include the Rural Legacy Program, the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, Project Open Space, the Installment Purchase Program, and federal partnerships like the Farm and Ranchland Protection Program. Together, these efforts reinforce Washington County’s commitment to preserving its farming heritage and rural landscapes for future generations.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from Washington County Department of Planning & Zoning press release


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