Conservation easements are legal agreements that establish perpetual restrictions on the use and development of the land while keeping it in private ownership. Whether it is incorporated into a broader land use plan or stands alone, the conservation easement is a powerful tool to preserve natural resources, family lands, farmland and other environmental assets. Easements entrust the Conservancy with the responsibility of monitoring and enforcing the restrictions. The Conservancy is a trusted steward with the skills, resources and commitment to safeguard a landowner's intentions. Easements go far beyond legal concerns.
Conservation easements are much more than a legal way to protect the land.
In exchange for voluntarily surrendering certain rights to develop or alter property, landowners may receive favorable income, gift or estate tax benefits. The long-term responsibility for oversight and protection is shared with a respected institution whose proven commitment to conservation is consistent with the ideals of the landowner. Working together accomplishes even more. Because natural and scenic resources often cross property lines and municipal borders, the Land Stewardship Program encourages neighbors to plan and work as partners and with municipal officials. Conservancy specialists in historic preservation, municipal planning and government regulation provide the expertise necessary to enable community-wide conservation.