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A conservation easement is a legal agreement where a landowner voluntarily gives up certain rights to develop or build on their land, in exchange for the land being permanently protected in its natural state. Each easement is different and is tailored to the unique needs and interests of the landowner. To learn more about what a conservation easement might look like for you - contact us today!

Not necessarily - A common misconception about conservation easements is that they open up land for public use. This is false. If you are interested in conserving your land or would like to know more about the process, please contact us and we would be happy to discuss your needs.

There are different kinds of conservation easements and they are written with specific landowner needs in mind. Uses like hunting, fishing, forest management, and trail maintenance are generally permitted under conservation easements

Conservation easements do not take property off the tax rolls. However, there may be property tax benefits for the Maine landowner under the Farm and Open Space Tax program. The level of benefit varies depending upon the nature of the restrictions contained in the easement. Further, income tax benefits in the form of a charitable deduction may also be available to landowners if they are eligible under IRS guidelines. There may be other landowner benefits which can be discussed with a Maine A.T. Land Trust representative.

Conservation easements only restrict the types of activities that can occur on a property, not ownership of the property. Examples of activities that are usually limited under conservation easements are the building of new roads and structures, mining, and heavy logging. To ensure that the terms of the conservation easement are complied with, the easement holder monitors the property on an annual basis to make sure that none of the restricted activities are occurring. This is a requirement under Maine law.