Conservation easement protects Stuart’s Fruit Farm

BEDFORD HILLS – The Westchester Land Trust has closed on a conservation easement to protect Stuart’s Fruit Farm in Somers.  It took a decade to complete the deal, which is valued at almost $3 million.
The conservation easement extinguishes the development rights on the farm’s 172 acres ensuring that the land remains available for agricultural use in perpetuity. Without the easement, the land could have been sold for residential development.
Established in 1828, the farm has a variety of fruits and vegetables for purchase.
Partnering with the Westchester Land Trust to fund the easement are the state, Westchester County, Scenic Hudson Land Trust, the Town of Somers and Somers Land Trust.