Furthermore, large forested areas are essential for many game and non-game wildlife species. Current Use promotes the conservation of open land, which helps stabilize property taxes by stabilizing the Grand List. Many studies have shown that the more development in a town, the more services are needed and the higher the tax rate. Increased development does not lower tax rates. For every dollar of property tax collected for residential development, towns provide more than a dollar in services.
Undeveloped land requires almost nothing in services.
Current Use requires landowners to manage their forestland for its long-term health and productivity. Management plans do not permit short-sighted liquidation and cutting beyond the management plan incurs a penalty. Current Use helps keep land open for public recreational uses like hiking, hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing. Current Use supports the tourism industry by helping to maintain Vermont's especially beautiful landscape. Current Use is fair.