January 10, 2011

Feb. 2 session will highlightAEPP

farmland preservation program 

Farmers can learn more about the benefits of the state’s Agricultural Easement Purchase Program when the Land Conservancy, Medina Soil and Water Conservation District and the Ohio Department of Agriculture hold an informational session from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 2 at the Medina County University Center, 6300 Technology Lane, Lafayette Township.

 

Following an overview of the AEPP program by the Office of Farmland Preservation, Andy McDowell, who is the Land Conservancy’s western field director and has been involved in the protection of more than 4,000 acres of farmland, will speak about AEPP and his organization’s farmland preservation work.

 

McDowell will also discuss the federal and estate tax benefits for those who preserve their land.  The federal tax incentives were recently renewed through the end of 2011.

 

The session is free and open to the public.

 

The AEPP provides funding to assist landowners and communities in preserving Ohio's farmland. In addition to preserving scenic views, the environment and wildlife habitat, the easement program helps family farms transition to the next generation and protects the economic foundation of Ohio's largest industry.

 

The Medina County University Center is located just south of the city of Medina and is bounded by Lake Road on the east and Wedgewood Road (Rt. 162) on the south.  The center opened in January 2008.

The state’s largest land conservancy is applauding the renewal of a federal tax incentive for private landowners – especially working family farmers – who protect their land with a voluntary conservation easement.

 

Western Reserve Land Conservancy, which serves a 14-county region in northern Ohio, endorsed the move by Congress to renew the incentive, which had expired at the end of 2009.  The tax incentive has helped the Land Conservancy work with willing landowners in our community to preserve more than 22,000 acres of productive agricultural lands and natural areas.