A Berks County farm is among 31 across Pennsylvania that will be permanently preserved through a new state investment aimed at protecting agricultural land from development.
The Shapiro Administration announced more than $10.2 million in funding to purchase development rights for farms totaling 2,645 acres in 20 counties. The funding was approved by the Pennsylvania Agricultural Land Preservation Board.
In Berks County, the investment totals $150,650 and will preserve a 46-acre crop and livestock farm owned by Barry C. and Donna E. Kline in Windsor Township. The funding includes $26,960 from the state and $123,690 from the county.
By purchasing development rights, the program ensures the preserved land remains in agricultural use and cannot be sold for residential or commercial development in the future.
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said the program reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to supporting farmers and protecting farmland.
“Pennsylvania leads the nation in preserved farmland, thanks to the unwavering commitment of our farm families and strong support at every level of government,” Redding said. “Many of these farmers have been offered the opportunity to sell their land for development, but they’ve chosen instead to stay committed to feeding our Commonwealth and carrying on their families’ farming traditions.”
The investment is part of Pennsylvania’s Farmland Preservation Program, which partners with local governments and nonprofits to protect farmland for long-term agricultural use.
Since the program began in 1988, Pennsylvania has preserved more than 6,700 farms and over 665,000 acres statewide, according to officials.
