Agricultural Advisory Board Meeting | June 16, 2026

Agricultural Advisory Board Meeting Recap: Protecting Buncombe County’s Farmland – June 16, 2026

The Agricultural Advisory Board convened on June 16, 2026, to discuss ongoing projects, review easement applications, and address a key policy regarding appraisals. This meeting provided important updates on the County’s efforts to preserve farmland and support local agriculture, impacting landowners and residents alike. The meeting was well-attended by board members and County staff, demonstrating a strong commitment to the Board’s mission.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing and approving easement applications from Kathy Davis for approximately 130 acres of land near Midfound. The property, a former dairy farm with diverse landscapes including cornfields, forested areas, and pasture, holds historical significance for the area. Following discussion about its value to the community, the board unanimously approved all three easement applications, a positive step for preserving this valuable piece of farmland. Beyond the Davis Farm application, updates were provided on several ongoing projects including work with Davis Farm and Burgen Valley Ground Farm, as well as baseline documentation reports for previously approved projects. The closing of the Southern Appalachian Community Farm expansion is slated for early July, and surveys are underway or planned for Daddor Farm and the Jenkins Branch tract.

A major focus of the meeting centered on a discussion regarding the County’s policy concerning appraisals for conservation easements. The Land Trust Alliance and the County Attorney have recommended against paying for these IRS appraisals, citing potential conflicts of interest and rising costs. Board members engaged in a robust debate weighing the value of these appraisals for landowners seeking tax benefits against the financial implications. After careful consideration, the board voted to continue paying for IRS appraisals, maintaining the current policy. Board members emphasized that this decision supports landowners and aligns with their commitment to farmland preservation, despite the associated costs.

Looking ahead, the Agricultural Advisory Board is actively pursuing funding opportunities to bolster their efforts. Staff will be preparing and submitting grant applications in August, including an expression of interest for a $2 million Agricultural Growth Zone (AGZ) grant and funding to update the Farmland Protection Plan. A cost of community services study will also be included as part of this updated plan. Addressing a minor setback, legal counsel is currently working to resolve title issues impacting the Wilson Farm project.

This meeting underscored the County’s ongoing dedication to protecting farmland and supporting local agriculture. The decisions made, particularly regarding easement approvals and the appraisal policy, will directly impact landowners seeking conservation easements. The Board’s proactive approach to grant applications and the upcoming update to the Farmland Protection Plan signal a continued commitment to securing resources and strategically preserving valuable farmland for future generations. Residents can expect further updates as these projects progress, demonstrating the County’s ongoing investment in a vibrant and sustainable agricultural landscape.