Bluegrass Conservancy

When asked about the importance of preserving Kentucky's farmland, Nicholas Lotz of BGC-protected Briarbrooke talked about his own backyard, remarking how, "Bourbon County is a very special place in Kentucky and in the world. Its soils, landscape, unique woodland pastures, and productivity have long made it a highly prized farming area."

He should know. His family, on his mother's side has been farming in Bourbon County, near Ruddles Mill, since the 1790's. His parents had much in common, his father's family having been farmers in Ohio since the early 1800's.

As is tradition and will not come as a surprise to any family whose livelihood has been rooted in the ground for multiple generations, farming skills are passed from the old to the young simply by involvement and the need for work to be done. Children are often given small chores at an early age - their responsibilities growing as they do. Learning the routines and tools of the family business are paramount to a farm's success.

Nick's farming education was certainly built upon on the ground training. He shares how his grandfather, "put me on a Farmall 100 when I was nine years old. He drove one pass around the front field. Then rode with me as I drove one pass around. After that he stepped off the tractor and said, 'I have hay to bale. Mow the field and don't break anything. And don't drive into the road.' That was my first big boy lesson. Later, I studied farm management and animal science at the University of Kentucky."

Prior to his purchase, the land that comprises Briarbrooke was entirely agricultural with tobacco, crops, and cattle production. Starting in 1983, Nick, his former wife, Rose, and his now-retired veterinarian, Stuart Burns put most of the fields into permanent pasture, with 30 acres in alfalfa hay production. Once the pastures were established, they started adding Thoroughbred horses, both his own and serveral borders. Today, the farm has grown from 135 acres of undeveloped farmland to 305 acres and is home to approximately 80 horses and 40 cows.

Of course the equine industry has been active in Bourbon County for over 200 years. In the recent past, it has dramatically impacted our local economy by providing many jobs, raising land prices, and supporting local businesses. Nick anticipates a more modest role for the Thoroughbred industry as horse numbers shrink back a bit; but he is excited to see the resurgence of many other small farms supporting non-racing horses, and with that support, bringing new people, ideas, and energy to the Bluegrass.

When considering the donation of a conservation easement on his land, Nick's main impetus was to preserve the land for future generations. His adult grandchildren have their own professional aspirations, which do not include farming; and, without immediate heirs, he felt it to be imperative that he protect the land. In addition to being able to define his land as forever farmland, Nick points to the now permanent enhanced federal tax incentives as contributing to the appeal he found in making his decision.

Nick agrees with his fellow Bourbon County easement donor, Arthur Hancock, believing there is no downside for farming operations to donate conservation easements. As Nick puts it, "So, lead by example and preserve the land."

For many, there is no better way than conserving their family farm to ensure that the land which is so important to our shared community character, our history, and well-being, is treasured forever.

What is it about farms that you love? Is it the sweet smell of hay, or patting the nose of a foal? Perhaps it's fresh, local food, or taking a bike ride or drive through the winding tree lined roads. For many, these experiences are why farms are places of wonder and joy.

For farmland conservation to last over generations, we need more people to care. One of our biggest challenges is that while communities often rely on fresh water, local food, wildlife habitat, breathtaking views, and a vibrant agricultural economy, the importance of farmland conservation as part of that experience isn't always appreciated until it's gone.

With your help, we are working to change that. Research shows that for people to develop a love for the land it often has to start when they are young.

Now, thanks to growing community support, Bluegrass Conservancy is able to offer more free, family-friendly community programs, allowing people to connect first-hand with Bluegrass farms, and bring the wonder of nature and farming to people from all walks of life. By providing these fun, regular experiences across the seasons, we are collectively ensuring that farmland conservation will stand the test of time.

As a community-supported nonprofit, Bluegrass Conservancy helps local families in the Bluegrass region preserve the lands they love. Using voluntary conservation tools and programs, we help them conserve the water quality and agricultural viability, natural habitat, cultural heritage and scenic vistas of their family lands for future generations.