American Farmland Trust: State Programs

Agriculture is truly a staple of the Tennessean's lifestyle. Nearly half of the land in the state is used for an agricultural purpose, and Tennessee agriculture provides over 200,000 jobs. However, this important industry is facing a growing number of threats—from changes in the tobacco economy to declining commodity prices to increasing concern about property rights issues in the state. And each year, Tennessee has more than 42,000 acres of farmland converted to development. Staying in agriculture and remaining profitable can pose many difficult questions for Tennessee farmers.

tennessee's first farmland protection summit

Rolling Farm Fields Farmers, landowners, and community leaders had an opportunity to learn about protecting and growing today’s farms for tomorrow’s families and communities at the state's Farmland Legacy Conference.

“The conference will give farmers and community planners the opportunity to come together and discuss the many ways to preserve farmland for our future generations,” said state Agriculture Commissioner Ken Givens. “In addition to farm estate planning, the conference will also provide information on things farmers can do today to improve their profitability and viability such as cost share assistance through the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program.”

The Apple as Planet Earth

Do you know how much of the earth is suitable for farming? Watch this short animated presentation and learn why protecting our farmland is so important.

FederAl Farm Policy and THe farm bill: what’s in it for tennessee?

Energy and environmental policies are a priority for President Obama’s Administration. At the heart of these issues lies American farmland. Agriculture can be part of the solution if the correct policies are enacted. Read our 9 for ’09 policy recommendations and ask President Obama to engage agriculture in these critical issues.

What’s in the farm bill and why is it important?
Find out what’s next for the farm bill and how we can make sure the legislation's promises are turned into programs on the ground.
Take an in-depth look at Tennessee's agricultural profile on a state and district level, and learn how much agriculture contributes to the state's economy.