ACEP-ALE success story: Bowditch Bottoms

Across our nation, we are seeing success in implementing Agricultural Conservation Easement Program-Agricultural Land Easements funding to conserve our farmland and ranchland for future generations. The following case study shows how ALE programming has helped the conservation of Bowditch Bottoms in North Carolina.

In western North Carolina, only 2% of the soils are considered prime. Permanently protecting those soils will support local food infrastructure vital to food security and create long-term security for agriculture in the area.

Ken and Ida Brown were excited by the idea of preserving farmland and creating opportunities for local food production. By placing a permanent easement on their land, they are ensuring that it will remain in agriculture for future generations of farmers to come.

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy was able to purchase the easement with the funds from the NRCS ALE program (along with other funders). With this easement, Bowditch Bottoms will remain in agriculture forever.