By Andi Anderson
Efforts to protect farmland in Geauga County continue as local leaders and conservation partners work to ensure agricultural land remains available for future generations.
A recent farmland preservation agreement highlights how voluntary easement programs can help address ongoing land use change and farmland loss.
A 129-acre farm in Thompson Township has been permanently protected through the Ohio Department of Agriculture Local Agricultural Easement Purchase Program.
The program allows landowners to voluntarily sell agricultural easements that ensure land remains in agricultural production forever. This approach helps protect working farms while keeping land in private ownership.
The project was supported by the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District, which assists with program administration and landowner support.
Since 2018, the Geauga County Board of County Commissioners, working with the Soil and Water Conservation District, has served as a certified local sponsor for the program in Geauga County.
Farmland preservation has become increasingly important as development pressure grows. Between 1964 and 2022, Geauga County lost nearly 30 percent of its farmland, totaling about 29,000 acres.
Programs like the Local Agricultural Easement Purchase Program help slow this trend by encouraging landowners to commit to long term agricultural use.
The Clean Ohio Local Agricultural Easement Purchase Program provides funding to support these efforts. For the ninth consecutive year, Geauga County has been approved as a certified local sponsor, allowing it to accept applications from interested landowners.
As a 2026 certified sponsor, the county has been allocated $109,628 to support farmland preservation projects.
The Carmella Shale, director and engineer with the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District, plays a key role in guiding landowners through the application process.
The district works closely with applicants to review eligibility, explain program requirements, and assist with required documentation.
The 2026 application round is currently open and will close on February 28. Landowners interested in preserving their farmland are encouraged to contact the Soil and Water Conservation District to schedule a meeting and discuss participation.
By protecting farmland through voluntary easements, Geauga County is helping ensure that agriculture remains a vital part of the community. These efforts support local food production, protect open space, and preserve farming traditions for generations to come.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nes
Categories: Ohio, General