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Purpose
The Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program enables Stafford County to acquire conservation easements voluntarily offered by property owners as a way to ensure that Stafford’s resources are protected and efficiently used, and limits further residential development on a property. The program is proposed to preserve open space and rural lands; farm and forest land; water resources and environmentally sensitive lands; and wildlife and aquatic habitat through recordation of a conservation easement. It will also help to shape the character, direction, and timing of development in the county; improve the quality of life for residents; and promote recreation and tourism through the preservation of scenic and historic resources. Eligibility requirements and additional information can be found in Stafford County Code, Chapter 22A. Application Rounds
Three PDR application rounds have been held since 2009. As of July 1, 2022, 1,035 acres of rural lands have been preserved under PDR conservation easements (CONSERVED PDR PROPERTIES). Application rounds are held when sufficient County funds are available.
2022 PDR APPLICATION
A public information meeting was held on August 16, 2022. Eight new applications were received in the 2022 application round. Future rounds will be announced when sufficient funds are available.
Please contact Kathy Baker, PDR Administrator, at (540) 658-8675, for more information.
2022 PDR APPLICATION
A public information meeting was held on August 16, 2022. Eight new applications were received in the 2022 application round. Future rounds will be announced when sufficient funds are available.
Please contact Kathy Baker, PDR Administrator, at (540) 658-8675, for more information.
Agricultural and Land Conservation (ALC) Committee
The Board of Supervisors established the Agricultural and Land Conservation Committee to implement the Purchase of Development Rights Program to work with the program administrator to promote the PDR program and review applications from landowners who apply to the program. The Committee also evaluates additional opportunities for the protection of open space. Over 12,000 acres of land have been protected through various means, as shown on the OPEN SPACE LANDS map.
The Agricultural and Land Conservation (ALC) Committee meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 PM in the ABC Conference Room of the County Government Center. The Planning and Zoning staff provide support.
Contact Kathy Baker, PDR Administrator, at (540) 658-8675 for more information.
The Agricultural and Land Conservation (ALC) Committee meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 PM in the ABC Conference Room of the County Government Center. The Planning and Zoning staff provide support.
Contact Kathy Baker, PDR Administrator, at (540) 658-8675 for more information.