Farmland Preservation - Information for Applicants

The Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund application process has changed. All Cycle 19 applications will now follow a multi-part structure. Conservation Easement Applications will have three application portions – the Intent to Apply, the Eligibility, Background, and Purpose, and the Additional Evaluation Materials. All other applications will have two application portions – the Intent to Apply and the Eligibility, Background, and Purpose. Please refer to the Important 2025 Dates At a Glance chart below for information on the deadlines associated with each application portion.

If you have questions about eligibility and the application process after reviewing the documentation provided in the tabs at the bottom of the page, please contact Kelsey Pearce via email at kelsey.pearce@ncagr.gov.

Please note: All applicants for conservation easements, agricultural development projects, and agricultural plans must be non-profit conservation organizations or county agencies, per N.C.G.S.106-744. Farmers, landowners, and others interested in applying must partner with a non-profit conservation organization or county agency to participate in an ADFP Trust Fund grant proposal.

No Beehive Grant Fund applications will be accepted this year. For apiary-related questions, contact the Apiary Services section of the Plant Industry Division.