Land trusts have several options to protect land. The decision regarding which approach to pursue depends on several factors, including the land trust’s plans for acquisition, the landowner’s interest, organizational capacity, funding availability, and the needs of the land itself.
Northeast Wisconsin Land Trust accepts donated conservation easements on land that meets our selection criteria. While the land remains in private ownership, the Land Trust becomes a partner in assuring that its conservation values remain intact and that development is limited to pre-determined areas. Conservation easements are permanent and remain with the property, no matter who owns it in the future.
For some land, NEWLT ownership is the best conservation option. Places with exceptional conservation value or those that are desirable for research and outdoor recreation are purchased, when possible, with grant funds and member financial support.
The Northeast Wisconsin Land Trust is a collaborative organization specializing in the complicated process of acquiring land for conservation purposes. We sometimes assist our partners with their conservation projects or procure land on their behalf and transfer ownership once the land is acquired.
The Land Trust is willing to accept donated lands provided they are suitable for its goals. However, the long-term stewardship of the land is a crucial factor that needs to be considered at the time of acquisition. Donations usually do not have a large enough financial gift to cover all future land management costs. Therefore, to ensure that the land is perpetually cared for, the Land Trust may need to place a permanent conservation easement on the property and release the land to private ownership.
Land that is unsuitable for conservation can be sold to support other local high-value conservation projects.
Northeast Wisconsin Land Trust partners with others to care for and restore natural lands.
