5 Preservation Myths, Debunked by LFT

We get a lot of questions here at Lancaster Farmland Trust (LFT), and we get it! Preservation can be hard to understand, and there are many myths about how it works. So, we’ve compiled 5 of the most common preservation myths and debunked them so you can better understand the work it takes to save the Lancaster you love.

Myth: LFT owns the farms they preserve.
Truth: Nope, the farm is still owned by the farmer! All that changes when a farm is preserved is the protection of the farmland from development, which is the responsibility of LFT. The farmer does not sell their land to preserve it; they wave their rights to develop the property.

Myth: Farmers can no longer build on their farms after the property is preserved.
Truth: We understand that you need buildings to run a successful farm! So, when a farm is preserved, a certain amount of space on the property is allowed for buildings and other structures. We work with each farmer and their needs to find solutions that benefit both the landowner and the land!

Myth: Preserved farmland can’t be sold.
Truth: If a farmer wants to sell their farm, they are welcome to! However, the new owner must keep the property in agricultural use. So, farmers can sell their farms to anyone but the farmland must remain a farmland.

Myth: LFT is against development.
Truth: No! LFT understands that development is essential in a thriving community for housing, resources, and growth. LFT is committed to smart growth, which means developing in areas that make the most sense and in a way that best utilizes the land. When a community prioritizes growth in dense areas, it allows space for farmland and open spaces to be protected while providing the needed infrastructure for growth.

Myth: There are no benefits for landowners in preservation.
Truth: While we admire a farmer’s decision to sacrifice their development rights, there are still benefits for those who preserve their farms! First, the farmer makes a friend and champion in LFT. We offer support and resources to our landowners, including access to funding for BMP implementation. Plus, unless a farmer donates the funds to preserve their property, LFT pays the landowner a one-time amount per acre protected.

The first step to supporting farmland preservation is understanding it! Together, we protect the land that sustains us and support the farmers who care for it.

To learn more about our work and check out our other FAQs, click here! Have other preservation questions? We’re happy to help! You can email us at info@lancft.org for more information and connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok for fun facts and updates!