Pennsylvania preserves 70 acres of Berks County farmland for future generations

February 13, 2025 - 08:20 PM - Berks Weekly

A 70-acre crop farm in Berks County has been permanently protected from future development as part of Pennsylvania’s latest farmland preservation efforts. The state has allocated nearly $6.7 million to preserve 1,837 acres across 19 farms in 16 counties, ensuring that these lands remain dedicated to agriculture.

The Berks County farm, owned by Howard J. and Jill Stark in Perry Township, received a total investment of $198,671 for the purchase of its development rights. Of this amount, $189,559 came from state funding, while Berks County contributed $9,072.

This initiative is part of Pennsylvania’s longstanding commitment to farmland preservation, which has made the state a national leader in protecting agricultural land from residential and commercial development. Since the program’s inception in 1988, Pennsylvania has preserved more than 6,500 farms and 648,692 acres, with over $1.7 billion in state, county, and local investments.

“Food security is national security,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “Farmers face fierce competition from developers seeking to buy their land, and saving that land to produce food is one of the most important things we can do to ensure that we can keep feeding Pennsylvania and the world.”

Berks County, known for its rich agricultural heritage, has been a frequent beneficiary of the state’s preservation efforts. Farms like the Starks’ contribute to the local economy while maintaining open green spaces and supporting food production for the region.

Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2025-26 budget aims to further support the state’s agricultural sector by increasing investments in farming innovation, food security programs, and conservation initiatives. The proposal includes an additional $13 million for the Ag Innovation Fund and $4 million to help connect Pennsylvanians in need with fresh, local food.

Pennsylvania’s Farmland Preservation Program works by partnering with counties and local governments to purchase development rights from farm owners, ensuring that farmland remains in agricultural use. The effort helps sustain local farming communities, protect natural resources, and maintain Pennsylvania’s position as an agricultural leader.

For more information on farmland preservation efforts in Pennsylvania, visit agriculture.pa.gov.