Preserving Tennessee’s Agricultural Future: Understanding the Farmland Preservation Act
In May 2025, Tennessee took a landmark step in protecting its agricultural heritage with the passage of the Farmland Preservation Act, which went into effect in July 2025. This law represents one of the most significant agricultural policy moves in recent years, creating new opportunities for farmers to secure their land against the pressures of urban development. For farmers who care about the future of agriculture in our state, understanding this Act—and how to use it—is essential.
Why Preservation Matters
Tennessee has already lost 1.5 million acres of farmland, and projections indicate that this figure could reach 2 million acres in the near future if left unchecked. Urban expansion, rising land values, and increasing demand for non-agricultural land uses threaten the stability of farm families and local food systems.
Losing farmland is not just a personal or family issue. It is a community issue. Farmland underpins food security, local economies, and rural culture. Once farmland is converted, it is almost impossible to restore. The Farmland Preservation Act addresses this challenge head-on by creating mechanisms to ensure that Tennessee’s farmland remains farmland—permanently.
Key Features of the Farmland Preservation Act
The Farmland Preservation Act establishes a $25 million grant fund to support landowners who voluntarily place their property under conservation easements. A conservation easement is a legally binding agreement that limits non-agricultural development on the land, guaranteeing that the property will remain available for farming use for generations to come.
Key points include:
Voluntary Participation: Farmers decide whether to enroll their land.
Financial Compensation: Landowners receive grant funds in exchange for preserving their property.
Permanent Protection: Once in place, the easement prevents conversion to residential, commercial, or industrial use.
Administration: The program is managed by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.
This is not a one-size-fits-all policy. Instead, it offers a flexible, voluntary tool that can be adapted to different family, farm, and community needs.
How Farmers Can Use the Program
For farmers considering the program, the first step is to think long-term. Ask questions such as:
Do I want my land to remain in agricultural use for future generations?
Would financial compensation help my family secure the farm’s future?
How does my community benefit if my land stays in farming?
Farmers can begin by contacting the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to learn about eligibility requirements, application procedures, and timelines. Working with trusted advisors—such as local Farm Bureau representatives, agricultural attorneys, or conservation organizations—can also provide clarity on whether this program is right for your operation.
The Bigger Picture
The Farmland Preservation Act reflects a broader national movement: protecting farmland as a critical resource in the face of rapid change. For Tennessee farmers, it is more than just a financial program. It is a tool for stewardship—a way to ensure that agriculture continues to sustain our families, our communities, and our state.
By using this program, farmers are not only preserving their own livelihoods but also contributing to the long-term stability of Tennessee’s agricultural economy and food supply.
Conclusion
The Farmland Preservation Act gives Tennessee farmers a chance to take proactive steps in securing their land for future generations. It combines financial support with long-term stewardship, making it one of the most impactful tools now available to protect farmland. Farmers who are committed to leaving a lasting legacy should carefully consider how this program can help meet both family and community goals.
