Dane County Launches Pilot Agricultural Conservation Easement Program to Preserve Farmland and Protect Water Quality
October 07, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-800-1127
County Executive
DANE COUNTY — Dane County is launching a new pilot program to help preserve productive farmland and protect vital water resources through voluntary conservation easements. The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) Pilot will provide $300,000 in funding to local units of government and qualified non-profits, and is now accepting applications through November 21, 2025. To learn more about eligibility requirements and to download the ACEP Pilot application, please visit the Dane County Planning website HERE or view the attached ACEP Pilot introduction document.
The pilot program will support the voluntary purchase of agricultural conservation easements, which restrict future development on farmland to ensure long-term conservation. These easements will also play a key role in the county’s ongoing commitment to improving and maintaining water quality, by ensuring that protected lands meet nutrient management and erosion control standards.
“Protecting our farmland and water resources goes hand in hand with protecting our future,” said County Executive Melissa Agard. “This pilot program is another example of how Dane County is leading with innovation to safeguard the land that feeds us and the waters that define our quality of life. By working in partnership with local governments and nonprofits, we can preserve the rich agricultural heritage of Dane County while building a more sustainable future for the next generation.”
Laura Hicklin, Director of the Dane County Land & Water Resources Department, said the program will strengthen partnerships with communities and farmers across the county. “We are excited to partner with local communities and area farmers to permanently protect valuable farmland while keeping our water resources clean,” Hicklin said. “Through this program, farmers that utilize the best management practices will receive support to keep their property in agriculture, which not only benefits them directly but also creates stability for neighboring farms.”
Todd Violante, Director of Dane County Planning & Development, emphasized that the pilot aligns closely with the county’s long-term land-use goals. “This program is an important step in implementing the goals of Dane County’s Farmland Preservation Plan,” Violante said. “By helping communities and nonprofit partners secure conservation easements, we’re giving them the resources they need to preserve farmland and protect water quality in a way that fits their local priorities. It’s a smart investment in both land-use planning and long-term sustainability.”
The creation of the ACEP Pilot also advances the goals and policies outlined in the county’s Farmland Preservation Plan and Land & Water Resource Management Plan, strengthening Dane County’s leadership in conservation and sustainable land use.