About Marin agricultural land trust (malt)
Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1980 by a group of ranchers and environmentalists who were concerned about the rapid loss of farmland in Marin County. The organization's mission is to permanently preserve agricultural land in Marin County, California, by working with farmers and ranchers to protect their land from development.
MALT has been successful in preserving over 54,000 acres of farmland since its inception. This has been achieved through the use of conservation easements, which are legal agreements between MALT and landowners that restrict development on the property while allowing for continued agricultural use.
The organization works closely with local farmers and ranchers to ensure that their land remains productive while also protecting it from urbanization. MALT provides technical assistance to help farmers improve their operations and increase profitability while maintaining sustainable practices.
One of MALT's key initiatives is its Farmland Forever program, which aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving farmland for future generations. The program includes educational events such as farm tours, workshops, and community outreach programs.
MALT also operates a Farm Loan Program that provides low-interest loans to local farmers for equipment purchases or other capital improvements. This helps support small-scale agriculture in Marin County by providing access to affordable financing options.
In addition to its conservation efforts, MALT also promotes sustainable agriculture practices through its Foodshed Project. This initiative focuses on building a more resilient local food system by connecting consumers with locally grown produce and supporting small-scale producers.
Overall, Marin Agricultural Land Trust plays an important role in preserving the unique agricultural heritage of Marin County while promoting sustainable farming practices. Its work ensures that future generations will have access to fresh locally grown food while protecting valuable natural resources for years to come.