Does the conservation easement have to cover all of the landowner’s property?

No, some conservation easements cover only a portion of the landowner’s property. Again, it depends on the landowner’s wishes and the importance of the property. For example, if someone owns 100 acres, of which 80 acres are wetlands, forest or wildlife habitat, the owner may decide to restrict development only on these 80 acres. The remaining 20 acres would not be covered or affected by the conservation easement.