By Blake Jackson
The Sullivan County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board (AFPB), working alongside Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County (CCESC) and the Orange County Land Trust (OCLT), is inviting local farmers to participate in the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets' Farmland Protection Implementation Grants (FPIG) Program.
The program gives eligible farm owners an opportunity to permanently preserve their agricultural land through conservation easements while continuing normal farming operations. By protecting farmland from future development, participants help ensure their properties remain dedicated to agriculture for future generations.
“Preserving farmland is essential to safeguarding our local food supply, supporting family farms, and maintaining the rural character of Sullivan County,” said Melinda Meddaugh, Agriculture & Food Systems Sr. Issue Leader at CCESC. “This program provides critical resources to help landowners protect their legacy.”
Farm owners interested in applying must complete and submit a Pre-Application Inquiry Form by Monday, August 17, 2026.
The Sullivan County AFPB will evaluate and rank all submissions before forwarding selected applications to the Orange County Land Trust for consideration in the state grant process.
After receiving a pre-application, an Orange County Land Trust representative will contact applicants to explain the program, review eligibility requirements, and discuss the next steps. Because funding is limited and demand has traditionally exceeded available resources, the grant program is expected to remain highly competitive.
Farmers can download the inquiry form through the Farmland Preservation Project website. Completed forms may be submitted by email to the Melinda Meddaugh at mm2592@cornell.edu or Michael Sweeton at michael@oclt.org.
The initiative aims to preserve productive farmland while strengthening the region's agricultural future and supporting family farming operations across Sullivan County.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: New York, Government & Policy