Over $64,000 in State Funding Bolsters Local Farmland Preservation, Says Leadbeter

June 11, 2026

HARRISBURG – To bolster Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry and economy, Rep. Robert Leadbeter (R-Columbia) announced a 35-acre farm in Locust Township, owned by John C. and Suzanne Kay Brokenshire, is the recipient of $64,689 in state grant funding from the Commonwealth’s Farmland Preservation Program.

The money is used as means to purchase development rights, preventing local farms from being subject to future residential or commercial projects.

“Columbia County’s farmers and agribusinesses are the backbone of our local economy and a cornerstone of the conservative values we hold dear,” said Leadbeter. “I value the strong working relationship I have built with Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. By continuing to work together, we can support our agriculture community, strengthen opportunities for future generations, and ensure Columbia County remains a place where this sector can thrive.”

To date, the program has protected 6,726 farms and 667,360 acres in 58 counties from future development.