Landowners

Sometimes landowners donate their land to us outright. More frequently, landowners sign an easement agreement with us that allows them continued ownership but limits future development. They can still use it in other ways, like farming or hunting. We agree to monitor the land annually to be sure their wishes are followed.

1. They love their land, their woods, their farm land…and they want to know that after they are gone, their land will continue to be used as it has been. They want to leave a legacy for themselves and their family.
   
   
2. They want to protect the environment by making sure land along rivers and streams, as well as other land with high environmental value, is not developed.
   
   
3. Property owners choosing to make a land trust the beneficiary of their land through planned giving.
   
   
4. They may be able to save on income taxes or estate taxes. If the land is used for agriculture, there are potentially even greater tax benefits.

In 2015 Congress enacted one of the most powerful conservation measures in decades: the enhanced federal tax incentive for conservation easement donations. If a landowner places a conservation easement on his or her land, and limits future development, the value of the land is reduced. An appraiser will determine this difference in value, which is the value of the conservation easement donation. Under the 2015 law, a landowner can deduct the value of that easement donation over a 16 year period from his or her federal income taxes.

• Preserve stream-side corridors and other buffer zones and natural areas for habitat protection, water quality improvement, scenic views, wilderness and rural character.
  
  
• Protect valuable wildlife habitats, focusing on the most critical needs.
  
  
• Conserve agricultural and green areas, including urban, to promote water quality, wildlife habitat, recreation, and natural and cultural heritage.
  
  
• Build a coalition of partners including landowners, community groups, municipal officials as well as local, state & federal agencies to achieve the mission and vision.
  
  
• Promote stewardship and conservation of natural areas through education and research opportunities.
  
  
• Support responsible eco-tourism, recreational opportunities, and other compatible land uses.
  
  
• Maintain a strong organization & instill public confidence with a committed board, strategic plan, and policies, standards & procedures.