Description
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources is seeking proposals for the agricultural use of approximately 15.9 acres of state-owned land in New Braintree, MA. The goal of the State-Owned Farmland Licensing Program is to maintain productive farmland resources on state-owned lands and contribute to the Massachusetts agricultural economy and local food system. Eligible applicants must demonstrate the intent and capacity to actively farm the licensed property for agricultural production, and priority will be given to historically underserved farmers and those who have not previously been awarded a state farmland license. The license agreement will be issued for a period of up to five years, with an option to renew for an additional five years.
Some key points to consider include:
• The property is approximately 15.9 acres and has been subdivided into several parcels.
• The property has been used for forage production in the past.
• The soil types on the property include prime farmland soils, such as Ridgebury-Whitman association and Paxton fine sandy loam.
• Applicants must submit a proposal that includes a clear description of how they intend to use the licensed parcels for agricultural purposes.
• Applicants must also provide information on their farming experience, equipment, and marketing plans.
• The proposed annual license fee will be considered in the evaluation process.
• Priority will be given to applicants who propose to use organic growing practices according to USDA guidelines.