Conservation Easements
What is a conservation easement?
A conservation easement is a legal agreement between a landowner and the Land Trust that permanently limits land uses on a property in order to protect the land’s conservation values. These values may include open space, shoreline, wildlife habitat, forest, or farmland.
Landowners who wish to conserve their property find conservation easements appealing for several reasons:
- Land is protected forever, regardless of who owns it.
- Landowners continue to own the land – they can sell, lease, bequeath or donate the land with a conservation easement on it.
- Conservation easements are flexible and the Land Trust works with landowners to make sure an easement is tailored to their needs and goals. Conservation easements may apply to an entire property, or a portion of it.
- Income, estate, property and/or gift taxes may be reduced or eliminated.
Conservation Easement Donations
Most often, conservation easements are donated to the Land Trust. Donations may offer great income and property tax benefits to the landowner. If the donation benefits the public by permanently protecting important conservation resources and meets other federal tax code requirements, it can qualify as a tax-deductible charitable donation. Contact your lawyer or financial advisor for professional advice.
Conservation Easement Sales
The Land Trust has limited funding available to purchase conservation easements on properties with exceptional conservation qualities that offer the greatest public benefit and are eligible for funding. When the Land Trust chooses to purchase a conservation easement, it raises funds from grants and private donors.
Additional Information
Visit our Conservation Easement Questions & Answers page to learn more about conservation easements and the Land Trust’s roles and responsibilities.
