How We Protect Farmland
Bilger Farm
At Connecticut Farmland Trust, protecting farmland starts with listening.
Every farm — and every farm family — is unique. That’s why we begin by learning about your land and your goals. Whether you're thinking about protecting your farm now, passing it on to the next generation, or just starting to explore your options, we're here to help you make an informed decision.
We use a variety of conservation tools, including voluntary agricultural conservation agreements, to make sure land stays in agriculture and, in many cases, remains more affordable for future farmers.
But we also know it can feel overwhelming. That’s why we walk alongside you every step of the way, explaining your options clearly and helping you weigh what’s best for you, your family, and your farm.
Learn more about how we help landowners protect farms across Connecticut.
Clear Steps, Trusted Support
We believe in transparency and partnership. If you decide to move forward, we’ll explain each part of the process in plain language, including timelines, funding options, and any legal considerations. Our team handles the technical details and paperwork, so you can focus on what matters most — your land and your legacy.
You can explore our full guide: How to Protect Your Farm, which includes an easy-to-read online booklet that outlines the basics.
Still have questions?
We’ve gathered answers to the most common ones in our FAQs.
Conservation That Lasts
When a farm is protected, it’s not the end of the story — it’s the beginning of a long-term relationship. Each year, we check in with landowners and visit the protected property to reconnect, answer questions, and ensure that the original conservation goals are still being met.
Want to know what conservation looks like in practice?
Take a look at some of our Featured Farm Stories, organized by topic. Each one shows how landowners have found solutions that reflect their values and vision for the land.
Thinking About the Future
Protecting farmland doesn’t just preserve soil and open space, it can also help with family transitions, financial planning, and peace of mind.
You can learn more about the benefits of farm transfer, whether you're planning ahead or already in the middle of a generational change.
If you’re curious about the legal side, you can also read our Frequently Asked Questions about Conservation Easements. Every easement is tailored to the land and the landowner, but these questions offer a helpful starting point to think through the legal side.
A Community of Protected Farms
More than 7,700 acres of farmland have been protected with Connecticut Farmland Trust. These lands are growing food, supporting farm families, and strengthening our local food system.
You can see the farms that have farm stores on our Protected Farms Map. And you can shop at local farms and farm markets by using this Farm Market Guide.
Questions?
Want to talk about your land and your goals? Contact us for a confidential, no obligation, conversation. We’re here to listen and help.
