Conservation Easements
The district has a long and successful history working with private landowners to solve natural resource conservation problems. Landowners have requested that the district consider conservation easements as a conservation tool to protect land from development over the long term. After working with Crown Hill Farm for several years - the district became the first SWCD in Oregon to hold a conservation easement in 2002. Several additional easements have been established since then that have protected over 1000 acres from development.
What is a Conservation Easement?
A conservation easement is a legal agreement between a landowner and a qualified conservation organization or government agency that permanently limits a properties uses in order to protect its conservation values.
Why Use a Conservation Easement?
This conservation tool leaves land ownership in the hands of the landowner who may live on it, sell it, or pass it on to heirs. Establishing an easement may significantly lower estate taxes and provide the landowner with income tax benefits. The easement document can be prepared to meet particular needs that are important to the landowner. Once established, an outside entity such as a land trust or conservation district ensures that the restrictions are followed.
Easement Program Purpose
- Assist landowners to maintain the land base for farming, timber, and other natural resource land uses.
- Protect land against encroachment by urban development.
- Maintain historical, cultural, environmental, and scenic values within the community.
To Qualify
1. The land must be located within Yamhill County.
2. The landowner must have complete title to the land or take responsibility for pulling together all the owners that will need to be involved with establishing an easement.
3. Be open to working with district staff over a period of time to develop an easement document and to tour the property as needed to establish baseline conditions
4. Be selected by the district board as a property that the district is interested in developing and holding a conservation easement. Selection criteria include the following factors:
Natural Resource and Environmental Values
Soil Resources
Compatibility with Neighboring Land Uses
Parcel Size and continuity with other natural resource lands
Long term conservation history and landowner goals
Other Considerations
Proximity to UGB or other developments
Cost to protect land and potential future defense costs
Opportunity for public outreach
If you are interested in a conservation easement contact SWCD staff or a Director.