State Money Released for Agricultural Conservation Easements

Governor Timothy M. Kaine announced the distribution of $4,250,002 to 14 Virginia localities to preserve farmland through local purchase of development rights (PDR) programs. Calling it a historic step, the governor said the funds will benefit Virginia’s farmers, local economies, and the environment.

Former AFT staff member and current program coordinator of Virginia’s Office of Farmland Preservation, Kevin Schmidt, will make the disbursements once the newly drafted state agreements have been signed. “Virginia localities have done a tremendous job up to now using their own funding and some federal assistance. It is very gratifying to work with them to bring state matching dollars into the mix," said Schmidt. He hopes that the state match may encourage new localities to establish PDR programs, joining the 21 that already operate.

County Recipients

• Albemarle, Clark, Fauquier, Goochland, Isle of Wight, and James City plus the cities of Chesapeake and Virginia Beach are each receiving $403,220
• Stafford County received $299,242
• Frederick County, $265,000
• Rappahannock County, $165,000
• New Kent County, $150,000
• Cumberland County, $100,000
• Northampton County, $45,000