McDowell County has established a Voluntary Farmland Preservation Program to protect and preserve agricultural lands and activities.

We currently have 1 vacancy on the Agriculture Advisory Board. We encourage volunteers to visit the McDowell County website to apply for the board and other volunteer opportunities.

Who is eligible? McDowell County Land Owners who own at least one tract that meets the following minimum acreage requirements:

Agriculture—10 acres in actual production (actively engaged in the
commercial production or growing of crops, plants, or animals).

Horticulture—5 acres in actual production (actively engaged in the
commercial production or growing of fruits and vegetables or nursery and
floral products).

Forestry—20 acres in actual production (actively engaged in the commercial
growing of trees).