The 20.8‑acre easement, arranged by the Peconic Land Trust, locks the bulk of Rossellini’s Brookhaven farmstead out of the development market, preserving its agricultural function.
The original parcel measured 27 acres when Rossellini founded Mama Farm in 2013; the easement covers most of that area, leaving a modest strip for future expansion.
Farm operations are steered by Farmer Patty Gentry, who cultivates heirloom crops without pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers, and raises heritage‑breed chickens, turkeys, sheep, goats, quail and ducks that are never slaughtered.
The community‑supported agriculture program distributes eggs, honey, and vegetable shares directly to members, tying local residents to the land’s bounty.
Visitors can also attend workshops and children’s activities that explore biodiversity and sustainable farming, turning the farm into a living classroom.
Long Island’s relentless development pressure makes this legal protection a rare safeguard, ensuring that conservation and community life can coexist on the island’s open spaces.