Ohio Department of Agriculture announces new farmland preservation commitments
More Ohio farmland will remain Ohio farmland. The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) announced this week that 240 acres on two farms have been permanently preserved for agricultural use through the state’s farmland preservation program during the second quarter of 2026.
Agricultural land is a key part of Ohio’s landscape and economy. Through the Farmland Preservation Program, landowners voluntarily place an agricultural easement on their property, ensuring it remains in agricultural use permanently. In return, landowners may receive compensation or qualify for certain tax benefits.
“Each year we’re excited to see more farmland in Ohio placed in the Farmland Preservation Program,” said Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge. “Agriculture remains one of Ohio’s top industries and preserving land for future generations of farmers helps strengthen the state’s agricultural heritage.”
From April 1 through June 30, 2026, the farms below were added to the Farmland Preservation Program:
• Mast Farm in Madison County
Owner(s): Brian and Darcey Mast
Rounded acreage: 175 acres
Local Sponsor: Madison County Commissioners;
• Greider Farm in Logan County
Owner(s): Loa Lea Greider
Rounded acreage: 65 acres
Local Sponsor: Logan County Land Trust.
In partnership with ODA, local sponsors play a significant role in securing the agreements – A local sponsor is an entity such as the city, county, township, soil and water conservation district, or non-profit organization such as land trusts that demonstrates the capability to acquire, hold, manage, and enforce agricultural easements. ODA works in collaboration with certified local sponsors to acquire and monitor agricultural easements.
Since the Office of Farmland Preservation was established in 1998, 782 farms totaling more than 112,904 acres in Ohio have entered into preservation agreements. Protecting farmland helps ensure Ohio remains a leading producer of food, fuel, and fiber while preserving the state’s agricultural heritage for future generations.
Funds received through the purchase of farmland easements are often reinvested into farm operations and local communities. Landowners frequently use the proceeds to expand their operations, purchase equipment, reduce debt, add conservation practices, plan for retirement, or support the next generation of farmers.