Access Tools
Creative Leasing
Use a lease to access otherwise unaffordable land or build equity.
LLCs
Gradually access land with low up-front costs and built-in flexibility.
Collaborative Farming
Farmers can pool resources for mutual benefit.
Conservation Easements
Raise funds, provide access for new farmers, and protect farmland.
Affirmative Agricultural Easements
Keep the land in farming and owned by farmers.
OPAVs
A new way to raise funds and make farmland more affordable.
Property Tax
Find out how your state lowers property taxes for active farm operations.
Land Trusts
Sell or donate conservation easements and protect farmland.
Federal Conservation Programs
Funding linked to on-farm conservation.
Veterans Programs
Financial and educational support for veterans who want to become farmers.
The Center for Agriculture and Food Systems is an initiative of Vermont Law School, and this toolkit provides general legal information for educational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute, and should not be relied upon, for legal advice. Each farmer’s circumstances are unique, state laws vary, and the information contained herein is specific to the time of publication. Accordingly, for legal advice, please consult an attorney licensed in your state.