The resources below focus on the role of farmland protection, land conservation and stewardship goals in a farm transfer. You’ll find information about conservation tools, creative land use options and how farmland contributes to the community’s well being as well as its bottom line.

Community Development and Farm Transfer

A concise discussion about farm transfer, why it is important for community development and what community development practitioners can do to help.

Kathy Ruhf/Bob Bernstein, Land For Good
May 2007, 6 pages

Community Development and Farm Transfer Discussion (pdf)

Cost of Community Services Studies: Making the Case for Conservation

The overall contribution of agricultural and other open lands considered alongside residential, commercial, and industrial development

Julia Freedgood, et al.
American Farmland Trust
2002, 78 pages

Order by calling AFT at (413) 586-4593, ext. 17
$16.95 plus s/h

Cost of Community Services Studies: Making the Case for Conservation

 

Holding Ground: A Guide to Northeast Farmland Tenure and Stewardship

A comprehensive guide that includes an examination of “non-ownership” tenure such as rental agreements, long-term leasing, and other arrangements; includes sample agreements, worksheets, and other resources.

Annette Higby, Kathryn Z. Ruhf, and Andrea Woloschuk
The New England Small Farm Institute
2004, 162 pages
Order online ($22 includes s/h)

Farmland Transfer & Protection in New England

A guide for entering and exiting farmers; includes worksheets; not limited to New England farm operators.

Kathryn Z. Ruhf
The New England Small Farm Institute
1999, 124 pages

Order online ($12 includes s/h)