Stewardship is the
oversight of a conservation easement property, with the goal of
ensuring that the terms of the conservation easement are upheld and
that the resources are protected as the donor of the conservation
easement intended.
For a new
conservation easement, DLC prepares a “Baseline Documentation
Report” that documents the condition of the property at the time of
the recording of the conservation easement. The Baseline
Documentation includes photos, maps and a written analysis, which
provide a record of the property that can be used to monitor changes
to the land over time.
After a conservation
easement is filed, DLC has the legal obligation to monitor and
enforce the conservation easement in perpetuity. This is a
long-term obligation and DLC works to maintain good relationships
with conservation easement landowners to ensure that there is open
communication and that we are working as conservation partners.
To meet our
stewardship responsibilities, DLC provides notice to all
conservation easement landowners and conducts aerial monitoring of
the conservation easement properties in the winter when the leaves
are off the trees and the properties are more visible.
Additionally, once every three to four years on a rotating basis, we
ground monitor all conservation easement properties. Notice is given
to landowners and they are welcome to meet with DLC’s easement
monitors at their convenience and walk the property together.
DLC also tracks
changes in land ownership, maintains conservation easement records,
and works with owners of conserved land to answer any questions they
may have regarding the terms of their conservation easements.
If you are
interested in learning more about DLC’s stewardship program, please
contact us at (845) 677-3002.
This information does not constitute legal or tax advice and DLC
strongly recommends that you discuss your land conservation options
with legal and tax professionals.
