Preserving Farms for Farmers: A Manual for Those Working to Keep Farms Affordable
If farms are to continue growing food, they must be kept affordable for farmers. In many real estate markets today, farms are being sold to non-farmers for prices that are out of the reach of farmers. This is a problem not only for current and aspiring farmers who are unable to purchase farms, but for local communities that have an interest in preserving access to locally produced food.
In this 136-page bound manual, we present case studies of three individual projects that permanently protected the affordability and food-growing use of a farm, including the affordability and use of the farmhouse, barns, and other infrastructure. In addition, a fourth case study describes a state-wide program. These case studies provide a real world context for the farm protection model used by Equity Trust.
In addition to the four case studies, Preserving Farms for Farmers also provides model legal documents: a model easement with option to purchase, and a model lease. There is also extensive commentary on the technical considerations this model of farm protection entails. The manual is intended to be a guide for farmers, conservation land trusts, and lawyers involved in protecting the affordability and use of farms.
To order a copy of Preserving Farms for Farmers ($25 plus shipping), please call us at the office (413.863.9038), or email us at info@equitytrust.org