USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service State Conservationist Craig Derickson has announced the availability of nearly $1.4 million to protect farmland in Pennsylvania through the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program in fiscal year 2007.

Proposals are due April 27.

"Preserving Pennsylvania’s prime agricultural lands helps ensure a vibrant future for American agriculture," said Derickson. "Once protected by conservation easements, this land will be shielded from development pressure and continue to support our safe and abundant food supply."

NRCS is seeking proposals from local governments, non-governmental organizations, state agencies and federally recognized tribal groups interested in working together to acquire conservation easements on farms and ranches. The Pennsylvania NRCS State Office must receive proposals by 5:00 p.m. on April 27, 2007. NRCS is expected to announce final project selections in June.

Since the program's inception in 1996, FRPP has contributed to protection of more than 38,000 acres of farm land in Pennsylvania. FRPP protects productive agricultural land by purchasing conservation easements to limit conversion of farm and ranch lands to non-agricultural uses.

In this voluntary program, NRCS provides up to 50 percent of the appraised fair market value of the conservation easement; State and local entities are required to contribute at least a 25 percent cash match.

For other eligibility and application requirements, visit the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program webpage or contact Martha Joseph, Pennsylvania FRPP State Program Manager at 814-796-6760, ext. 114.

3/23/2007