The tenure factor in rural land management: A new England perspective

Abstract

Land-ownership is an important yet neglected factor in rural land management. Data from a recent survey of land-ownership is examined using New England as a case study. The data highlights a number of interesting ownership characteristics. In many states, farmers do not own the major part of the farmland resource and the concentration of land-ownership is notable; much of the total land area is held by males, most of whom are over 50 years of age; most land is acquired through the land market and the extent of absentee land-ownership is increasing. Such characteristics are important concerns for the future of the land resource. Existing policies that affect land-ownership are briefly described, but there is a need for a more comprehensive land-ownership strategy in all states of New England.