What exactly is a conservation easement?
A conservation easement is a permanent and voluntary legal agreement that limits the property owner’s use of their land for the purposes of protecting it. There could be tax benefits for easements, but usually, the primary reason owners do so is because they want to conserve land that is beloved to them. The owner of the land retains many owner rights, which includes using the land or selling it as well as passing it along to heirs – which makes conservation easements worthwhile when estate planning. By protecting the land they love, owners who have easements also help their communities because conservation easements maintain open space that protects scenic views and wildlifehabitat as well as offering opportunities for environmental education and historic preservation.
EASEMENT CHECKLIST
Achieving the distinction of accreditation from the Land Trust Alliance Accreditation Commission highlights our dedication and commitment to operate at the highest standards for land trusts. Our efforts will help make the Mid-Hudson Valley an even better place for future generations to live, work, and play.