Conservation Easements
Protect your land. Keep your land.
What Is a Conservation Easement?
A voluntary, permanent agreement between a landowner and a land trust.
A conservation easement limits future development on your land to preserve its natural, scenic, or agricultural values — while allowing you to retain ownership, live on the land, and pass it down to heirs.
You decide what uses continue. DCLT is responsible for upholding the terms of the agreement in perpetuity.
Why Landowners Choose a Conservation Easement
"I did not want to sell it. I wanted to pass it down — intact — to my kids."
— Local landowner
Common Questions
Can I still live on or use my land?
Yes. Each easement is custom-written to reflect your goals.
Can I still hunt on the land?
Yes. Hunting rights remain with you, unless otherwise stated.
Is the land open to the public?
No. Conservation easements do not create public access.
Will this affect my taxes?
Possibly. The donation may qualify for a federal income tax deduction, and your property taxes may change. Please consult your tax advisor.
The Process
Initial Conversation
Talk with DCLT about your land and goals.
Site Visit & Evaluation
Our team visits to understand the land's conservation values.
Draft Agreement
Tailored to your wishes and the land's features.
Appraisal & Tax Review
Optional — you may choose to appraise the value for tax purposes.
Finalize and Record
The easement is recorded with the county and lasts forever.
Stewardship Begins
DCLT monitors the land annually to uphold the agreement.
What Is Protected?
Every easement is different, but most protect:
- Forests, wetlands, or open space
- Shorelines or wildlife habitat
- Farmland or scenic vistas
- Rare plant or animal communities
Some easements include building envelopes — defined zones where limited development may be allowed.
Myths & Facts
Myth: I lose control of my land
Fact: You keep ownership and control use within the agreed terms.
Myth: The public will have access
Fact: No. Public access is not granted unless you choose to allow it.
Myth: CEs are one-size-fits-all
Fact: Each conservation easement is custom written for the land and the landowner.
Myth: My family cannot build here
Fact: Some limited development may be allowed in defined building envelopes.
Myth: This will hurt resale value
Fact: Many buyers value permanently protected land.
Is a Conservation Easement Right for You?
We are here to help you explore your options — not pressure you. Whether you are planning ahead for the next generation or looking for a way to ensure your land stays protected, we can walk through what is possible.
