POUGHKEEPSIE – Over 87 acres of farmland in Milan owned by Larry and Betti Steel will be protected with a conservation easement. The arrangement for the Great Song Farm was facilitated by Dutchess County, the Dutchess Land Conservancy and the state Department of Agriculture and Markets.
The county contributed $115,750 toward the purchase of the development rights, ensuring the land remains open and available for farming for current and future generations.
County Executive Marcus Molinaro noted the county funding was approved in March as part of the Partnership for Manageable Growth program.
“This investment is not only part of Dutchess County’s Agricultural Management plan, but is well received by area farmers all because we are committed to trying to drive down the cost for farmers who are small businesses and employ a great number of people throughout the county so that we can continue, not only to enhance agriculture and grow it, but to make farming as viable as possible,” Molinaro said.
The Steel property hosts Great Song Farm, a 110-member Community Supported Agriculture fruit and vegetable operation, a 30 beehive apiary and pasture for free range laying hens and cattle. A farm store is also on the property.
Larry and Betti Steel (left), County Executive Marcus Molinaro (4th from left), among those commemorating
the conservation easement
