SOUTHERN MARYLAND — The Maryland Board of Public Works has approved new farmland preservation easements safeguarding more than 300 acres of prime agricultural land across Charles and St. Mary’s counties, part of a statewide effort to preserve Maryland’s farming heritage and strengthen local food production.
Approved on Nov. 6, 2025, the new easements are part of 14 statewide acquisitions through the Maryland Agricultural Preservation Land Foundation (MALPF), protecting 1,474 acres in total. The initiative reflects Maryland’s continued investment in sustainable agriculture and open-space conservation.
“Protecting our farmland is crucial for maintaining Maryland’s agricultural heritage,” said Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks. “These new easements showcase our commitment to supporting local farmers, improving food security, and safeguarding our natural resources for both present and future generations. By making this investment today, we are setting the foundation for a sustainable tomorrow.”
Southern Maryland Preservation Details
In Charles County, one easement preserves 52.8 acres of farmland valued at $210,000, while St. Mary’s County will see 247.3 acres protected under a $1.39 million agreement. Both easements ensure that the properties remain dedicated to agricultural use indefinitely, supporting small farms, maintaining open space, and contributing to the region’s rural economy.
The Maryland Agricultural Preservation Land Foundation, created in 1977 under the Maryland Department of Agriculture, works with willing landowners to purchase agricultural preservation easements. These voluntary agreements permanently restrict development rights, ensuring farms remain in production for future generations.
The program plays a vital role in sustaining Maryland’s agricultural landscape — supporting local food production, preserving natural habitats, and maintaining the character of rural communities across Southern Maryland.
Continued Preservation Momentum In Charles County
In August 2025 the Maryland Board of Public Works had approved a separate round of MALPF easements preserving more than 2,300 acres statewide, including significant farmland in Charles County. That earlier approval showed the county’s growing commitment to long-term agricultural preservation through both state and county partnerships.
This latest approval builds on that progress, reinforcing Charles County’s leadership in farmland conservation and aligning with Maryland’s broader environmental goals under the Maryland the Beautiful Act, passed during the 2023 legislative session. The act established a statewide target to conserve 40% of Maryland’s land by 2040, following the successful 30-by-30 benchmark reached earlier this decade.
Together, these ongoing investments represent Maryland’s enduring commitment to its farming legacy — ensuring agricultural land remains viable, productive, and central to the state’s identity for generations to come.
For more information about the MALPF program or to inquire about participation, contact Charles County’s Department of Planning and Growth Management at 301-645-0692 or visit mda.maryland.gov/malpf.
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