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Durham County marks 25 years of farmland preservation, highlights conservation easements and partnerships
Summary
The Durham County Board of Commissioners celebrated 25 years of farmland preservation on March 23, honoring landowners and partners and noting that the county has completed 30 conservation easements protecting 2,491 acres through grants, donations and local investment.
Durham County commissioners on March 23 adopted a resolution recognizing 25 years of the county’s farmland preservation program, thanking landowners and partners who helped protect roughly 2,491 acres through 30 conservation easements.
Commissioner Wendy Jacobs read the resolution detailing the program’s history, starting with a 2001 conservation easement and noting that the county has leveraged federal, private and local funding to protect farmland. “During which the county has completed 30 easements protecting 2,491 acres and ensuring the viability of 20 family farms,” Jacobs read. The resolution cited grant and donation totals included in the county record and stated the county’s commitment to expanding preservation efforts.
Nicole Conley, chair of the Durham County Farmland Preservation Board, thanked the board and farmland board members and recognized staff including Jane Korys and others who helped build the program. Celeste Burns, Open Space and Real Estate Manager, highlighted the Open Space and Real Estate team’s role in complex projects and thanked USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service partners who were present.
Commissioners praised the program as a long‑term investment in local food production, water quality and open space. The board took a photo with participating landowners and recognized ongoing and forthcoming farm campus work and grant funding.
Next steps: staff will continue farmland preservation work, complete documentation for attendees, and pursue planned farm campus activities and identified easement closings.
