June 21st, 2021
By Lori Sallet
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 19, 2021
CONTACT: Lori Sallet, American Farmland Trust
(410) 708-5940, lsallet@farmland.org
Sussman Donates Turner Farm to American Farmland Trust
Property to Continue as Working Farmland
Washington, D.C. – The American Farmland Trust announced today that philanthropist and financier Donald Sussman has donated the Turner Farm to the Trust. The 153-acre property, home to one of North Haven Island Maine’s largest farms in the 1800’s, has been being restored since 2008 under Sussman’s ownership.
“We’re overwhelmed by Donald Sussman’s generosity,” said John Piotti, American Farmland Trust president and CEO. “Turner Farm is not only an incredibly beautiful place, but it is a vibrant farm that serves the local community and models some important agricultural practices. We are honored to take on responsibility for the future of this unique coastal farm.”
In addition to its farming operation, Turner Farm is home to a significant archaeological dig that occurred in the 1970s, with artifacts dating back to different periods as far back as 5000 years ago. “Native people have been living on this piece of land long before European settlers arrived in Maine,” Piotti said. “The historical significance of this land is foremost in our minds as we plan for its future.”
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American Farmland Trust is the only national conservation organization dedicated to protecting farmland, promoting environmentally sound farming practices and keeping farmers on the land. Since 1980, AFT’s innovative work has helped to permanently protect more than 6.8 million acres of farmland and ranchland and led the way for the adoption of conservation practices on millions more. No Farms, No Food. Learn more at www.farmland.org.