Why Preserve Open Space?

Benefits of Conserving Land

Benefits for the public:

• Makes land available for both passive and active recreation.

• Reduces development and helps avoid future costs for expanded municipal services and infrastructure.

• Protects farmland and wildlife habitat.

• Helps maintain high quality streams and protects ground water resources.

• Protects scenic views.

• Open space is maintained by the landowner with no added cost to the township.​

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Benefits for Landowners:

• Easements permit you to control how the property will be used in perpetuity, no matter who the future owners are.

• Your wishes remain in force even when political leadership and zoning ordinances change in the township.

• Easements are tailored to your particular needs and wishes. You may continue to live on the eased property or you may sell it or pass it on to heirs.

• Placing a conservation easement on the property may have beneficial tax consequences, such as lower estate taxes or lower property taxes.

• Donating the easement may provide significant federal income tax benefits. Landowners are urged to consult professional tax advisors for more information on potential tax benefits of conservation easements.