Bill > SB2335

This bill establishes an Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, managed by the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC), to purchase easements from willing private landowners. An agricultural conservation easement is a legal agreement that restricts the use of land to agricultural purposes in perpetuity, meaning forever, to preserve it for farming. The ADC will pay landowners an amount equal to the difference between the land's fair market value and its value when restricted for agricultural use. The program will prioritize land based on factors like soil quality, water access, proximity to processing facilities, food security contribution, and cultural and environmental value. The State will hold title to these easements, though counties that provide satisfactory assistance may hold joint title. The ADC can also collaborate with federal agencies, non-profits, and private entities for matching funds. The bill also creates an Agricultural Conservation Easement Management Special Fund to support the program, funded by legislative appropriations, grants, donations, and program revenue, and appropriates funds for the program's implementation and administration for fiscal years 2026-2027.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2335&year=2026