Conservation easements

Gyrfalcon22

Gyrfalcon22

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Tomorrow I am having a meeting with some folks about the possibility of putting some of our river property into a conservation easement, or something along those lines. I want to make sure it is taken care in a way that represents our wishes once out of our hands. Or does it really become possibly about regretting something the fine print that could come up. I'd consult a lawyer before signing off, of course. I have been researching all sorts of different things from timed set decades-long only agreements that are not to eternity, or other arrangements for the land that seems permanent.

Are there any traps or tricks in what can happen living next to land after we sign off on for these easements? I'd really hate for it to turn into a shooting range to having strangers walking through the backyard while I am alive because of a mistake in my understanding as to what I have gotten myself into.

Any thoughts appreciated !
 
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We put some of our land into a conservation easement to preserve it from ever being developed. The easement allows for us to continue to use it for recreational purposes, and/or traditional uses, but no dwellings can be built. We still own the land. It is still private property. The easement doesn't change the right of the public to trespass. As RCF implies, there were/are some tax advantages. The timeline for ours is forever. I think it is a great thing to do.
 
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Seems like a good thing to do, especially with review from a trusted real estate/land use attorney (or 2). Maybe think about views (trees blocking something you need to see?), invasive species management, and drainage.
 
We did that. It was a piece of dry scrubland that we couldn't sell with ridiculous California property taxes

Nature Conservancy will send you a contract. It will be long but won't take a lawyer to understand it. Since they're getting something for nothing, they will be sure to address any potential concerns you may have in the contract.
 
Gyrfalcon22 said:
Tomorrow I am having a meeting with some folks about the possibility of putting some of our river property into a conservation easement, or something along those lines. I want to make sure it is taken care in a way that represents our wishes once out of our hands. Or does it really become possibly about regretting something the fine print that could come up. I'd consult a lawyer before signing off, of course. I have been researching all sorts of different things from timed set decades-long only agreements that are not to eternity, or other arrangements for the land that seems permanent.

Are there any traps or tricks in what can happen living next to land after we sign off on for these easements? I'd really hate for it to turn into a shooting range to having strangers walking through the backyard while I am alive because of a mistake in my understanding as to what I have gotten myself into.

Any thoughts appreciated !
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Proceed with caution. I generally advise people manage their land on their own to best reflect their values. You don't need any paper g from any agency in exchange for a tax break to do so. That said it fits for some folks. Read the fine print. At the end of the day you are giving an entity of government or other entity a say on what you do with YOUR land.
 
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