As in years past, Kent County is now accepting applications for its Purchase of Development Rights program, where farm owners voluntarily sell development rights for their land to the county. In exchange, a permanent deed restriction is placed on the property, ensuring it remains dedicated to agricultural use.
According to a 2022 Agricultural Census, Kent County lost more than 13,000 acres of farmland to development between 2017 and 2022. Once farmland is converted for development, it cannot be returned to farming.
Since its inception in 2002, the program has saved approximately 3,000 acres of farmland.
According to the program’s website, Kent County is one of the most agriculturally productive counties in Michigan, with a market value of over $231 million annually.
Applications for 2025 are being accepted through April 30th. Farm owners can learn more about the program at two informational meetings, this Thursday, January 23rd at 6 PM at the Fairway of Kent County in Lowell, or next Tuesday, January 28th at 10 AM at the North Kent Sheriff Station in Cedar Springs.