Your Land. Your Legacy.

You have spent years caring for this place. We can help you protect it - forever.

Explore Your Options Start a Conversation

"Conservation must not fail, for too much of our native landscape has already been thoughtlessly destroyed. Far too much has already been taken by us from those who are to follow. It is our sacred duty to preserve what is left for unborn generations."

— Jens Jensen, founder of The Clearing

Why Landowners Protect Their Land

Some people protect their land because they have walked it since childhood and cannot imagine it becoming something else. Others do it to honor parents or grandparents who cleared the fields, built the barn, planted the orchard.

Some are thinking about taxes and estate planning. Some just want to know - really know - that the woods their kids played in will still be woods when their grandchildren are grown.

There is no single reason. But the instinct is the same: this place matters, and I want it to stay this way.

Since 1986, the Door County Land Trust has helped landowners do exactly that. Not by taking over. Not by telling you what to do. But by offering tools, expertise, and a promise: if you choose to protect your land, we will honor that choice - permanently.

You stay in control. You keep ownership. And your land stays protected, no matter who owns it next.

Since 1986

acres protected forever
landowner partners
years keeping our promise

Three Ways to Protect Your Land

Every property is different. Every landowner situation is different. Here are the tools we work with.

Conservation Easements

A legal agreement that limits future development while you retain ownership. You can still live on the land, farm it, sell it, or pass it to heirs.

Good for: Landowners who want to stay on their land while ensuring it is never subdivided or overdeveloped.

Land Donations

Donate ecologically significant property to become a nature preserve - open to the public, protected forever. Potential tax deductions available.

Good for: Landowners without heirs, those with appreciated land, or those wanting their land to become a public treasure.

Bargain Sales

Sell your property for less than appraised value. Receive cash, avoid some capital gains, and qualify for a charitable deduction on the difference.

Good for: Landowners who need liquidity but want to ensure their land is protected, not developed.

Learn more about conservation easements →

What Happens When You Reach Out?

It starts with a conversation. No paperwork, no pressure. Just a chance to talk about your land, your goals, and what matters to you.

You contact us.

Phone, email, or inquiry form - whatever is comfortable. Tell us a little about your property and what is on your mind.

We talk.

One of our staff will ask questions and listen. We will learn about your land, your family situation, and what you are hoping to accomplish.

We visit (if you would like).

For landowners considering an easement or donation, a site visit helps us understand the property conservation values.

We explore options together.

Based on your goals, we will explain which tools might be a good fit - and which might not. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

You decide.

If you want to move forward, we guide you through the process step by step. If you need time, take it. There is no rush and no pressure.

This is your decision, your timeline, and your land. We are here to help - not to push.

Questions Landowners Ask

Will I lose control of my land?

No. With a conservation easement, you keep full ownership. You decide what restrictions make sense. You can still live on the land, farm it, sell it, or leave it to your heirs. We just ensure that certain protections - the ones you agreed to - stay in place forever.

Does the government get involved?

No. Conservation easements are private, voluntary agreements between you and the Door County Land Trust. No government agency is involved in the decision or the agreement.

What if my kids want to build a house someday?

Easements are flexible. If it is important to you, we can reserve a building envelope or homesite for future use. We will work with you to balance protection with your family future needs.

What does it cost me?

Nothing. The Land Trust covers the cost of drafting easements, ecological assessments, legal filings, and ongoing stewardship. You may have your own legal or tax advisor review documents, but our services are free.

Can I change my mind later?

Conservation easements are permanent by design - that is what makes them meaningful. Once recorded, they cannot be undone. That is why we take time upfront to make sure this is the right decision for you.

What if I am not sure yet?

That is fine. Most landowners take months or years to decide. You can reach out just to learn more - no commitment required. We are happy to answer questions whenever you are ready.