Delaware’s commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage is showcased through a unique and impactful initiative: the Farmland Preservation License Plate. Featuring a colorful farm sunset with “Save Our Farmers & Farmland” emblazoned across it, this special plate is more than just a decorative item, it is a symbol of the state’s dedication to protecting its agricultural lands and supporting local farmers.
The Farmland Preservation License Plate can be displayed on a variety of vehicles, including cars, trailers, and trucks with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 26,000 pounds or less. For a one-time purchase price of $50, Delaware residents can proudly display this vibrant plate while contributing to a crucial cause. Of the purchase price, $35 goes directly to the Delaware Farmland Preservation Fund, which supports efforts to safeguard the state’s agricultural lands. The remaining $15 covers the cost of manufacturing and issuing the plate.
This initiative is part of Delaware’s broader efforts to preserve its farmland. With the announcement of the 27th round of easement selections by the Delaware Agricultural Lands Preservation Foundation, the state has now permanently preserved 151,257 acres of farmland.
“Preserving farmland protects Delaware’s agriculture heritage and its number one industry,” Gov. John Carney said in a 2023 statement.
In the recent 2023 selection process, 60 farms were chosen from 121 offers, spanning 5,353 acres across New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties. The average discount rate for these easements was 47 percent, highlighting the competitive nature of the program.
Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse praised the increased funding and the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in making this possible.
For Delaware farmers interested in preserving their lands, specific eligibility requirements must be met, such as zoning for agriculture, a minimum Land Evaluation and Site Assessment score of 170, and at least $1,000 in agricultural sales annually. Additionally, properties must generally have at least 10 acres of cropland. Entirely forested properties can participate through the Forestland Preservation Program.
Delaware’s agriculture industry remains a vital part of its economy. With over 2,158 farms contributing more than $2.1 billion in market value, agriculture is a cornerstone of the state’s prosperity. Despite a decline in the number of farms, Delaware continues to produce significant agricultural outputs. Broilers (chickens raised for meat) lead the production, followed by corn, soybeans, chicken eggs, and wheat. These products not only feed the local population but also support the state’s economy significantly.
According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, Delaware farms are primarily family-owned, with 72 percent of farms operated by families or individuals. The average farm size is 242 acres, and the state’s farms cover more than 522,000 acres. The market value of crops, including nursery and greenhouse products, exceeds $470 million, while livestock, poultry, and their products contribute over $1.6 billion.
The Farmland Preservation License Plate represents a tangible way for Delaware residents to support these preservation efforts. By purchasing and displaying this plate, individuals can help ensure that Delaware’s rich agricultural heritage is preserved for future generations, one mile at a time.
