Agricultural preserves are restrictive covenants that limit land use to agriculture or forestry for a minimum of eight years. In return, landowners receive property tax credits, protection for normal agricultural practices, and other benefits.
Owners of land in agricultural preserves receive the following benefits:
§ A $1.50 per acre per year property tax credit.
§ Annexation proceedings affecting agricultural preserves are limited and must meet certain criteria.
§ Eminent domain proceedings are limited and subject to public and administrative review.
§ Local governments may not enact ordinances or regulations that restrict normal farm practices unless directly related to public health and/or safety.
§ Public water, sewer, and drainage projects are prohibited unless the owner chooses to use and will benefit from the projects. Sig Jaastad.