Conservation Options for Your Land

Northcentral Pennsylvania is a special place, with open spaces, abundant natural resources, and a remarkable history.  As our region changes, it is important to maintain balance between growth and conservation. This requires thoughtful action to make sure future generations will have access to these precious natural resources. Landowners may face choices such as subdivision, gas development, and taxes, but Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) offers conservation options that can balance land conservation with financial goals.

About NPC

NPC is dedicated to conserving the lands and waters across a 12-county region. With support from members and donors, NPC works to enhance the environmental and recreational needs of local communities.

NPC offers three primary options for landowners who want to conserve their land:

• Conservation Easement
• Donation of Property
• Partnered Acquisition

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Conservation Easement

A Conservation Easement is a voluntary, legal agreement between a landowner and a land trust that permanently conserves a property while keeping it in private ownership. This ensures that specific uses, such as farming, forestry, and habitat improvement, are conserved. The easement is permanent and applies to future owners. 

FAQs About Conservation Easements

• What kind of property can be conserved? NPC works with the landowner to identify conservation values such as woods, wetlands, farmland, stream frontage, and scenic areas.
• Are there property size requirements?  No. There are not minimum or maximum size requirements. NPC evaluates each property individually.
• Does the easement require public access? No. Public access is optional and depends on the landowner’s preferences.
• How long does the process take? Typically, 6 months or more, depending on legal reviews and other factors.  

There are costs related to the donation of a conservation easement. NPC’s staff can assist you in determining what costs may apply to your situation. 

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Property Donation 

Donating property to NPC may be ideal for some landowners. NPC assesses the land’s conservation value and may either retain or sell the property.

If NPC retains ownership, the property may be managed for forest health, water quality, and possibly recreation. If NPC sells the property, it would be to a private individual or a public organization for public use. Sales, often subject to a conservation easement, fund further conservation efforts.

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Partnered Acquisition

In some cases, NPC can facilitate the transfer of property to a public organization, such as the Bureau of Forestry or the PA Game Commission. This may involve NPC acting as an interim owner.

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Landowners interested in conserving their property should consult with the appropriate legal and tax advisors. Although NPC will work with the landowner toward income tax savings, NPC cannot guarantee tax savings.