Programs and tools to help landowners preserve farmland, open space, and rural character.
Why Conserve?
Conserving land helps protect working farms for future generations, maintains the open space and scenic views that define Dutchess County, and supports healthy soil, clean water, and wildlife. For landowners, conservation can also provide financial benefits through tax relief, easements, or cost-share programs while ensuring the land continues to serve the community.
Partnership for Manageable Growth (PMG) – Dutchess County’s matching grant program that helps fund conservation easements for farmland and open space (up to 50% of project costs). Since its launch, PMG has preserved thousands of acres across the county. See More
Dutchess County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) – Offers technical support and conservation planning for farmers and landowners, including soil worksheets, stream and erosion projects, and Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) plans. SWCD
Dutchess Land Conservancy (DLC) – A local nonprofit land trust that works directly with landowners to conserve farmland, forests, wetlands, and natural resources through easements and long-term stewardship. DLC
Scenic Hudson – A regional nonprofit focused on protecting farmland, riverfronts, and scenic landscapes. They frequently partner with DLC, the County, and state agencies to protect farmland and viewsheds in Dutchess. Scenic Hudson
Agricultural Districts – New York State program that protects farmland from restrictive local laws, helps reduce conflicts with non-farm neighbors, and supports long-term agricultural use. See More
NYS Farmland Protection Implementation Grants – State funding program that supports the purchase of development rights (conservation easements) to permanently protect farmland, often administered in partnership with land trusts like DLC or Scenic Hudson. See More
American Farmland Trust (AFT) – A national nonprofit with an active New York office. AFT leads farmland protection and policy work and runs Farmland for a New Generation New York, a program connecting landowners with new and beginning farmers through a statewide matching service and Regional Navigators. See More
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) – Provides technical and financial assistance for conservation practices like soil health, erosion control, water management, and habitat improvement. Also administers the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) to help protect farmland. See More
