Bauquier County Board Approves Development Rights Funding for Smith Price and Silversippi

Fauquier County's Board of Supervisors made significant strides in land conservation during their regular meeting on August 14, 2025, approving funding for the Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program. This initiative aims to protect agricultural land and mitigate the impacts of development in the county.

The board unanimously approved funding for three applicants—Smith, Price, and Silversippi—under the PDR program, which has successfully preserved over 13,000 acres of farmland since its inception in 2002. The program utilizes a scoring rubric to evaluate properties based on size, soil productivity, risk of development, and other factors, ensuring a fair and objective selection process. This year marks the first round of applicants since 2023, with six out of eight candidates recommended for approval after thorough evaluations.

In a separate motion, the board also considered funding for Woodward Holdings LLC and Thomas Wiseman. However, this proposal sparked debate among supervisors due to the smaller size of the properties and concerns about retaining development rights. Some board members expressed reservations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards for the program. They argued that allowing these smaller parcels into the program could set a precedent that undermines the program's integrity.

Despite the discussions, the board ultimately moved forward with the resolutions, highlighting the community's commitment to preserving agricultural land. The agricultural development department will seek matching funds from the Virginia Department of Forestry to help offset costs, further enhancing the program's sustainability.

As Fauquier County continues to prioritize land conservation, these decisions reflect a proactive approach to balancing development and agricultural preservation, ensuring the county's rural character remains intact for future generations.