Conservation Easements
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Collapse ▲A Conservation Easement is a voluntary legal agreement that allows landowners to permanently limit the type and amount of development on their property to protect its natural resources. Here are some key benefits for landowners who choose this option:
Conservation and Land Management
- Land Remains in Private Ownership: You retain ownership and control of your land, meaning you can continue to live on it, manage it, and even sell or pass it on to heirs.
- Protection of Conservation Values: Protects the natural features of your land, such as wildlife habitat, water quality, scenic views, and historical significance.
- Flexibility: Easements can be tailored to your specific property and needs, allowing for continued activities like farming, forestry, hunting, and recreation.
- Permanent Protection: Conservation easements are typically permanent, meaning the restrictions on development will remain in place even if the land is sold or inherited, ensuring long-term conservation.
Financial Advantages
- Income Tax Deductions: Donating a permanent conservation easement can qualify as a charitable donation, potentially leading to significant federal and state income tax deductions.
- Estate Tax Benefits: A conservation easement can lower the taxable value of your estate by reducing the land’s development potential. This can make it easier to pass land to the next generation without the burden of high estate taxes.
- Property Tax Reduction: By restricting development, a conservation easement can lead to a reassessment of the property’s value, potentially resulting in lower property taxes.
- Potential for Cash Benefits: In some instances, especially with certain land trust or government programs, landowners may receive direct payments for granting a conservation easement.
Personal and Legacy Benefits
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your land will be protected according to your wishes can provide significant peace of mind.
- Leaving a Conservation Legacy: Allows you to ensure that the natural beauty and ecological value of your land are preserved for future generations.
- Supporting Community Benefits: Conserved land can contribute to broader public benefits such as clean water, healthy ecosystems, and open spaces.
It’s important to note that the specific benefits can vary depending on the terms of the easement, the location of the property, and applicable federal and state laws. The Lee County Conservation Easement Policy was adopted in March of 2025. This policy outlines procedures for landowners seeking financial support from Lee County Government in establishing a conservation easement on their property. To learn more about conservation easements or any of the aforementioned farmland protection and preservation programs, please contact N.C. Cooperative Extension- Lee County Center at 919-775-5624.