Senate committee advances Space bill providing nearly $65 million for farmland preservation
TRENTON, N.J. — The Senate Environment and Energy Committee has approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sen. Parker Space that would provide nearly $65 million to preserve farmland and support agricultural stewardship projects across New Jersey.
The bill, S-4425, would appropriate funding through the State Agriculture Development Committee to help preserve working farms, protect open space and support conservation efforts.
“Agriculture is woven into New Jersey’s identity and if we want to keep the Garden in the Garden State, we must continue investing in the farmers who feed our communities and keep our farmland productive,” said Senator Space. “Every acre we save today helps preserve the open spaces that define our state and protects New Jersey’s agricultural heritage for future generations.”
Under the proposal, approximately $56.6 million would be allocated for the preservation of farmland through the acquisition of development easements. Another $2.6 million would fund stewardship projects, including deer fencing and soil and water conservation initiatives, while roughly $5.5 million would cover administrative expenses associated with farmland preservation efforts.
Supporters of the legislation said the funding would help ensure farms remain productive while protecting agricultural land from future development.
According to the State Agriculture Development Committee, 2,925 farms encompassing approximately 254,968 acres had been preserved through New Jersey’s farmland preservation program as of April 2026.
The legislation now advances for further consideration by the full Senate.
