Small Acreage Next Generation Program (SANG) (SANG)

The Small Acreage Next Generation Program (SANG) is a farmland conservation easement purchase program for smaller properties between 10 and 49 acres. It helps qualified young or beginning farmers purchase smaller farmland while preserving working farmland, filling the gap for properties smaller than those typically served by the Next Gen Program. MARBIDCO provides 30% to 60% of land-only fair market value in exchange for a permanent agricultural conservation easement; the funds serve as the down payment.

Eligible properties are between 10 and 49 acres. There is no age restriction, but beginning farmers are more likely to be selected. A beginning farmer owns no farm or less than 9 acres, has not operated as principal for more than 10 years, has at least one year of farming experience, and expects to participate substantially in the operation. A commercial lender must participate.

MARBIDCO provides 30% to 60% of the land-only fair market value in exchange for a permanent agricultural conservation easement; these funds serve as the down payment. A commercial lender must participate. Typical approved purchases take 6 to 8 months.

Applications are due by 4:00 p.m. on the last business day of each month at MARBIDCO's Annapolis office. Applicants should contact the county agricultural preservation office at least one month before submission; required seller paperwork must reach the county office at least one month in advance. For information or submission, contact Allison Roe at (410) 267-6807 or aroe@marbidco.org.