Agricultural leases to roughly 1,300 acres at Manassas National Battlefield are being given in a bid to maintain the historic landscapes, such as at the Brawner farm/NPS archives

As part of its mission, the National Park Service at Manassas National Battlefield Park in Virginia strives to maintain the historic look of some of its landscapes. Since many of those acres were farmed when the Civil War arrived at Manassas, the Park Service is offering for lease 13 parcels for agricultural use.

The application process opened Monday and will continue through February 15. The park maintains more than 1,300 acres of agricultural land to preserve historic agricultural landscapes and viewsheds. In an effort to preserve the agricultural nature of the historic landscape, the park manages these lands through a leasing program for this historic property with local agricultural operators.  

Agricultural leases will be awarded for a 10-year period beginning in April. Applicants may apply to lease multiple properties or portions of properties. Those interested in applying should contact Bryan Gorsira at 703-754-1861 ext. 1109 or [email protected] for forms, property maps, and additional information.

Applicants will be evaluated on experience in agricultural operations and their ability to achieve park conservation goals. Preference will be given to applicants who can demonstrate knowledge and experience in sustainable agriculture and conservation practices. In a continuing effort to protect the Chesapeake Bay and local watersheds, applicants will work closely with National Park Service staff to ensure best conservation management practices.

Manassas National Battlefield Park currently manages agricultural land through short-term permits. The transition to historic leases will allow lessees to maintain agricultural properties for longer periods of time. This will allow farmers and the park to collaborate more closely to achieve environmental stewardship goals, and provide farmers with more financial stability.