Methods Of Protecting Land

The Lakes Region Conservation Trust (LRCT) works with landowners and local volunteers to protect land with significant preservation value. The LRCT utilizes a variety of protection methods to achieve its conservation goals. Landowners are encouraged to contact the LRCT to discuss the potential for initiating a land protection project. Prior to acceptance, all projects are reviewed by staff and evaluated by our Lands Committee to ensure compliance with organizational goals.


Donations

Land donations may be made in a variety of ways. In donating land to the LRCT, the donor relinquishes full title and ownership of the land at the time of the gift. A donor may, however, choose to retain rights of residency for him/herself or for other designated persons during the donor's lifetime. Similarly, lands may be bequeathed to the LRCT, removing the property from the donor's estate at the time of death. Land donors may realize significant tax advantages in return for their generosity to the LRCT's land conservation effort.


Conservation Easements


While the Trust generally prefers to protect land through fee simple conservation ownership, in some cases a conservation easement is the preferred method of protection. A conservation easement is a set of written specifications governing the future use of a piece of property. Certain uses, such as subdivision or development, may be restricted when an easement is placed on the property. In donating an easement, the landowner (and any subsequent owners) retain title and use of the land, with the exception of specific rights relinquished under the easement. Conservation easement restrictions are permanent and legally binding for the present owner and all future owners. Provided certain conservation requirements are met, a gift of an easement to the LRCT may result in tax advantages for the donor.


Sales


In special circumstances, the LRCT will consider the purchase of land or development rights. Before agreeing to purchase property, the LRCT would have to clearly establish both the significant conservation value of the property, and the potential for local volunteer fund raising. Sale of land to the LRCT at a price less than the appraised value may have certain tax advantages for a landowner.




Your tax advisor or attorney can best determine the merits and consequences of options available to you. The Lakes Region Conservation Trust advises you consult such a professional prior to making decisions regarding your land.