Middlesex County Farmland Preservation Program completes acquisition of 35-acre farm located in Monroe Township

This acquisition brings the County’s total amount of preserved farmland through the Farmland Preservation Program to approximately 3,746 acres

*Photos Attached*

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ – Middlesex County safeguarded a 35-acre farm located in Monroe Township through the Farmland Preservation Program on Wednesday, May 26.

The County, in partnership with the State and the Township of Monroe, purchased the development rights for the farmland located on Federal Road, owned by the Estate of the late Mr. Anthony Zimbicki, Sr., of Monroe Township, for the total of $945,837. The State contributed $567,502.20, the County paid $189,167.40, and Monroe Township paid $189,167.40 towards the purchase.

“The Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners has always had a commitment to preserving land within our beautiful County, evident in our thousands of acres of farmland and open space already preserved,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald Rios.  “We look forward to continuing to preserve more farmland properties and protecting them from non-agricultural development as it’s an investment in all of our futures. Farmland preservation is the first step to ensuring food is available for generations to come.”

Overall, with the addition of this farm, more than 5,459 acres of farmland have been preserved throughout the County, of which 3,746 acres have been specifically preserved through the Farmland Preservation Program. The more than 5,400 acres includes preservation easements purchased through the County Farmland Preservation Program funds, as well as acquisitions made directly by the State, the municipalities, a non-profit organization, and State-owned lands.

Middlesex County’s Farmland Preservation Program purchases the non-agriculture development rights on farmland that meets criteria established by the Middlesex County Agriculture Development Board and the New Jersey State Agriculture Development Committee. The value is determined by two independent appraisals, and the farmland is preserved by placing an agriculture preservation easement on the property. The State, County, and municipality share the cost of the farms’ development rights, with the State contributing much of the purchase price. Middlesex County’s program is strictly voluntary; farmland owners interested in participating in the program must submit a formal application to the Middlesex County Agriculture Development Board. Farm owners interested in the program can contact Laurie Sobel, Supervising Planner, of the Middlesex County Office of Planning at 732-745-4014.

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MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ

Middlesex County is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, three universities, 18 park systems, and world-class healthcare and research facilities making it one of the nation’s most dynamic regions and a leader in technology, transportation, the arts, and food innovation. As one of the most diverse populations in the country, Middlesex County is home to over 832,000 residents living throughout 25 municipalities and employing nearly 40,000 people. Ranked #1 in the state for best schools, the County offers an award-winning vocational school system, a county college, and workforce development creating a unique ecosystem in which opportunities abound. Conveniently located between New York and Philadelphia, Middlesex County is a leading destination for businesses and residents alike to live, work, and play – and has been since the 17th century. For more information, visit middlesexcountynj.gov and find us on Facebook and Instagram.