Over the past 40 years, tens of millions of acres of land have been conserved through the use of conservation easements. The law of conservation easements was developed for widespread use in the 1980s, and there are still some unsettled questions associated with this incredibly useful conservation tool.

Most state conservation easement law offers great flexibility for a land owner to convey development rights to a non-profit or government agency, but because many easements are donated, the federal tax law is equally important. The Conservation Law Center has been among the nation’s leaders in educating conservation organizations about the law of conservation easements, and in developing standards and advocating for improvement and clarity in the law.  

“CLC's support on a wide range of questions has been invaluable to Sycamore's successes with conservation projects for 15 years and counting, and we greatly appreciate Christian, Bill, and the CLC staff for their expertise and leadership.”
John Lawrence, Executive Director, Sycamore Land Trust

“When I need support during a difficult transaction, I call Christian and he gives me the sword and shield (aka counsel and confidence) I need to fight on for the land, water, and wildlife.”
Julie Borgmann, Executive Director, Red-tail Land Conservancy

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