South Central PA News

HARRISBURG – Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) has revealed plans for a significant investment of over $1.3 million to preserve 520 acres of farmland in Adams and Franklin counties. The initiative aims to safeguard the agricultural heritage of Pennsylvania and ensure food security for its residents.

The funding will be allocated towards purchasing development rights for the farms, protecting them from potential future residential or commercial development. The State Agricultural Land Preservation Board has approved conservation easement purchases for the farms, in collaboration with state, county, and municipal governments.

Mastriano emphasized the importance of farmland preservation, stating, “Farmland preservation promotes the continuation of Pennsylvania’s strong farming heritage while also providing food security for commonwealth residents.” He further emphasized the essential role of farming in society, noting that "Farms and the food they produce are the foundation of our commonwealth."

The investment breakdown includes $319,687 to preserve the 93-acre Maring Family Limited Partnership Farm, with contributions from the state, Adams County, and Cumberland Township. Additionally, $903,223 will be invested, with support from Franklin County, to preserve four farms totaling 427 acres in Builford Township, Southampton Township, Guilford Township, and Peters Township.

This announcement aligns with Mastriano's efforts to enhance and expand Pennsylvania's Agriculture Conservation Easement Purchase Program. His proposed Senate Bill 288 aims to increase annual funding for the program by allocating a portion of Pennsylvania's realty transfer tax revenue, potentially injecting over $80 million annually for farmland preservation.

Furthermore, Senate Bill 288 seeks to broaden program eligibility to include smaller farms, reduce the minimum subdivision size for preserved farmland, and facilitate the purchase of smaller parcels adjacent to preserved land or used for unique crop production.

In closing, Mastriano reiterated his commitment to preserving farmland in Pennsylvania, stating, “The money we invest in farmland preservation today will ensure there is food for our children and grandchildren tomorrow.” Senate Bill 288 is currently awaiting consideration in the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.

Constituents of the 33rd District can access more information about Mastriano on his website at SenatorMastriano.com or follow him on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenatorDougMastriano.

For media inquiries, contact Josh Herman at 717-787-9603.