CANTON -- Those who own or rent land that is used for agricultural purposes may qualify for an agricultural assessment that could alleviate some of the tax burden on the land.

The nature of agriculture generally requires large expanses of land. As a result, property taxes for farmers can be a heavy burden. In an attempt to alleviate some of that burden, New York State developed the agricultural assessment program.

The program generates a report based on the productivity of the soil. The tax assessor uses the information to determine if the land qualifies for a reduction in property taxes.

Only land used for agriculture qualifies for the assessment. A reduction in taxes is not guaranteed.

Those who are interested are encouraged to speak with their assessor to determine if their land qualifies for an assessment.

Applications for the program are due to the local assessor by March 1.

It may take the Soil and Water Conservation District some time to do the necessary paperwork, so they ask people to start the process early. There is a fee of $30 for each parcel and a late fee of $10 for each parcel submitted after Feb. 15.

More info: St. Lawrence County Soil and Water Conservation District, 386-3582 or visit the office at 1942 Old DeKalb Rd, Canton, NY 13617.