MDARD, Michigan Agricultural Preservation Fund Board Award $1.8 Million of Grant Funding to Local Farmland Preservation Programs

May 27, 2025

By Lynsey Mukomel

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan Agricultural Preservation Fund Board (MAPFB) today announced more than $1.8 million of Agricultural Preservation Fund grants to protect farmland in six counties and townships.

"MDARD is committed to sustaining Michigan's rich agricultural heritage and to protecting farmland crucial to the prosperity of communities throughout our state," said MDARD Director and MAPFB Chair Tim Boring. "Through the Agricultural Preservation Fund, MDARD can help local governments conserve farmland for the future benefit of their residents."

After a competitive review process, MDARD selected the following local counties and townships to receive grants that will help preserve 655.49 acres:

Washtenaw County - $525,600
Dexter Township - $449,280
Ottawa County - $352,149
Berrien County - $250,000
Macomb County - $135,000
Northfield Township - $100,000

Source : michigan.gov

Video: Agriculture Secretary Rollins Speaks at American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim

One of the highlights at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, was an address by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. During her remarks, she thanked America’s farmers and ranchers and said the Trump Administration is fully aware that food security is national security.

She also acknowledged the challenging times in Farm Country with low commodity prices and high input costs and said that’s why the President stepped in to help with the recent Bridge Assistance Program.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck says that Farm Bureau members are appreciative of the help and looks forward to working with the American Farm Bureau Federation and its presence in Washington, DC to keep farmers and ranchers in business.

Secretary Rollins said the Trump Administration is also committed to helping ranchers build back America’s cattle herd while also providing more high-quality U.S. beef at the meat case for consumers.

And she also announced more assistance for specialty crop producers who only received a fraction of the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA).

It’s important to note that producers who qualify for Farmer Bridge Assistance can expect the Farm Service Agency to start issuing payments in late February. For more information, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.