Application deadline for state farmland preservation grants is Dec. 4

County governments pursuing farmland preservation projects can apply for funding assistance from the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund. Applications and guidelines for the 2010 funding cycle are available online at www.ncadfp.org or by calling (919) 733-7125. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Dec. 4.

"The General Assembly appropriated $2 million to the trust fund for the 2010 fiscal year, and we're looking forward to helping communities across the state work to preserve working farms and farmland," said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

The trust fund's purpose is to support projects that encourage the preservation of qualifying agricultural, horticultural and forest lands to foster the growth, development and sustainability of family farms.

Grants can be awarded to secure agricultural conservation easements on lands used for agricultural production; to support public and private enterprise programs that promote profitable and sustainable agricultural, horticultural and forestland activities; and for the development of agricultural plans.