Farmland Preservation Program
Michigan
Land Use |
Cropland, grazing land, recreational land, forestland |
Focus |
Easement program |
Resource Concern |
Soil erosion, air quality, water quality, wildlife habitat |
Purpose |
The environmental purpose is to ensure land is preserved as farmland and not developed beyond agricultural purposes. |
Landowner Benefits |
The landowner receives tax benefits as well as exemptions on special assessments when enrolling in the Farmland Preservation Program. Special assessments include sanitary sewer, water, lights, or non-farm drain projects. |
Description |
The Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program is designed to preserve farmland and open space through agreements that restrict development and provide tax incentives for program participation. This program ensures that the land remains in agricultural lause for a minimum of 10 years, and is not developed for any non-agricultural use. |
Practices |
Preservation of agricultural land |
Costs to Landowner |
The land gives up the right to develop the land for a non-agricultural land use but maintains ownership and the right sell the land. |
Eligibility |
Farmland eligibility is determined by the size of the farm, and in some instances by the farm’s income. |
Contract |
The developmental easement on the land must be for a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of 90 years. Extensions of the contract can be for 7 years or more after the initial term has been served. |
Other Notes |
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Landowner Initiation |
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