As the average age of a farmer in our state approaches 60 years old, the need for finding tools that ensure beginning farmers can access land and keep it in active food production becomes more apparent.
Trust Montana has partnered with the Community Food and Agriculture Coalition to fine-tune the CLT tool and make it more accessible for Montana farmers who are aging out of farming and desire to sell or donate land to Trust Montana, and to those who wish to farm but cannot afford to buy land on the regular market. Just like with CLT home ownership, the farmers on CLT land own the structures and other improvements, but purchase them at a price far below the market value of the property.
Trust Montana is a non profit and can accept land donations. Land donors receive tax benefits based on the appraised value of the land, and can stipulate land management plans for future farmers to follow.
If you are a farmer who wants to sell their land, donate it, or donate it but maintain the right to live on the land, Trust Montana staff can talk you through your options for making sure the land is maintained as affordable and productive for years to come. If you are a farmer and you are looking for available land and want to be added to our contact list, email our Stewardship and Projects Coordinator, Bill Henry: bill@trustmontana.org.
