Governor Lee signs Farmland Preservation Act
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed the Farmland Preservation Act on Saturday meant to preserve farmland and forestland.
The bill would allow farmers to enroll their land in a conservation easement that prevents the owner from selling or transferring it. In return, the farmers can get grants from a $25 million fund. This is meant to preserve farms for future generations.
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'Agriculture is the top driver of Tennessee's economy, and our farmers play an important role in our state's success,' said Lee. 'As Tennessee experiences unprecedented economic growth and job creation, the Farmland Preservation Act ensures that family farms can [be] preserved well into the future. I thank the General Assembly for their partnership in supporting rural communities so that all Tennesseans can thrive.'
Tennessee's farmland and forests are being lost at a rate of 240 acres per day, according to Tennessee Representative Greg Vital (R – Harrison). Tennessee has lost over one million acres of farmland to development over the last 20 years.
'We are proud to partner with Governor Lee and the legislature to create this program,' said Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher. 'Tennessee is losing productive farm and forest land at an alarming rate. Once that land is converted to other uses, it doesn't change back. This voluntary program provides options to preserve that land for generations to come, ensuring that agriculture and forestry remain important aspects of Tennessee's economy, landscape, and identity.'
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The bill passed with bipartisan support.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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