BY: Jaime Jovanovich-WAlker
Recently, we heard from many of you about your concern over the sale of the Fosberg Farm. Would the protections on the land still remain, even after Maynard Fosberg’s passing? Could the next owner get rid of the conservation easement? Was everything Maynard and Margaret worked to conserve at risk? Let’s break down what happens when ownership of conserved land changes, and how we make good on the promise of perpetual conservation.
When we work with a family to create their conservation legacy, the permanent protection of the land is guaranteed through a legal framework known as a conservation easement (CE). What makes this type of easement so special is that it is tied to the deed of the land itself. That means that any successive land owner is also bound by the terms of the CE. This type of legal agreement also cannot be removed or extinguished (except under extraordinary circumstances).
The work doesn’t end there. When changes in ownership of conserved land happen, we’re there throughout the entire process. We work with real estate agents, current owners or their families, and future owners to ensure that there is a clear understanding of the vision for the land defined by the CE, and what it means to own property that is permanently conserved. No new owner enters into a purchase without being supplied with the tools and knowledge needed to be exceptional stewards of protected lands.
As an accredited land trust, PLT is proud to meet and exceed the highest levels of conservation excellence, sustainability, and permanency. The accreditation seal is a mark of distinction in land conservation. It is awarded to land trusts meeting the highest national standards for excellence and conservation permanence. Each accredited land trust completes a rigorous review process and joins a network of organizations united by strong ethical practices. This trusted network of land trusts has demonstrated fiscal accountability, strong organizational leadership, sound transactions and lasting stewardship of the lands they conserve.
You can rest assured that your investment in the lands and waters you love is safe and secure. No matter how conserved land ownership changes, or how staff changes at the land trust, we’re here for one reason: to help protect the very best of the Palouse and north central Idaho for today, tomorrow, and forever. We’re here for the long haul to support the conservation needs of the community, and to empower landowners to care for and champion the lands that mean so much to all of us.