A Conservation Easement = a voluntary agreement between a landowner and a land trust to permanently protect the ‘conservation values’ of the land and limit development. Investors have an ownership interest in the property and are offered this choice.
The donation allows them to take advantage of tax benefits while retaining ownership and management of the land.
Each Conservation Easement is unique, they are tailored to specific management objectives for the land.
Conservation Value(s) are defined by 170(h)(4)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
The preservation of certain open space (including farmland and forest land) pursuant to a clearly delineated federal, state, or local governmental conservation policy that yields a significant public benefit.
The preservation of open space for the scenic enjoyment of the general public that yields a significant public benefit.
The protection of a significant, relatively-natural habitat of fish, wildlife, or plants, or similar ecosystem, (including but not limited to, habitat for rare, threatened, and/or endangered species).
The preservation of a historically important land area.
The preservation of land areas for outdoor recreation by, or the education of, the general public.
Various land cover types may yield a public benefit
high priority wildlife habitat defined by the state wildlife action plan – floodplain forest, marshland, etc.
