Agricultural Advisory Board Meeting | July 21, 2026

Agricultural Advisory Board Meeting Recap: July 21, 2026

The Agricultural Advisory Board convened on July 21, 2026, to discuss farmland preservation initiatives, easement program updates, and upcoming grant applications. This meeting provided significant news for landowners and residents interested in preserving agricultural land within the community. The board, comprised of appointed members, focused on a range of topics impacting farmland preservation and agricultural growth zones.

A major highlight of the meeting was positive news regarding state budget allocations. The board approved both the previous agenda and minutes from June 16, 2026. The state has significantly increased funding for farmland preservation by several million dollars (a non-recurring boost) to cover existing projects, and secured an additional $2 million in recurring annual funding, bringing the total to $7 million. Furthermore, the state extended the conservation tax credit through 2030, providing a valuable incentive for landowners to participate in preservation programs. The board also reviewed renewal applications for five “Battery Bad” easement properties, encompassing approximately 200 acres. Staff is actively working to ensure landowners with expiring agreements or recent property transfers remain enrolled in the program, demonstrating a commitment to continuity within these vital conservation efforts.

Significant progress was announced regarding the Community Farm Expansion Easement with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, which recently closed on July 14th after resolving a neighbor dispute. Updates were also provided on several Agricultural Growth Zone (AGZ) properties, currently in the survey phase with completed environmental assessments. The board anticipates requesting bond match funding for these projects in early fall, signaling a proactive approach to expanding agricultural land preservation. Discussions touched on ongoing work related to several properties including Okoboji, Cedar Hill, Slocum, Morgan, AB&C and Brown. A presentation on new projects is planned for the August board meeting, followed by a farm visit, allowing members to assess potential projects firsthand.

The board engaged in discussions regarding the approval process for new projects, preparing for fall funding requests. They are planning to apply for a $2 million grant renewal for the Agricultural Growth Zone program, aligning with existing bond funds. An update to the Farmland Protection Plan, including a Cost of Community Services Study, is also in the works. Five new projects were presented for consideration, including properties belonging to the Reimer Davis family and the Ruby Brown Farm. A significant policy change was announced: a new state mandate requires any farm building on an easement property to be located within a designated “farmstead building envelope.” This change, stemming from updates to the state’s deed template for projects funded with state dollars, will likely lead to more designated farmstead areas on future easement properties, potentially impacting the visual landscape of preserved lands.

Looking ahead, Board members Terry and Martha will attend the State Farmland Preservation Program’s Voluntary Ag District Farmland Preservation Conference in Cherokee (July 25-26) for networking and training. The board will conduct farm visits in August, followed by a vote on the new projects at their subsequent meeting. Final requests for funding (including AGZ and LCAP grants) are anticipated in September or October. Residents can stay informed by checking the county's website for updates and meeting minutes, or contacting the Agricultural Advisory Board directly with any questions. The board’s ongoing efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to preserving agricultural land and supporting local farmers, ultimately contributing to the community’s economic vitality and scenic character.