HAGERSTOWN, MD (December 9, 2024) – The Washington County Department of Planning & Zoning is proud to announce that on November 27, 2024, Washington County announced the preservation of a 118.78-acre farm, contributing to the more than 41,000 acres of permanently preserved land within the County.
The preservation was achieved through a Rural Legacy Program (RLP) easement on a farm located on Natural Well Road in Williamsport. This scenic property boasts rich agricultural, historic, and natural features. Its inclusion in the preservation initiative enhances a significant block of thousands of acres of permanently protected land in the area, encouraging neighboring properties to pursue similar easements.
The Rural Legacy Program, a cornerstone of Washington County’s land preservation strategy, has been instrumental in safeguarding nearly 9,300 acres, representing 22% of the County’s permanent easements. Administered locally by the Washington County Department of Planning & Zoning’s Land Preservation Office and funded by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the program focuses on protecting lands of agricultural, historical, and environmental importance.
Farm owners interested in participating can apply annually by January 31, with offers typically extended each year in the fall. This easement is part of the fiscal year 2024 cycle.
Washington County’s comprehensive land preservation efforts extend beyond RLP. The County leverages programs such as the Maryland DNR Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), Project Open Space Stateside, the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Program (MALPF), the County’s Installment Purchase Program (IPP), and more. Partnerships with organizations like MARBIDCO, the Maryland Environmental Trust (MET), and the Antietam Battlefield Trust (ABT) further bolster these efforts. While much of the funding is sourced from the State, Washington County has recently increased its financial contributions to ensure the sustainability of its preservation programs.
For more information about land preservation programs in Washington County, contact Chris Boggs, Rural Preservation Administrator, at 240-313-2447 or via email at [email protected].
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