Governor Maura Healey has designated March 18, 2025, as Massachusetts Agriculture Day, an event celebrating the contributions of the state’s agricultural community. Highlighting this event, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced over $5 million in funding to protect nearly 400 acres of farmland through the state’s Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) program. Governor Healey emphasized the state’s commitment to supporting farmers amid federal uncertainty, stating, “Massachusetts is fully committed to delivering the support, programs, and resources that empower our farmers to grow, expand and succeed.”
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll acknowledged the economic impact of the agricultural sector, noting, “With over 7,000 farms across Massachusetts, our agricultural sector is an economic powerhouse in our rural economy and beyond.”
The annual Massachusetts Agriculture Day at the State House allows agricultural stakeholders and legislators to engage and address farmers’ vital issues while sampling local products. Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper commended the resilience of Massachusetts farmers, stating, “Our programs are designed to keep existing farms strong and revive unused land for farming.”
The Massachusetts Agricultural Youth Council, announced by Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner Ashley Randle, continues its mission to develop future agricultural leaders. Fifteen high school students will participate in the Council’s programs, which include agricultural education, legislative insights, and professional skill enhancement.
The APR program, established in 1977, aims to retain farmland for agricultural use by compensating farmers based on the difference between fair market value and agricultural value. An additional $573,817 was awarded to 19 farms through the Stewardship Assistance and Restoration on APRs (SARA) Program to help restore farmland for active commercial use.
Acknowledging the collaborative effort to preserve the agricultural sector, State Senator Jo Comerford praised the investment in local farming, and State Representative Natalie M. Blais highlighted the state’s ongoing support for agriculture.
U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service also contributed over $2 million for APR projects, reinforcing the commitment to land preservation.
