Small farmers seek Skagit's big magic

Elizabeth Bragg, co-owner of Long Hearing Farm in Rockport, navigates challenges from wildlife, including a herd of elk that damaged her crops. Her farming aspirations materialized in 2019 when she took over a long-term lease from former employer Anne Schwartz, who had cultivated the land for decades. Bragg's secure lease and ongoing mentorship from Schwartz allow her to thrive in a supportive farming community. As a regional land transfer specialist for American Farmland Trust, she recognizes the hurdles new farmers face in securing land in Skagit Valley's competitive market. Sarah Stoner, coordinator of the Skagit Farmland Legacy Program, highlights the urgent need for tailored support for smaller farmers in the region.

The rising interest in rural land from non-farm buyers exacerbates the challenges for local agriculture, particularly following the pandemic's impact on housing preferences. Bragg and her fellow advocates strive to create alternative opportunities for new farmers to access land. The situation underscores the critical importance of preserving farmland in the face of mounting development pressures.