Organic Farmer Reaches Settlement To Stay On Land

POTOMAC, Md. (AP) -- An organic farmer in Potomac who operates on school system-owned land says he'll be allowed to remain on the farm until August as part of a preliminary settlement.

Nick Maravell had sought an injunction to remain on the land. The county wants to use the property for soccer fields. Maravell's lease expired in March.

A court hearing was scheduled for Thursday, but Maravell tells The Washington Post that he and county officials have reached a preliminary settlement that allows him to stay at the farm until Aug. 15 in exchange for dropping the court case. He says the county could extend his stay beyond that.

Maravell's lawyer says his client has reached a separate settlement with the school board.

Maravell has tended the farm for 31 years.

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