Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has launched a statewide tour to highlight the importance of agriculture as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. Kicking off the effort this week in Greene, Williamson, and Tipton counties, Lee is set to visit all 95 counties before July 1, 2026.
As part of the tour, Lee is promoting the newly signed Farmland Preservation Act, officially enacted in May. The law establishes a grant program to support farmers who commit to permanent easement contracts — legal agreements that ensure the land remains dedicated to farming and cannot be developed.
“This week marks the beginning of a special time for our country and state,” Lee said during a ceremonial bill signing. “One of Tennessee’s greatest contributions to America’s success is the strength of our agricultural industry.” He praised the act as a commitment to preserving family farms for future generations.
Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher echoed the governor’s sentiment, calling agriculture “the foundation upon which our nation was built.” Hatcher added that celebrating America’s semiquincentennial by visiting Tennessee farms is both symbolic and necessary for raising awareness about land preservation.
To commemorate the events, the state commissioned Knoxville artist Justin Helton to design a special post celebrating Tennessee’s agricultural heritage.
The Farmland Preservation Act reflects a broader effort to protect rural communities and ensure food security by preventing farmland from being overtaken by urban development. Lee’s statewide tour and focus on agriculture align closely with conservative values of land stewardship, family, and self-reliance — principles deeply rooted in America’s founding and future.
