Conservation Easements
Conservation easements are generally used to conserve a property in its natural state while allowing land owners to retain many rights, including ownership of the property.
How does it work?
Perpetual Agreement
A willing landowner voluntarily enters into a binding agreement with Hill Country Conservancy (or another qualified organization) to preserve a property’s conservation values.
Financial Incentive
The landowner may receive estate and/or income tax benefits for limiting the development potential of their land, thus rewarding ongoing stewardship efforts.
Monitoring & Enforcement
Hill Country Conservancy regularly monitors and reviews the conservation easement with the landowner to ensure that the wishes of HCC & the original grantor are upheld.
Long-Term Protection
Development limitations remain in place even if ownership of the property changes.
Cost-Effective
The upfront cost of a conservation easement may be a fraction of the full value of the land, while keeping the land in private ownership.