The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) Program is now accepting applications for the Fiscal Year 2027 Easement Cycle.
Eligibility requirements include a minimum of 50 contiguous acres, land outside of the 10-year water and sewer plan for the county, and a minimum of 50% Class I, II or III soils. For more information on eligibility and the MALPF easement acquisition process, visit https://mda.maryland.gov/malpf/Pages/Fact-Sheets.aspx
The mission of MALPF is:
- to preserve productive farmland and woodland for the continued production of food and fiber for all of Maryland’s citizens,
- to curb the expansion of random urban development,
- to help curb the spread of urban blight and deterioration,
- to help protect agricultural land and woodland as open space,
- to protect wildlife habitat, and
- to enhance the environmental quality of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
MALPF purchases agricultural preservation easements that forever restrict development on prime farmland and woodland. The State of Maryland has preserved in perpetuity more agricultural land than any other state in the country.
Beyond individual landowners, the MALPF Program delivers long-term benefits for counties and their residents by helping manage growth responsibly and reduce future infrastructure costs. By permanently preserving high-quality agricultural land and woodland, counties can better align development with existing water, sewer, road, and school capacity, while protecting rural character and working landscapes.
These preserved lands also support local economies, safeguard natural resources, and contribute to cleaner waterways which advances county planning, environmental, and fiscal goals while ensuring agriculture remains a viable part of Maryland’s future.
To view the application and apply, visit https://mda.maryland.gov/malpf/Pages/Forms.aspx.
