One way they do this is through a conservation easement. A conservation easement is a legal document that spells out what can and what cannot be done on a property. In most cases, a conservation easement will prohibit or limit development of the property. Each easement is unique and is written to reflect the wishes of the property owner and the character of the property. The holder of the easement has no ownership in the land just the responsibility to ensure that the easement is being followed.
Easements can provide tax benefits to the property owner.
These benefits can be a charitable deduction, a property tax reduction in Illinois, and a reduction in inheritance taxes. An important consideration for many owners is that the land remains in their ownership and can be sold or otherwise transferred in the normal ways. Private conservation groups as well as governmental agencies can help landowners develop plans to conserve land.