Our mission is to ensure the future of farming in New England by putting more farmers more securely on more land.
Since 2004 we have provided caring support and expert guidance to help farmers, landowners and communities navigate the complex challenges of land access, tenure, and transfer. The ability for an older generation to exit farming and a next generation to enter farming constitutes one of the greatest challenges for farming in the region. The average age of New England’s farmers is beyond retirement age, and they need support transitioning their farms to a new generation. At the same time, beginning and non-white farmers struggle to gain access to farmland.
We believe that any strategy to improve land access and tenure security for farmers must make land:
- Available in sufficient quantity, suitable locations, accessible, and findable
- Affordable whether for purchase or rent
- Appropriate for farming and related uses by providing security or housing or infrastructure
- Equitable with clear rights, responsibilities, and equity for all parties
We help farmers realize their family, business, and community goals with our comprehensive and collaborative approach. We develop, promote and support diversity and innovation around farmland tenure. We seek approaches that benefit farmers as well as landowners and the land. And we take a systems view by addressing all aspects of the issue and working with all who have a stake in the future of farming.
Together we’re gaining ground for farmers.