This bill allows for agriculture-related events to be held on preserved farmland in New Jersey, provided that the landowner first obtains a permit from the county agriculture development board. The bill defines "agriculture-related event" as a festival or similar activity that occurs once or a few times a year, showcasing agricultural or horticultural practices or products from the farm. Examples of such events include hay bale races, flower shows, and tractor pulls. The county agriculture development board can issue a maximum of four permits per year for each farm, and each event must only temporarily disturb the land's agricultural use without interfering with its ongoing agricultural purposes.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that holding an approved agriculture-related event will not violate any agricultural deed restrictions related to farmland preservation, as long as the event adheres to the permit's terms and conditions. This legislation aims to promote agricultural tourism while ensuring that preserved farmland remains dedicated to its primary agricultural functions. The act will take effect 180 days after its enactment, although preparatory administrative actions can be taken by the county agriculture development board beforehand.