Summit County's unique open space values are best protected if land owners are motivated to pursue economically attractive alternatives to development.
Conservation easements provide land owners with just such option.
Easements can be purchased or donated, which usually entitles the land owner to a sizeable savings on income, property, and estate taxes. Conservation easements are an extremely effective conservation tool. They've already been used to protect several ranches in the Lower Blue River valley. The CDLT will work closely with interested land owners to craft easements that meet their specific needs. Mutually beneficial arrangements are always sought.