Legal Definitions - arable land

Arable land refers to land that is suitable for cultivation, meaning it can be plowed or tilled to grow crops.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of arable land:

• A large agricultural company is scouting locations for a new organic vegetable farm. They identify a vast, undeveloped tract of land in a river valley known for its rich, loamy soil and consistent rainfall. After conducting soil tests and topographical surveys, they confirm that the land is relatively flat, well-drained, and possesses excellent nutrient content, making it ideal for planting a variety of vegetables.

  Explanation: This land is considered arable land because its natural characteristics—fertile soil, good drainage, and flat terrain—make it highly suitable for plowing, tilling, and growing crops.

• A small, family-owned vineyard in a mountainous region is looking to expand its grape production. They own a steep hillside plot adjacent to their existing vines, but the soil is rocky, shallow, and prone to erosion. Despite their desire to grow more grapes, agricultural experts advise them that this particular hillside is not suitable for extensive cultivation without significant, costly modifications, and even then, yields would likely be poor.

  Explanation: This hillside is not considered arable land because its rocky, shallow soil and steep incline make it unsuitable for effective cultivation and crop growth, demonstrating the characteristics that differentiate it from land that can be farmed.

• A national park service is evaluating a parcel of land for potential acquisition to expand a wildlife preserve. The land is currently a mix of forest and open fields. During their assessment, they note that the open fields have historically been used for farming by previous owners, and soil samples confirm deep, fertile topsoil. While the park service intends to let the fields revert to natural habitat, they recognize its inherent capacity for agriculture.

  Explanation: The open fields within the parcel are identified as arable land because their history of cultivation and current soil quality demonstrate their inherent suitability for growing crops, even if they are not currently being farmed and will be used for conservation.