“We preserved our land to safeguard future farms and preserve productive farmland, for future generations.”

Edward & Margie Sossa, East Huntingdon

“On May 22, 2013 we chose to preserve our farm in Mt. Pleasant Township for four basic reasons: First – Its prior owners had done so by raising food crops and livestock on it for more than 150 years. Second- We were mindful of the present need to ensure the future existence of family farms in our county as well as across the state. Third – The County Commissioners had recognized the benefit of adopting the Agricultural Land Preservation Program as a means of preserving farms in Westmoreland County. Fourth – We witnessed the dedicated and effective administration of the program by Betty Reefer. Her work and that of the various members of the Board have led to the success and continued growth of the meaningful program. Carol and I are satisfied to know that our farm will always have stewards to preserve it.”

Walnut Bottom Farm, The Ober’s, Mt. Pleasant

“I chose to enter the Farmland Preservation program because I strongly believe in the heritage of agriculture in our area. My father and grandfather instilled this at an early age. We all worked together as a Dairy Farm family to maintain our livelihood and farm. Times have changed and I realize that the only constant is change. Change from conventional tilling to no tilling, dairy to beef, whatever it takes to keep things going. I feel the family farm is still a strong block in American society.”

Frank E. Skacel, Jr., VMD, Derry