What is the role of conservation easements in conservation?

Conservation And Protected Areas Questions



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What is the role of conservation easements in conservation?

Conservation easements play a crucial role in conservation by legally protecting and preserving land and natural resources. They are voluntary agreements between landowners and conservation organizations or government agencies, where the landowner agrees to limit certain uses or development on their property to protect its conservation values. These easements can restrict activities such as commercial development, subdivision, or intensive agriculture, while allowing for sustainable land uses like agriculture, forestry, or recreation. By permanently or long-term protecting land through conservation easements, they help maintain biodiversity, protect wildlife habitats, preserve scenic landscapes, and safeguard water quality and other ecosystem services.