FREDERICK, Md. – In a significant move to protect its agricultural heritage, Frederick County has approved the permanent preservation of four farms in Rocky Ridge, owned by the Eaves family. This initiative adds 704 acres of farmland to the county’s protected lands, bringing the total preserved through the Installment Purchase Program to an impressive 24,959 acres.

“Preserving farmland is vital to ensuring the future of Frederick County’s agricultural community and maintaining our rural landscape,” said Katie Stevens, Director of the Frederick County Office of Agriculture. “By protecting these acres, we honor generations of farmers and secure opportunities for future generations to thrive in a sustainable environment.”

This recent preservation effort underscores the county’s commitment to safeguarding productive farmland, a key component of the Livable Frederick Comprehensive Plan. It not only supports the sustainability of the local agricultural economy but also emphasizes conservation of natural resources and the preservation of the county’s rural character.

With this latest addition, Frederick County has now permanently preserved a total of 77,992 acres of farmland through various agricultural land preservation programs. This reinforces the county’s dedication to maintaining its valuable natural and economic assets for the benefit of future generations.

For more information about the agriculture preservation efforts in Frederick County, please contact Beth Ahalt, Agriculture Preservation Program Specialist, at BAhalt1@FrederickCountyMD.gov or call 301-600-1134.