Agricultural Preservation

Overview

Calvert’s values have traditionally been centered around preserving its rural character. The County’s Comprehensive Plan states “Calvert County has long held the values of preserving the rural landscape and creating vibrant Town Centers. Calvert County has focused on preserving its rural character since its first comprehensive plan and has continuously influenced Calvert County’s land development policies.”

Furthermore, the County continues to strive forward with public and private partners toward a goal of 40,000 acres. “Preservation of the rural landscape has been a hallmark of Calvert County Planning. In 1978, the county set a goal of preserving 20,000 acres of farm and forest land. In 1997, it achieved its 20,000-acres goal and doubled its goal to 40,000 acres." (Calvert County Comprehensive Plan) To date, over 32,600 acres have been preserved through various county, state, and federal programs and the efforts of our partners, land trusts and private property owners.

Our local land preservation partners:

• Calvert Farmland Trust
• American Chestnut Land Trust
• Southern Calvert Land Trust
• Cove Point Natural Heritage Trust
• Patuxent Tidewater Land Trust
• Calvert Nature Society
• Southern Maryland Resource Conservation and Development

Land Preservation Map

Calvert County GIS Land Preservation Map highlights lands that have been protected through conservation programs, easements, and long-term stewardship initiatives.