ABOUT US
Alaska Farmland Trust Corporation (AFTC) is dedicated to preserving Alaska’s farmlands for future generations through land conservation. AFTC is committed to educating residents on the importance of local agriculture and farmland preservation, and maintaining Alaska’s agricultural infrastructure.
Farmland Trusts and Alaska: The Need
Only 4% of Alaska’s farmland is accessible and viable for farming, and less than 10% of food consumed in Alaska is locally grown. Because of this, there is an immediate need to preserve farmland and educate local populations on the agricultural opportunities available. As oil prices, food prices, and transportation costs continue to increase, so will the cost to import global foods to Alaska. Alaska Farmland Trust was established to be an effective and consistent voice for agriculture in Alaska and to address the major challenges and opportunities facing our agricultural future.
How Conservation Works
1. Only 5% of food consumed in Alaska is grown in Alaska. The remainder is flown or barged into the state making our food system insecure.
2. The Alaska Farmland Trust is helping to change that. We have a rich history of
growing food in our state, from early homesteaders to millennial farmers.
3. Alaska continues to attract the most intrepid producers. Alaskan soils are built from the rich river flood plains, glacial silt, and volcanic ash.
4. These soils are perfect for growing over 36 types of fruits and vegetables in the state.
5. Many farms are being lost due to development at an alarming rate.
6. Using a tool called conservation easements, we are able to permanently protect these at-risk soils.
7. Once protected, we help link agricultural landowners with farm seekers through our FarmLink program.
8. Proceeds from every purchase or donation are put to work, protecting properties and building the agriculture
industry of Alaska.
9. From our farms to your plate, you are helping sustain and build farms in Alaska. Thank you for helping us to protect Alaska’s
food future!
Our Goals & Strategies
Alaska Farmland Trust is the organization in Alaska for farmland protection. Our strategies to protect farmland are many-fold:
Working with landowners to take private action to protect their farmland
Aiding farmers in farm succession planning
Assisting current landowners with developing relationships with future landowners and users
Building public awareness and community partnerships in support of agricultural land protection
The Alaska Farmland Trust envisions a future with thriving local food markets that will give Alaskans access to fresh, healthy food, and keep our farmers farming.