Conservation Fund buys Jimmy Carter’s 2,458-acre Georgia farm
- The Conservation Fund purchased Jimmy Carter’s 2,458-acre Georgia farm for $8.5 million.
- Public access for activities like hunting and fishing is expected by mid-2027.
- The property was restored to its native longleaf-pine condition at Carter's request.
- This site is separate from the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park in Plains.
The Conservation Fund has acquired the 2,458-acre family farm of former US President Jimmy Carter located near Plains, Georgia, for $8.5 million. This purchase was reported by The Washington Post and confirmed by outlets including The Hill, Newser, and Grazia.
The conservation group purchased the property to preserve the land.
Wildlife area to expand to 7,000 acres
The newly purchased acreage will be integrated into the existing Lanahassee Creek Wildlife Management Area. This expansion will increase the total size of the protected area to nearly 7,000 acres once the land is handed over to state ownership in 2028.
The Conservation Fund previously assisted Georgia in establishing the Lanahassee Creek Wildlife Management Area in 2019. The site provides essential habitat for the threatened gopher tortoise, rare freshwater mussels, and various bird species.
Public access planned for outdoor activities by 2027
The Conservation Fund plans to maintain the 2,458-acre property while ensuring it remains accessible to visitors. The site will eventually allow for hunting, fishing, and bird-watching activities.
An interim lease is currently being developed to facilitate this transition, with the goal of opening the additional acreage to the public by mid-2027, WABE reported. This project represents an investment of $8.5 million to secure the land for future generations.
Carter family history and personal connection to the land
The Carter family secured the property as one of their early acquisitions after relocating to Plains in the early 1900s. James Earl Carter Sr grew peanuts, corn, and sugarcane on the farm, where a young Jimmy Carter explored the woods and assisted in the fields.
The farm was a long-term outdoor retreat for Rosalynn Carter and their children. Even after assuming the presidency, Jimmy Carter frequently returned to the land to walk, hunt turkeys, and fish in its pond.
Amy Carter stated that her father continued to visit the farm until he was no longer able to walk, noting that the Secret Service often stayed out of sight during these trips. Jimmy Carter, who died in 2024 at age 100, made one final fishing trip to the pond near the end of his life, while Rosalynn Carter died in 2023.
Restoration of longleaf-pine forest and native habitat
The property features extensive longleaf-pine forests, historic farmland, and open fields, along with creeks that feed the Flint River watershed. At the request of Jimmy Carter, the land was restored to its native condition.
The family preserved a stand of mature longleaf pines on the site. Many areas were also replanted with young longleaf pines.
Grandson Jason Carter reflects on the property as a home
Jason Carter, the grandson of the former president, described the property as a cherished family home rather than just a farm.
He expressed gratitude that the land, acquired for $8.5 million, will be preserved for future generations.
Distinction from Jimmy Carter National Historical Park
The newly acquired land is distinct from the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park.
Both the historical park and the newly purchased land are located in the Plains region.
Carter’s legacy of environmental protection
His efforts included support for wilderness protection and the installation of solar panels on the White House roof.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Jimmy Carter's family farm in Georgia has been acquired for conservation: Nearly 2,500 acres of fields and forest are set to join a wildlife area expanding to about 7,000 acres, with public access pla (timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
- Jimmy Carter's family farm to be preserved and opened to the public (ksat.com)
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