Conservation Easements:

“Conservation easements are voluntary agreements that limit the amount and type of development that can occur on a property in order to preserve its productive capacity and open character. Landowners continue to retain title to the property and all other rights of property ownership.

Although all conservation easements preclude development that would destroy the land’s value for ranching, the terms of each agreement are individually tailored to meet the concerns of the landowner and the unique features of the property. Conservation easements can be donated or sold and can be granted during the owner’s lifetime or through a bequest. The easement may be placed on an entire property or a portion of the property. Conservation easements typically are assigned in perpetuity. This means the agreement runs with the title, regardless of ownership, ensuring the land will be maintained as ranchland and open space for future generations.” Wyoming Stock Growers Agricultural Land Trusts

Extensive comprehensive

For more information please see the following sites:

The Nature Conservancy
Montana Land Reliance
The Land Trust Alliance
The Sonoram Institute
The American Farmland Trust
The Conservation Fund
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
Jackson Hole Land Trusts
Colorado Cattlemen's Agricultural Land Trusts