Farmland Conservation (Agricultural Conservation Easements)

The Vermont Housing & Conservation Board (VHCB) funds the purchase of development rights / agricultural conservation easements to conserve Vermont farmland. Applications are evaluated in a two-step process: pre-applications are submitted by an eligible entity (typically a land trust), and if the project meets VHCB's eligibility criteria, it is approved for VHCB cost-share of an appraisal to determine the value of the conservation easement.

Applications are submitted by eligible entities — typically land trusts — on behalf of farmland conservation projects; farmers do not apply directly.

There is a funding cap of $550,000 per application and $4,200 per acre. VHCB may also purchase an Option to Purchase at Agricultural Value (OPAV) on previously conserved farms, through a designated State agency or nonprofit partner, to ensure affordability for future generations of farmers.

Eligible entities (typically land trusts) submit a pre-application through the VHCB Conservation Applications & Funding Programs page.