Pennsylvania protected 784 acres on 18 farms in nine counties from future development, investing more than $3.166 million in state, county, and local dollars to ensure that prime farmland is not lost to development, and one of them is in Chester County.

By selling their land’s development rights, landowners ensure that their farm will remain a farm and never be sold for residential, commercial, or industrial development.

Overall, the state has protected 6,094 farms and 614,668 acres in 58 counties from future commercial, industrial or residential development.

The Elam F. and Lydia Z. Beiler Farm in West Sadsbury Township is a 56.6-acre crop, horse, and beef farm that was protected from developing forever. The state invested $13,623, while Chester County invested $226,799 towards its protection.

“Preserving farmland is an investment in our economy, our environment, our quality of life, and our future food security,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “We’re proud of that investment and we owe these farm families a debt of gratitude for making a decision that guards their family legacies and benefits all of Pennsylvania.” 

Read more about the 18 farms protected from the PA Pressroom.