By Blake Jackson
The Shapiro Administration has announced a new investment of more than $10.2 million to protect Pennsylvania farmland, securing development rights for 2,645 acres across 31 farms in 20 counties.
This initiative ensures that these properties remain dedicated to agriculture and are shielded from future residential or commercial development, reinforcing the state’s ongoing commitment to its agricultural sector.
“Pennsylvania leads the nation in preserved farmland, thanks to the unwavering commitment of our farm families and strong support at every level of government,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said.
“Many of these farmers have been offered the opportunity to sell their land for development, but they’ve chosen instead to stay committed to feeding our Commonwealth and carrying on their families’ farming traditions. The Shapiro Administration is honoring that commitment by protecting farmland and investing in the innovation and infrastructure needed to sustain Pennsylvania agriculture for generations to come.”
Among those participating are Robert Pardoe Jr. and John Marsteller Jr., who have chosen preservation over development pressures in Northumberland and York counties.
The Marsteller family farm now includes seven parcels forming a 2,700-acre block of protected land. This marks their fourth conservation easement, following a record-setting 1,063-acre agreement in 1993.
“It’s been important for me and my family to not only farm the land, but to make sure that there are farms, and productive ones, for the future,” Marsteller said.
“My mom always said that I was born on a tractor. I’ve been driving trucks and tractors since I was five years old. I was born and raised on the same farm that I live on today.”
This latest funding builds on previous efforts, including a $7.1 million investment earlier this year that preserved 25 farms and 1,905 acres.
In 2025 alone, Pennsylvania protected 167 farms covering 14,147 acres, with more than $50.1 million invested.
Through the Farmland Preservation Program, launched in 1988, the state has safeguarded 6,704 farms and 665,585 acres across 58 counties, investing over $1.84 billion to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability and food security.
Click here to look at how the $10,235,075 investment is distributed across Pennsylvania counties, according to the latest Land Preservation Board meeting.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy